Visa Information
Before arrival
The information below is valid at the time of printing. Up-to-date information on applying for a student visa is available at www.inis.gov.ie and we strongly advise you check this website regularly.
Who needs a Visa?
Nationals of all countries not mentioned on Appendix 1 at the end of the handbook will require a student visa prior to seeking entry to Ireland. For example, if you are a citizen of China or Saudi Arabia you will need to apply for a student visa before arrival in Ireland. Information on how to apply for your student visa can be found on www.inis.gov.ie
You will also need to register in person with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) once you arrive in Ireland.
Students who are nationals of visa-required countries should also note that Ireland is not a member of the Schengen Agreement. Therefore students who have obtained a visa for a Schengen country will need to apply for a separate visa for Ireland.
Nationals of all countries listed in here do not require a visa prior to seeking entry to Ireland. For example, if you are a citizen of Australia, Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, or USA, you do not need to apply for a student visa before arrival in Ireland. You will, however, be required to complete immigration formalities with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) once you have completed registration in BCT Institute.
All students are advised to carry proof of acceptance to BCT Institute in their hand luggage. Immigration authorities may ask to see it upon arrival in Ireland.
Your first point for visa information should be the Embassy with jurisdiction of your country or www.inis.gov.ie. However, should you encounter any problems with your visa application, please let the International Student Adviser, know as quickly as possible and she will advise you.
International student adviser
International Office
39 Parnell Square West, Dublin 1, Ireland.
Tel: +353 (1) 872 6000
email: info@bct.ie
Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
13-14 Burgh Quay Dublin 2, Ireland
tel:+353 1 616 7700
Web: www.inis.gov.ie
After Arrival: Registration with Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB)
Citizens from eU/eea and switzerland
It is not necessary to register with the immigration authorities.
All other students
All non-Irish nationals who are not citizens of the EU/EEA or Switzerland, must register in person with the
Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) after arrival and after completion of registration at BCT. The
GNIB will issue you with a residence permit/GNIB card. The fee for this card is €150 and must be paid
by credit card, laser card or bank giro. This fee cannot be paid by cash.
Garda national immigration Bureau
13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland
Tel: +353 1 666 9130/01
Openings hours:
Mon. to Thurs.: 8.00am – 10.00pm
Friday: 8.00am – 4.00pm
| REQUIRED FOR GARDA NATIONAL IMMIGRATION BUREAU | |
1. |
Valid passport. |
2. |
Evidence of financial support, e.g. current bank statement showing your name, a letter of guarantee from a parent or guardian indicating availability of sufficient funds to sustain you for the duration of your stay in Ireland. |
3. |
A letter that is sent from BCT Institute indicating your student status, start date and the duration of your course at BCT. |
4. |
Evidence of private health insurance* |
5. |
€150. This must be paid by credit card, laser card or bank giro. This fee cannot be paid by cash. |
*From January 2011 the requirement for private health insurance is being strictly
enforced by the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
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