Please note that you should only submit original documentation and everything should be on official letterhead where relevant.

 

1. Application Form

• Completed and signed visa application form from AVATS.

 

2. Application Letter

The letter should include the following information:

• Your full name and postal address.
• Why you chose Griffith College and your reason for studying in Ireland.
• Your expected arrival dates.
• The duration of your programme of study.
• A commitment to: (a.) Adhere to all visa conditions, (b.) Not rely on Irish public services (such as social welfare or healthcare benefits), (c.) Not overstay in Ireland past the relevant expiry date.
• Details of any family members in Ireland or the EU.
• Postgraduate students - if your proposed programme of study is in a different field from your primary degree, you will need to explain why.

 

3. Passport-Sized Photographs

• Two recent passport-sized photos (taken within the last six months).
• Your name and visa reference number are written on the back of each photo.

 

4. Passport and Travel History

• Current passport valid for at least 12 months after your arrival in Ireland.
• Copies of all previous passports (if applicable).

 

5. Proof of Course Enrolment

• Letter of Acceptance from Griffith College – the “Invitation to Register” letter.
• Details of the course, including tuition fees paid and due.

 

6. Educational History

• CV/Resume, listing past education and any employment history.
• Statement of Purpose, a statement explaining why you have chosen Ireland for your studies, how it fits with your longer-term goals and explaining any gaps in your education history.

 

7. Proof of Tuition Fee Payment

• A copy of your Electronic Transfer of Funds (ETF) to Griffith College’s bank account.
• Official receipt from Griffith College.

 

8. Academic Qualifications

• Copies of your previous academic transcripts and certificates.

 

9. English Language Proficiency

• A valid English language test certificate such as:
  • IELTS (Minimum score depends on the course).
  • TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test.

 

10. Private Medical Insurance

• Proof of medical insurance that covers you for your first year of study in Ireland. Griffith College recommends providers such as Study and Protect - www.studyandprotect.com to arrange the medical insurance.

 

11. Previous Visa Refusals (if applicable)

• If you’ve been refused a visa before, include a letter explaining the refusal and any supporting documents.

 

12. Financial Evidence (Proving You Can Afford to Study in Ireland)

• Personal bank statements from the last six months (for both you and your financial sponsor(s) if relevant).
• Proof of access to at least €10,000 for living expenses for one academic year.
• Evidence of tuition fee payment for the first year.
• If your programme lasts more than one year, proof that you have access to funding for subsequent years.
• Any large or unusual transactions in your account must be explained (e.g., lump-sum deposits).

 

13. Summary of Finances Form

• A completed Summary of Finances Form, which provides an overview of your financial status.

Visa fees may vary depending on the type of visa you apply for:

• Single entry visa: €60
• Multiple entry visa: €100*

You will receive payment instructions when completing your AVATS application.

*We advise students to apply for a multiple-entry visa so that in case of any difficulties in Ireland, you can leave and come back without difficulty.

Tracking Your Visa Application

Once submitted, you can track your visa application online.

 

Processing Time

Visa decisions can take up to three months, or more, depending on where you are applying from, and the overall volume of applications.

 

Visa Interview (if required)

In some cases, applicants may be called for a visa interview. If this happens, be prepared to discuss your study plans, finances, and reasons for choosing Ireland.

Once your visa is approved and you get the visa stamp in your passport, you are ready to travel. When you land in Ireland, you will pass through Border Control at the Airport and they will check the following documents upon arrival:

• Passport with study visa
• Griffith College acceptance letter – your “Invitation to Register” letter
• Proof of accommodation

When you go through Border Control at the Airport, your passport will be stamped. You must register with the Irish Immigration Service (ISD) in Dublin City before the date in that Landing Stamp. 

When you register with the Irish Immigration Service you will receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP), which shows that you are legally entitled to reside in Ireland.

Griffith College’s International Office is here to guide you through the visa application process.

• Email: international@griffith.ie
• Phone: +353 1 415 0400
• WhatsApp Number: +353 (87) 410 9530

For official Irish visa guidelines, visit:

• Irish Immigration Service