Visa Requirements for Nigerians Travelling to Ireland
Key highlights
- Mandatory visa required for all Nigerian passport holders seeking entry to Ireland.
- Online application via the AVATS system is the first compulsory step.
- Short-stay 'C' visas permit a maximum stay of up to 90 days.
- Biometric data collection is required at a VFS Global centre in Lagos or Abuja.
- Strong evidence of 'intent to return' to Nigeria is critical for approval.
- Processing times can be lengthy, often exceeding 8 weeks during peak periods.
- No visa-free transit or waiver schemes currently apply to Nigerian citizens.
Processing time
8 - 12 weeks
Processing times can fluctuate significantly based on the season and the complexity of your case. Always apply at least 3 months before your planned travel date.
Estimated cost
~$100 - $150 (excluding biometrics)
- Single Entry Visa Fee€60 (~$65)
- Multi-Entry Visa Fee (if applicable)€100 (~$108)
- VFS Global Service ChargeVaries by location
Requirements
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover the entire duration of the stay without working.
- A valid Nigerian passport with at least two blank pages.
- A detailed letter of application explaining the purpose of the visit.
- Confirmed accommodation details or a letter of invitation from a host in Ireland.
- Full travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Evidence of employment or business ownership in Nigeria.
- Proof of family ties in Nigeria (e.g., marriage certificate, children's birth certificates).
- Detailed breakdown of any previous visa refusals from any country.
- The applicant must not have any criminal convictions.
- Payment of the correct visa fee and VFS service charge.
Documents you'll need
- Current Nigerian Passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
- Two colour passport-sized photographs (signed on the back)
- Original Bank Statements for the last 6 months
- Signed Application Summary Sheet from AVATS (online application)
- Letter of invitation or detailed travel itinerary
- Evidence of Ties to Nigeria (employment letter, property deeds, or family records)
- Private medical insurance cover for the duration of the stay
- Previous passports showing travel history (if available)
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Complete the AVATS Online Form
Fill out the official Irish Online Visa Application (AVATS). Save your transaction number for tracking.
- 2
Pay Application Fees
Pay the visa application fee as instructed during the online process or at the application centre.
- 3
Print Summary Sheet
Print and sign the Application Summary Sheet generated by the online system.
- 4
Schedule VFS Appointment
Book an appointment at a VFS Global centre in Abuja or Lagos to submit your documents and provide biometrics.
- 5
Prepare Document Folder
Gather all original documents, including bank statements, employment letters, and your passport.
- 6
Attend Submission Centre
Attend your appointment to submit your physical application and have your fingerprints and photo taken.
- 7
Wait for Processing
Your application is forwarded to the Irish Embassy in Abuja or the Dublin visa office for assessment.
- 8
Passport Collection
Once a decision is made, you will be notified to collect your passport and documents from the VFS centre.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Provide 6 months of bank statements instead of the minimum 3 to show financial consistency.
- Ensure every document in a local language is accompanied by a certified English translation.
- Be honest about previous visa denials; the Irish embassy shares data with the UK and other nations.
- Write a personalized cover letter that clearly outlines your itinerary and reasons for returning to Nigeria.
- If staying with a host, ensure they provide a 'Letter of Undertaking' and proof of their own residency/funds.
- Avoid booking non-refundable flights until your visa has been approved and issued.
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.