Ireland Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Short-stay ‘C’ visa for professional visits up to 90 days.
- Suitable for meetings, conferences, and contract negotiations.
- Available as single or multiple-entry depending on travel needs.
- Online application system followed by physical document submission.
- No sponsorship required, but host invitation is essential.
- Processing typically occurs at the nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate.
- Not valid for travel to the UK or the Schengen Area countries.
Processing time
4-8 weeks
Processing times vary significantly by the specific embassy and time of year. Summer and December are typically peak periods with longer waits.
Estimated cost
$65 - $150
- Single entry short-stay fee€60 (~$65)
- Multi-entry short-stay fee€100 (~$110)
- Biometric and service provider feesVaries
Requirements
- Evidence of a genuine business purpose for the visit.
- Proof that you will leave Ireland before your visa expires.
- Sufficient funds to cover the duration of your stay without recourse to public funds.
- A clean criminal record and immigration history.
- Proof of strong social or economic ties to your home country.
- The host company in Ireland must be legitimate and registered.
- Accommodation details for the entirety of your stay in Ireland.
- The applicant must not intend to transit to the UK via Ireland unless holding a separate UK visa.
Documents you'll need
- Current valid passport with at least 6 months validity after departure
- Two colour passport-sized photographs (signed on the back)
- Signed and dated summary application form from AVATS
- Formal letter of invitation from the host company in Ireland
- Letter from your current employer stating your role and purpose of visit
- Evidence of previous travel history (old passports) if applicable
- Detailed bank statements covering the last 6 months
- Proof of comprehensive medical travel insurance
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Complete the Online Application
Fill out the official online application form via the AVATS system, ensuring all details match your passport exactly.
- 2
Pay Application Fees
Pay the required visa fee through the method specified by your local Irish embassy or visa application centre.
- 3
Prepare Documentation
Gather all supporting documents, including the invitation letter and financial records, following the official checklist.
- 4
Sign the Summary Sheet
Print, sign, and date the application summary sheet generated by the online system.
- 5
Submit Physical Application
Submit your passport and documents to the designated Irish Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- 6
Await Decision
Monitor the status of your application online. You may be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview.
- 7
Collect Passport and Visa
If approved, check the visa foil in your passport for any errors regarding dates or name spelling.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure the invitation letter from the Irish host is on official letterhead and includes specific dates of travel.
- Provide original bank statements; printed internet summaries are often rejected if not stamped by the bank.
- Explain any gaps in your employment or previous visa refusals clearly in a cover letter.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your visa has been officially granted.
- Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for the visa sticker and entry stamps.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.