Immigration Process

 All non-EU students must register with Immigration (Garda National Immigration Bureau) within 90 days of arrival in Ireland. 

Step One: Fly to Dublin and go through Customs & Border Patrol 

At the airport, you will go through 'immigration' and talk to an officer. The officer will ask you why you are entering Ireland. You should tell the officer you are going to study abroad at UCD. Have your UCD acceptance letter and International Insurance Letter (provided by our office) in your carry-on in case the officer asks to see these documents. 

Step Two: Attend the orientation session for international students. At this session, the process for obtaining your Irish Residency Permit will be explained in Depth.

Step Three: Make an appoint with GNIB in Dublin at 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, Ireland and bring the following to your appointment:

 Please note the immigration process is always subject to change. Visit irishimmigration.ie for the most up-to-date information, and don't skip the orientation session about immigration. You'll be provided a more comprehensive list of documents you'll need to provide during that session. 

1. Your passport

2. Certificate of Attendance (All students can access an electronic Certificate of Attendance online via SISWeb) 

3. Proof that you have paid at least €6000 in course fees (an online copy of your Fee Receipt (known as a Fee Statement) is available through SISWeb)

4. Proof that you have private medical insurance (this is the ISOS letter Holy Cross provides you)

5. If you did not need a visa to come to Ireland, you must also prove that you can support yourself financially while you are in the country. You can do this by showing you have direct access to: €10,000 if you are staying for more than 6 months or €850 per month if you are staying 6 months or less

6. A credit/debit card for payment of €300 registration fee 

You can check all requirements for first time registration on the Irish Immigration website. If any of the documents are missing, your application will be refused.

UCD Global has an office that can help you with any immigration queries you might have. Click here for more information.  Please be advised that you are responsible for your own immigration status. You must comply with the immigration rules and regulations set in place by the Republic of Ireland. 

Please see further information about evidence of finances on the Irish Immigration website.

If you are lucky enough to be an Irish Passport Holder, you do not need to register with immigration once you are in Ireland. Simply travel using your Irish passport! 

We strongly recommend that you wait until you have your Irish Residency Permit before booking any international travel. There is plenty to see and do in the Republic of Ireland while you wait for your appointment!