Ireland Visa for South African Citizens2026 Requirements, Fees & Documents
South African passport holders need a visa to enter Ireland. Apply at a Ireland embassy or consulate, or the official visa portal, before travelling.
How South African citizens apply for a Ireland visa
- → Apply for a visa at the Ireland embassy/consulate or official visa application centre before travelling.
- → See the exact document checklist for South African applicants, by visa type.
- → Confirm the latest rules on the destination's official government page before you book.
Ireland visa cost for South African citizens
Short stay 'C' visa - single journey (tourist/visit)
EUR 0
Short stay 'C' visa - multi journey
EUR 0
Nationals of these countries are exempt from the visa application fee (fee waiver agreements). Note some (e.g. Brazil, Argentina, Chile) are visa-exempt for short stays anyway; the waiver matters for long-stay/D visas. Qualifying family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens under Dir…
Applications are handled via VFS Global - service fee approx. INR 3380, varies by centre.
Fees checked 2026-07-02 · always confirm on the official source
Documents required for South African applicants
The exact documents South African citizens must submit for Ireland, by visa type, from the official visa application centre.
otherPreclearance – Volunteer
- Applicants are advised to refer to the Immigration Service Delivery website where they will find a detailed document guide for each visa category: Home - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/) - The onus rests on the applicant to ensure they have submitted the required documents for the visa category they have applied for. - All documents must be in English, or be accompanied by an official translation. - Original application form duly completed, dated and signed: (Mandatory) Passport(s) & Residency Permission: (Mandatory) - Original passport which must contain 2 empty visa pages with validity as outlined below: - C category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to leave Ireland. - D category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months. - Copy of your bio page, all visa and immigration stamps on all pages. - Evidence that you have permission to reside in the country from which you are applying, along with photocopy of the front and back of residency card/ sticker, if applicable. Must be valid for a minimum of 3 months from the date of return from Ireland. - Recent passport photographs showing full face on a clear white background not older than 3 months which conforms to the requirements detailed here: Photograph rules for visa applications - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) For children under 18 years old, the following documents must be provided: (Mandatory) - A copy of the child’s passport and Birth Certificate. - A copy of both parents/legal guardians’ passports and other official identity document containing their signatures. - A letter of signed consent from parents/legal guardians allowing the child to travel to Ireland if travelling unaccompanied, if applicable. - A letter of signed consent from the other parent/legal guardian allowing the child to travel to Ireland where only one parent/legal guardian is travelling, if applicable. For full details on the requirements for minors travelling, please see: visa requirements when travelling with children under 18 - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/additional-visa-requirements-when-travelling-with-children-under-18/) Finances: (Mandatory) Evidence of sufficient funds for proposed trip must be submitted. - Bank statement(s) for the last six months. - Employment letter and Salary Certificate (dated within the 4 week period immediately prior to your application date). - Bank statement(s) from your sponsor for the last six months, if applicable. Tourism: - Detailed application letter and travel itinerary. - Accommodation booking reservation(s) for the duration of stay. - Note: Travel & medical insurance is only required if you are granted a visa. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a tourist visa: How to apply for a short stay ‘C’ visit (tourist) visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/) Visiting Family and/or Friends: - Detailed application letter. - Invitation letter from the reference/host in Ireland. - Copy of passport and/or IRP card (front and back) from reference in Ireland and evidence of link to reference. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a visit family/friend visa: Visit family/friend visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/visit-family-friend-visa/) Business, Conference or Company Training: - Letter from applicant’s employer stating applicant is travelling to Ireland on business / conference / training on behalf of the company and who will finance the trip. - Invitation letter from the host company in Ireland. Please see the following link for business visa options and a full document guide: Visa options for working in Ireland for less than 90 days - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/visa-options-for-working-in-ireland-for-less-than-90-days/) Study: - Letter of acceptance (unconditional) from school / college in Ireland stating course fees and if they have been paid. (minimum €6000, or fully paid for course fees below this amount). - Receipt of payment from the school/college. - Letter of support from your sponsor including evidence of familial link, if applicable. - Six month durational bank statements and /or evidence of funds to finance first year of study and a completed Summary Statement of Finances Form. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a study visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-long-term-study-visa/) Attending an Exam: - Letter from exam authority confirming the applicant is due to sit an exam, the details and dates of the exam and confirmation that full fees have been paid. Please see the following link for a full document guide for an exam visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-less-than-90-days/exam-visa/) Employment: - Full copy of valid work permit and signed contract for the intended employment in Ireland. - Evidence of relevant qualifications / experience for the intended role in Ireland. - A signed letter from your employer in Ireland confirming details of your position and salary to be paid. If your employer is to provide you with accommodation, details of this should also be included. The letter must be on headed paper with the company’s contact and registration details. Please see the following link for employment visa options and a full document guide: Applying for a long stay employment visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/applying-for-a-long-stay-employment-visa/) Joining Family in Ireland: - Original and translated copies of Marriage and Birth certificates. Please see the following link for join family visa options and a full document guide: Coming to join family in Ireland - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-join-family-in-ireland/) Volunteer/ Minister of Religion: (Mandatory) - A copy of your preclearance letter issued by Immigration Service Delivery. Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a Minister of Religion visa and a full document guide: Minister of Religion - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/minister-of-religion/) Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a volunteer visa and a full document guide: Volunteer - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/volunteer/) Note: The provision of all the documentation listed in no way guarantees that a visa will be granted.
otherJoin Ship
- Applicants are advised to refer to the Immigration Service Delivery website where they will find a detailed document guide for each visa category: Home - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/) - The onus rests on the applicant to ensure they have submitted the required documents for the visa category they have applied for. - All documents must be in English, or be accompanied by an official translation. - Original application form duly completed, dated and signed: (Mandatory) Passport(s) & Residency Permission: (Mandatory) - Original passport which must contain 2 empty visa pages with validity as outlined below: - C category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to leave Ireland. - D category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months. - Copy of your bio page, all visa and immigration stamps on all pages. - Evidence that you have permission to reside in the country from which you are applying, along with photocopy of the front and back of residency card/ sticker, if applicable. Must be valid for a minimum of 3 months from the date of return from Ireland. - Recent passport photographs showing full face on a clear white background not older than 3 months which conforms to the requirements detailed here: Photograph rules for visa applications - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) For children under 18 years old, the following documents must be provided: (Mandatory) - A copy of the child’s passport and Birth Certificate. - A copy of both parents/legal guardians’ passports and other official identity document containing their signatures. - A letter of signed consent from parents/legal guardians allowing the child to travel to Ireland if travelling unaccompanied, if applicable. - A letter of signed consent from the other parent/legal guardian allowing the child to travel to Ireland where only one parent/legal guardian is travelling, if applicable. For full details on the requirements for minors travelling, please see: visa requirements when travelling with children under 18 - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/additional-visa-requirements-when-travelling-with-children-under-18/) Finances: (Mandatory) Evidence of sufficient funds for proposed trip must be submitted. - Bank statement(s) for the last six months. - Employment letter and Salary Certificate (dated within the 4 week period immediately prior to your application date). - Bank statement(s) from your sponsor for the last six months, if applicable. Tourism: - Detailed application letter and travel itinerary. - Accommodation booking reservation(s) for the duration of stay. - Note: Travel & medical insurance is only required if you are granted a visa. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a tourist visa: How to apply for a short stay ‘C’ visit (tourist) visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/) Visiting Family and/or Friends: - Detailed application letter. - Invitation letter from the reference/host in Ireland. - Copy of passport and/or IRP card (front and back) from reference in Ireland and evidence of link to reference. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a visit family/friend visa: Visit family/friend visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/visit-family-friend-visa/) Business, Conference or Company Training: - Letter from applicant’s employer stating applicant is travelling to Ireland on business / conference / training on behalf of the company and who will finance the trip. - Invitation letter from the host company in Ireland. Please see the following link for business visa options and a full document guide: Visa options for working in Ireland for less than 90 days - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/visa-options-for-working-in-ireland-for-less-than-90-days/) Study: - Letter of acceptance (unconditional) from school / college in Ireland stating course fees and if they have been paid. (minimum €6000, or fully paid for course fees below this amount). - Receipt of payment from the school/college. - Letter of support from your sponsor including evidence of familial link, if applicable. - Six month durational bank statements and /or evidence of funds to finance first year of study and a completed Summary Statement of Finances Form. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a study visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-long-term-study-visa/) Attending an Exam: - Letter from exam authority confirming the applicant is due to sit an exam, the details and dates of the exam and confirmation that full fees have been paid. Please see the following link for a full document guide for an exam visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-less-than-90-days/exam-visa/) Employment: - Full copy of valid work permit and signed contract for the intended employment in Ireland. - Evidence of relevant qualifications / experience for the intended role in Ireland. - A signed letter from your employer in Ireland confirming details of your position and salary to be paid. If your employer is to provide you with accommodation, details of this should also be included. The letter must be on headed paper with the company’s contact and registration details. Please see the following link for employment visa options and a full document guide: Applying for a long stay employment visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/applying-for-a-long-stay-employment-visa/) Joining Family in Ireland: - Original and translated copies of Marriage and Birth certificates. Please see the following link for join family visa options and a full document guide: Coming to join family in Ireland - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-join-family-in-ireland/) Volunteer/ Minister of Religion: (Mandatory) - A copy of your preclearance letter issued by Immigration Service Delivery. Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a Minister of Religion visa and a full document guide: Minister of Religion - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/minister-of-religion/) Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a volunteer visa and a full document guide: Volunteer - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/volunteer/) Note: The provision of all the documentation listed in no way guarantees that a visa will be granted.
businessConference/Event
Original documents should be submitted. Where these are not in English they should be accompanied by a notarized translation. All documents must be clear and legible. ALL documentation listed must be submitted with your application form. Details of Photocopies to be added along with the application form: - Customers are to bring an additional set of documents. Three (3) sets of documents; that is Original and Two (2) set of copies. - Photocopied in colour and clearly legible. Customers need to bring colour copies of Visa Application Form, all supporting documents, Passport Bio Data Page and pages that have valid and expired visas. Additional charges will apply for colour photocopies at the Visa Application Center. Applications submitted that do not include all the required documentation, or are accompanied by poor quality, illegible or non-translated documents, will be refused. The visa officer may request further information from you before making a decision. However, you will not be contacted if you submit an incomplete or unsigned application and do not abide by these requirements - your application will be refused. MINIMUM DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED WITH ALL VISA APPLICATIONS - Your application form should be fully completed. No question should be left blank. - You must sign the form yourself - nobody can sign it on your behalf. (Except in the case of a child under 16, whereby the parent(s) may sign on behalf of child). - From 27 November 2008, a separate visa will be required by all dependents, even if they are included on your passport. Therefore a visa application needs to be completed for each person wishing to travel to Ireland. A visa processing fee is payable for each application. - UNSIGNED APPLICATIONS WILL BE REFUSED - Where a child under the age of 18 is traveling alone, the consent of both parents/guardians is required. If the child is traveling with one parent, the consent of the other parent is required. Where only one parent has total custody and access rights, official evidence of this must be provided. - ALL DOCUMENTS SUBMITTED MUST BE IN ENGLISH - Where they are in any other language, the original document should be submitted, along with a notarized translation of same. Failure to provide translated documents will lead to your application being refused. - At the time of your visa application you must possess a passport which is valid for 6 months after the date you propose to leave Ireland. Applications submitted without such a passport cannot be considered. - For applications for long-term stays such as employment, study, or joining your spouse, it is advisable that your passport should be valid for at least 12 months. If you are permitted to remain in Ireland for more than 3 months you must register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. The charge for registration is €150 each time. You will not be registered beyond the date of expiry of your passport. It is therefore in your own interest to have a passport which is valid for at least 12 months. - If your passport is relatively new, it may assist your application if you provide your previous passport showing any previous visas for any other country, and your previous travel history. - All visa applicants must be able to show evidence that they can support themselves for the duration of their stay in Ireland without recourse to public funds or resources. - A detailed bank statement, showing sufficient funds, and covering the immediate 6 month period prior to submitting a visa application should be submitted. Lump sum lodgments made in the run up to an application being made are not taken into consideration when assessing a person's ability to support themselves - For all categories of visa applications it will be necessary to include details of any other family members presently in Ireland, or any other EU State - Details of any previous visa applications for Ireland made by you MUST be given - If you have been refused a visa for any other country, details of this, preferably the original letter issued to you by the authorities of that country, should be submitted. Concealment of any other visa refusals will result in your Irish visa application being refused. Below please find a list of documents required under the various categories of visas, bearing in mind that the above requirements apply to each of these categories also. Please ensure ALL documentation listed under the relevant category is included with your application. Failure to include all listed documentation will result in the refusal of your application. The provision of false, fraudulent or misleading information will result in refusal and no appeal will be permitted. Note: The provision of all the documentation listed in no way guarantees that a visa will be granted.
medicalMedical Treatment
- Applicants are advised to refer to the Immigration Service Delivery website where they will find a detailed document guide for each visa category: Home - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/) - The onus rests on the applicant to ensure they have submitted the required documents for the visa category they have applied for. - All documents must be in English, or be accompanied by an official translation. - Original application form duly completed, dated and signed: (Mandatory) Passport(s) & Residency Permission: (Mandatory) - Original passport which must contain 2 empty visa pages with validity as outlined below: - C category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to leave Ireland. - D category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months. - Copy of your bio page, all visa and immigration stamps on all pages. - Evidence that you have permission to reside in the country from which you are applying, along with photocopy of the front and back of residency card/ sticker, if applicable. Must be valid for a minimum of 3 months from the date of return from Ireland. - Recent passport photographs showing full face on a clear white background not older than 3 months which conforms to the requirements detailed here: Photograph rules for visa applications - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) For children under 18 years old, the following documents must be provided: (Mandatory) - A copy of the child’s passport and Birth Certificate. - A copy of both parents/legal guardians’ passports and other official identity document containing their signatures. - A letter of signed consent from parents/legal guardians allowing the child to travel to Ireland if travelling unaccompanied, if applicable. - A letter of signed consent from the other parent/legal guardian allowing the child to travel to Ireland where only one parent/legal guardian is travelling, if applicable. For full details on the requirements for minors travelling, please see: visa requirements when travelling with children under 18 - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/additional-visa-requirements-when-travelling-with-children-under-18/) Finances: (Mandatory) Evidence of sufficient funds for proposed trip must be submitted. - Bank statement(s) for the last six months. - Employment letter and Salary Certificate (dated within the 4 week period immediately prior to your application date). - Bank statement(s) from your sponsor for the last six months, if applicable. Tourism: - Detailed application letter and travel itinerary. - Accommodation booking reservation(s) for the duration of stay. - Note: Travel & medical insurance is only required if you are granted a visa. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a tourist visa: How to apply for a short stay ‘C’ visit (tourist) visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/) Visiting Family and/or Friends: - Detailed application letter. - Invitation letter from the reference/host in Ireland. - Copy of passport and/or IRP card (front and back) from reference in Ireland and evidence of link to reference. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a visit family/friend visa: Visit family/friend visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/visit-family-friend-visa/) Business, Conference or Company Training: - Letter from applicant’s employer stating applicant is travelling to Ireland on business / conference / training on behalf of the company and who will finance the trip. - Invitation letter from the host company in Ireland. Please see the following link for business visa options and a full document guide: Visa options for working in Ireland for less than 90 days - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/visa-options-for-working-in-ireland-for-less-than-90-days/) Study: - Letter of acceptance (unconditional) from school / college in Ireland stating course fees and if they have been paid. (minimum €6000, or fully paid for course fees below this amount). - Receipt of payment from the school/college. - Letter of support from your sponsor including evidence of familial link, if applicable. - Six month durational bank statements and /or evidence of funds to finance first year of study and a completed Summary Statement of Finances Form. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a study visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-long-term-study-visa/) Attending an Exam: - Letter from exam authority confirming the applicant is due to sit an exam, the details and dates of the exam and confirmation that full fees have been paid. Please see the following link for a full document guide for an exam visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-less-than-90-days/exam-visa/) Employment: - Full copy of valid work permit and signed contract for the intended employment in Ireland. - Evidence of relevant qualifications / experience for the intended role in Ireland. - A signed letter from your employer in Ireland confirming details of your position and salary to be paid. If your employer is to provide you with accommodation, details of this should also be included. The letter must be on headed paper with the company’s contact and registration details. Please see the following link for employment visa options and a full document guide: Applying for a long stay employment visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/applying-for-a-long-stay-employment-visa/) Joining Family in Ireland: - Original and translated copies of Marriage and Birth certificates. Please see the following link for join family visa options and a full document guide: Coming to join family in Ireland - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-join-family-in-ireland/) Volunteer/ Minister of Religion: (Mandatory) - A copy of your preclearance letter issued by Immigration Service Delivery. Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a Minister of Religion visa and a full document guide: Minister of Religion - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/minister-of-religion/) Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a volunteer visa and a full document guide: Volunteer - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/volunteer/) Note: The provision of all the documentation listed in no way guarantees that a visa will be granted.
familyPreclearance – Join Family (de facto partner SCEP/HA)
- Applicants are advised to refer to the Immigration Service Delivery website where they will find a detailed document guide for each visa category: Home - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/) - The onus rests on the applicant to ensure they have submitted the required documents for the visa category they have applied for. - All documents must be in English, or be accompanied by an official translation. - Original application form duly completed, dated and signed: (Mandatory) Passport(s) & Residency Permission: (Mandatory) - Original passport which must contain 2 empty visa pages with validity as outlined below: - C category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to leave Ireland. - D category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months. - Copy of your bio page, all visa and immigration stamps on all pages. - Evidence that you have permission to reside in the country from which you are applying, along with photocopy of the front and back of residency card/ sticker, if applicable. Must be valid for a minimum of 3 months from the date of return from Ireland. - Recent passport photographs showing full face on a clear white background not older than 3 months which conforms to the requirements detailed here: Photograph rules for visa applications - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) For children under 18 years old, the following documents must be provided: (Mandatory) - A copy of the child’s passport and Birth Certificate. - A copy of both parents/legal guardians’ passports and other official identity document containing their signatures. - A letter of signed consent from parents/legal guardians allowing the child to travel to Ireland if travelling unaccompanied, if applicable. - A letter of signed consent from the other parent/legal guardian allowing the child to travel to Ireland where only one parent/legal guardian is travelling, if applicable. For full details on the requirements for minors travelling, please see: visa requirements when travelling with children under 18 - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/additional-visa-requirements-when-travelling-with-children-under-18/) Finances: (Mandatory) Evidence of sufficient funds for proposed trip must be submitted. - Bank statement(s) for the last six months. - Employment letter and Salary Certificate (dated within the 4 week period immediately prior to your application date). - Bank statement(s) from your sponsor for the last six months, if applicable. Tourism: - Detailed application letter and travel itinerary. - Accommodation booking reservation(s) for the duration of stay. - Note: Travel & medical insurance is only required if you are granted a visa. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a tourist visa: How to apply for a short stay ‘C’ visit (tourist) visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/) Visiting Family and/or Friends: - Detailed application letter. - Invitation letter from the reference/host in Ireland. - Copy of passport and/or IRP card (front and back) from reference in Ireland and evidence of link to reference. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a visit family/friend visa: Visit family/friend visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/visit-family-friend-visa/) Business, Conference or Company Training: - Letter from applicant’s employer stating applicant is travelling to Ireland on business / conference / training on behalf of the company and who will finance the trip. - Invitation letter from the host company in Ireland. Please see the following link for business visa options and a full document guide: Visa options for working in Ireland for less than 90 days - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/visa-options-for-working-in-ireland-for-less-than-90-days/) Study: - Letter of acceptance (unconditional) from school / college in Ireland stating course fees and if they have been paid. (minimum €6000, or fully paid for course fees below this amount). - Receipt of payment from the school/college. - Letter of support from your sponsor including evidence of familial link, if applicable. - Six month durational bank statements and /or evidence of funds to finance first year of study and a completed Summary Statement of Finances Form. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a study visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-long-term-study-visa/) Attending an Exam: - Letter from exam authority confirming the applicant is due to sit an exam, the details and dates of the exam and confirmation that full fees have been paid. Please see the following link for a full document guide for an exam visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-less-than-90-days/exam-visa/) Employment: - Full copy of valid work permit and signed contract for the intended employment in Ireland. - Evidence of relevant qualifications / experience for the intended role in Ireland. - A signed letter from your employer in Ireland confirming details of your position and salary to be paid. If your employer is to provide you with accommodation, details of this should also be included. The letter must be on headed paper with the company’s contact and registration details. Please see the following link for employment visa options and a full document guide: Applying for a long stay employment visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/applying-for-a-long-stay-employment-visa/) Joining Family in Ireland: - Original and translated copies of Marriage and Birth certificates. Please see the following link for join family visa options and a full document guide: Coming to join family in Ireland - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-join-family-in-ireland/) Volunteer/ Minister of Religion: (Mandatory) - A copy of your preclearance letter issued by Immigration Service Delivery. Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a Minister of Religion visa and a full document guide: Minister of Religion - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/minister-of-religion/) Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a volunteer visa and a full document guide: Volunteer - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/volunteer/) Note: The provision of all the documentation listed in no way guarantees that a visa will be granted.
otherOther
- Applicants are advised to refer to the Immigration Service Delivery website where they will find a detailed document guide for each visa category: Home - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/) - The onus rests on the applicant to ensure they have submitted the required documents for the visa category they have applied for. - All documents must be in English, or be accompanied by an official translation. - Original application form duly completed, dated and signed: (Mandatory) Passport(s) & Residency Permission: (Mandatory) - Original passport which must contain 2 empty visa pages with validity as outlined below: - C category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to leave Ireland. - D category visas - must be valid for at least 6 months. - Copy of your bio page, all visa and immigration stamps on all pages. - Evidence that you have permission to reside in the country from which you are applying, along with photocopy of the front and back of residency card/ sticker, if applicable. Must be valid for a minimum of 3 months from the date of return from Ireland. - Recent passport photographs showing full face on a clear white background not older than 3 months which conforms to the requirements detailed here: Photograph rules for visa applications - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) For children under 18 years old, the following documents must be provided: (Mandatory) - A copy of the child’s passport and Birth Certificate. - A copy of both parents/legal guardians’ passports and other official identity document containing their signatures. - A letter of signed consent from parents/legal guardians allowing the child to travel to Ireland if travelling unaccompanied, if applicable. - A letter of signed consent from the other parent/legal guardian allowing the child to travel to Ireland where only one parent/legal guardian is travelling, if applicable. For full details on the requirements for minors travelling, please see: visa requirements when travelling with children under 18 - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/additional-visa-requirements-when-travelling-with-children-under-18/) Finances: (Mandatory) Evidence of sufficient funds for proposed trip must be submitted. - Bank statement(s) for the last six months. - Employment letter and Salary Certificate (dated within the 4 week period immediately prior to your application date). - Bank statement(s) from your sponsor for the last six months, if applicable. Tourism: - Detailed application letter and travel itinerary. - Accommodation booking reservation(s) for the duration of stay. - Note: Travel & medical insurance is only required if you are granted a visa. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a tourist visa: How to apply for a short stay ‘C’ visit (tourist) visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/) Visiting Family and/or Friends: - Detailed application letter. - Invitation letter from the reference/host in Ireland. - Copy of passport and/or IRP card (front and back) from reference in Ireland and evidence of link to reference. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a visit family/friend visa: Visit family/friend visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-visit-ireland/how-to-apply-for-a-short-stay-c-visit-tourist-visa/visit-family-friend-visa/) Business, Conference or Company Training: - Letter from applicant’s employer stating applicant is travelling to Ireland on business / conference / training on behalf of the company and who will finance the trip. - Invitation letter from the host company in Ireland. Please see the following link for business visa options and a full document guide: Visa options for working in Ireland for less than 90 days - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/visa-options-for-working-in-ireland-for-less-than-90-days/) Study: - Letter of acceptance (unconditional) from school / college in Ireland stating course fees and if they have been paid. (minimum €6000, or fully paid for course fees below this amount). - Receipt of payment from the school/college. - Letter of support from your sponsor including evidence of familial link, if applicable. - Six month durational bank statements and /or evidence of funds to finance first year of study and a completed Summary Statement of Finances Form. Please see the following link for a full document guide for a study visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-long-term-study-visa/) Attending an Exam: - Letter from exam authority confirming the applicant is due to sit an exam, the details and dates of the exam and confirmation that full fees have been paid. Please see the following link for a full document guide for an exam visa: How to apply for long term study visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-less-than-90-days/exam-visa/) Employment: - Full copy of valid work permit and signed contract for the intended employment in Ireland. - Evidence of relevant qualifications / experience for the intended role in Ireland. - A signed letter from your employer in Ireland confirming details of your position and salary to be paid. If your employer is to provide you with accommodation, details of this should also be included. The letter must be on headed paper with the company’s contact and registration details. Please see the following link for employment visa options and a full document guide: Applying for a long stay employment visa - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-work-visa-options/applying-for-a-long-stay-employment-visa/) Joining Family in Ireland: - Original and translated copies of Marriage and Birth certificates. Please see the following link for join family visa options and a full document guide: Coming to join family in Ireland - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-join-family-in-ireland/) Volunteer/ Minister of Religion: (Mandatory) - A copy of your preclearance letter issued by Immigration Service Delivery. Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a Minister of Religion visa and a full document guide: Minister of Religion - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/minister-of-religion/) Please see the following link for information on the preclearance process for a volunteer visa and a full document guide: Volunteer - Immigration Service Delivery (irishimmigration.ie) (https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-work-in-ireland/what-are-my-options-for-working-in-ireland/coming-to-work-for-more-than-90-days/volunteer/) Note: The provision of all the documentation listed in no way guarantees that a visa will be granted.
Ireland visa for South Africa citizens — FAQ
Do South African citizens need a visa for Ireland?
South African passport holders need a visa to enter Ireland. Apply at a Ireland embassy or consulate, or the official visa portal, before travelling.
What documents do South African citizens need for Ireland?
A valid passport plus the Ireland document checklist for your visa type — Earth Visa lists the full required documents per visa category from the official visa application centre.
How much does the Ireland visa cost for South African citizens?
The Ireland visa fee is EUR 0 for South African citizens under Ireland's nationality-based fee schedule. Applications through VFS Global carry an additional service fee of about INR 3380. Fees change - confirm on the official source before applying.
Related visa requirements
For South African citizens