Entry rules to Ireland for Chinese citizens

If you are a citizen of China planning to visit Ireland for up to 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a short-stay C (tourist) visa. This visa is required for visits related to tourism, visiting family or friends, business meetings, short-term English courses, or medical treatments.

Ireland visa requirements for Chinese

To qualify for a short-term “C” visa, Chinese need to prove strong family, social, or economic ties to their home country. This assures Irish immigration authorities that their stay will be temporary. The visa officer may check any submitted documents.

The visa does not allow:

• Paid or unpaid work.
• Access to public services, like public hospitals.

Chinese citizens can start applying three months before their intended trip. Processing times range from 5 working days to 6 weeks. Visa fees are 60 euros for single entry and 100 euros for multiple entries, plus any additional service fees.

How to apply for an Ireland visa for Chinese citizens

Chinese need to apply for a visa through China or their country of legal residence, starting three months before travel. Follow these steps:

1. Fill out the online visa application: Choose “Short-term stay (C)” as your visa type, select single or multiple entry, and specify the reason for your trip (e.g., 'Visit Tourist' for leisure). Print and follow submission instructions based on your location.

2. Pay the visa fee: Payment options vary by issuing authority. Standard fees are:

- 60 euros for a single-entry short-term visa “C”.

- 100 euros for a multiple-entry short-term visa “C”. Additional consular fees may apply, but visa fees are non-refundable - if you withdraw or if the application is rejected.

3. Submit your passport and documents: You may also need to provide biometric data within 30 days of submitting your application through AVATS. Only original documents are accepted.

What documents are required to obtain a visa to Ireland for Chinese citizens

Chinese citizens need:

• A completed CV form (through AVATS).
• Passport or travel document.
• Two passport photos.
• Proof of fee payment or exemption.
• All previous passports.
• Biometric data (if required).

If living outside the country that issued your passport, include a copy of your residence permit, valid for at least three months post-travel.

Additional required documents:

• Evidence of past visa refusals, any immigration issues (like deportation), and criminal records.
• Insurance policy.
• Application letter with your contact details, visa application number, family details in Ireland, the reason for the trip, confirmation of leaving Ireland before the visa expires, and assurance that public services will not be used.

Financial and accommodation proof:

Provide six months of bank statements or sponsor documentation if someone else is covering your costs. Also, include proof of accommodation (e.g., reservation confirmations or information on staying with family or friends).

Visa requirements for Chinese citizens under 18

Parents or legal guardians must apply on behalf of minors, with additional documentation as required. If certain documents are unavailable, provide a written explanation. Documents must be original and include official contact details. Translations should be certified in English or Irish, and an insurance policy with at least 30,000 euros coverage is recommended.

Letters from companies, universities, schools, colleges, etc. must be official and contain the following information:

• Full name of the organization;
• Postal address;
• Phone number;
• Website address;
• Email address (Yahoo and Hotmail email addresses are not accepted);
• Name and position of the contact person;
• Written signature of the authorized representative (electronic signature is not accepted);.

How do I apply for a visa to Ireland from China?

Prepare your documents, place them in a secure envelope, and send them to the application office. For multiple applicants, place each person’s documents in individual envelopes within a larger one, labeling each with the applicant's name and application number.

How long does it take to make a decision?

Processing times vary by embassy and visa center. Contact the processing office directly for current waiting times, or check online at the Dublin Visa Center.

Your initial visa is typically for single entry. Children under 16 leaving and returning shortly may apply for a re-entry visa. Holders of a valid Irish Residence Permit (IRP) don’t need a re-entry visa.

Visit the official Irish visa application website for further details