Short Stay 'C' Visa
Visa-required nationals coming to Ireland for up to 90 days for tourism, family visits, business meetings or short courses.
The Short Stay 'C' Visa is a Irish visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry) and processing time (~8 weeks (varies by visa office)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Short Stay 'C' Visa is for
Visa-required nationals coming to Ireland for up to 90 days for tourism, family visits, business meetings or short courses.
No pathway to residence; you must leave before the visa expires.
Short Stay 'C' Visa - eligibility criteria
- Hold a passport valid 6 months beyond intended stay
- Show purpose of trip and a clear travel itinerary
- Prove sufficient funds to support the visit
- Demonstrate ties and intention to return home
- Have travel/medical insurance for the stay
Short Stay 'C' Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Short Stay 'C' Visa (Ireland) is ~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry, with an indicative processing time of ~8 weeks (varies by visa office). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Irish Immigration Service.
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (AVATS) then submit documents at a visa office/consulate |
| Length of stay | Up to 90 days |
| Work rights | No work permitted |
| Study rights | Short courses under 90 days only |
| Government fee | ~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry |
| Processing time | ~8 weeks (varies by visa office) |
| Route to PR | No pathway to residence; you must leave before the visa expires. |
Pathway & next steps
No pathway to residence; you must leave before the visa expires.
Many applicants also compare D Visa · Long Stay 'D' Visa, AWS · Atypical Working Scheme. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Irish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Short Stay 'C' Visa pitfalls we fix
Short Stay 'C' Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Short Stay 'C' Visa cost?
The Short Stay 'C' Visa government fee is ~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Irish Immigration Service before applying.
How long does the Short Stay 'C' Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8 weeks (varies by visa office). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Short Stay 'C' Visa lead to permanent residence?
No pathway to residence; you must leave before the visa expires.
Can I work on the Short Stay 'C' Visa?
Work rights: No work permitted.
Who can apply for the Short Stay 'C' Visa?
Visa-required nationals coming to Ireland for up to 90 days for tourism, family visits, business meetings or short courses.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Ireland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Irish Immigration Service - official Ireland immigration authority