The Ireland student visa process has two stages. First, you apply for a D Study Visa to enter Ireland. Second, after arriving, you register with local immigration and receive a Stamp 2 endorsement on your Irish Residence Permit (IRP). The Stamp 2 is what allows you to study, work part-time, and remain in Ireland for the duration of your program.
The process is straightforward once you understand the requirements, but there are specific rules — particularly around the ILEP list and financial proof — that you must get right. This guide walks you through every step from application to arrival.
For a broader overview, start with our complete guide to studying in Ireland from Nepal.
What Is the ILEP List?
The Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)is the Irish Government's approved list of courses that qualify for a student visa. Only students enrolled in ILEP-listed programs receive the Stamp 2 endorsement. Before applying to any Irish institution, verify that your specific course is on the ILEP list.
All programs at Ireland's 7 universities (TCD, UCD, University of Galway, UCC, DCU, Maynooth, University of Limerick) are ILEP-listed. Most programs at Technological Universities and Institutes of Technology are also listed.
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
Step 1: Secure Your ILEP Offer
Apply to an Irish institution and receive a confirmed offer for an ILEP-listed course. You will need this offer letter as the foundation of your visa application. Most Irish universities have online application portals and accept direct applications from Nepali students.
Step 2: Pay Tuition Deposit
Most Irish institutions require a tuition deposit (typically EUR 3,000-5,000) before issuing the documents needed for your visa. Some may require full first-year tuition payment. Keep all payment receipts.
Step 3: Prepare Financial Proof
Ireland requires evidence of immediate access to minimum EUR 10,000 per year for living expenses, plus course fees paid or proof of ability to pay. At the current exchange rate of approximately NPR 150 per EUR:
- Living expenses: EUR 10,000 = approximately NPR 15 Lakh
- Tuition: EUR 15,000-31,000 = approximately NPR 22.5-46.5 Lakh
- Total first-year proof: Approximately NPR 37.5-61.5 Lakh
Acceptable financial evidence includes bank statements, scholarship letters, loan approval letters, or sponsor declarations with supporting financial documents.
Step 4: Apply Online Through AVATS
Submit your D Study Visa application through the AVATS (online visa application) system. You will need to upload:
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months beyond your course end date)
- Offer letter from ILEP-listed institution
- Evidence of tuition payment
- Financial proof (EUR 10,000 + fees)
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- English proficiency results (IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Private medical insurance
- Letter explaining why you chose Ireland and your study plan
Step 5: VFS Centre Appointment
After completing the online application, book an appointment at the VFS Centre in Kathmandu. You will provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) and submit your passport. The VFS Centre forwards your application to the Irish Immigration Service.
Step 6: Await Decision
Processing takes 4-8 weeks. You can track your application status online. If approved, your passport is returned with the D Study Visa stamp. This visa allows you to enter Ireland.
Step 7: Register for Stamp 2 Upon Arrival
After arriving in Ireland, you must register with your local immigration office within 90 days:
- Dublin: Register at the Burgh Quay Registration Office
- Outside Dublin: Register at your local Garda (police) station
- You receive an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card with your Stamp 2 endorsement
- Registration fee: EUR 300 (approximately NPR 45,000)
Visa Fees
| Fee Type | EUR | NPR (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-entry D Visa | EUR 60 | NPR 9,000 |
| Multiple-entry D Visa | EUR 100 | NPR 15,000 |
| IRP Registration (on arrival) | EUR 300 | NPR 45,000 |
Tip: Opt for the multiple-entry visa (EUR 100) if you plan to travel during your studies. A single-entry visa means you need to apply again if you leave and re-enter Ireland.
Work Rights Under Stamp 2
Once registered with Stamp 2, you can work:
- 20 hours/week during term time
- 40 hours/week during vacation periods: June-September and December 15 - January 15
- You need a PPS number (Personal Public Service Number) before starting work — this is Ireland's equivalent of a tax ID
After Graduation: Stay Back Visa
Ireland offers the Third Level Graduate Programme, which provides stay back permission after completing your degree:
| Qualification Level | Stay Back Duration | Stamp Type |
|---|---|---|
| NFQ Level 8 (Honours Bachelor's) | 1 year | Stamp 1G |
| NFQ Level 9 (Master's) | 2 years | Stamp 1G |
During the stay back period, you can seek graduate-level employment and apply for a General Employment Permit, Critical Skills Employment Permit, or Research Hosting Agreement.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
- Insufficient financial proof: Not demonstrating immediate access to EUR 10,000 for living expenses plus tuition.
- Course not on ILEP list: Only ILEP-listed programs qualify for Stamp 2.
- Weak immigration history: Previous visa refusals or overstays can affect your application.
- Unclear study motivation: A weak explanation of why you chose Ireland and your specific course.
- Incomplete documents: Missing translations, expired certificates, or incomplete forms.
Next Steps
- Ireland scholarships — GoI scholarship and university awards
- Complete Ireland guide — costs, universities, and work rights
- Compare countries — see how Ireland compares to other destinations