Travelling to Ireland (Arrival Essentials)

Helpful Content
Purpose: Help new students arrive in Ireland smoothly with the right documents and a simple first-day plan.
Responsible team: Student Success / Admin
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Quick summary
  • Bring your passport, visa (if required), and course documents in your carry-on.
  • Keep proof of accommodation, insurance, and funds ready in case you are asked.
  • Plan how you will get from the airport to your accommodation.
  • If you are staying more than 90 days, you must register your permission after arrival.
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Who this is for

Students travelling to Ireland for the first time to begin an English course in Dublin.

If you are not sure this applies to you, contact Student Success for guidance.

Step-by-step

1) Before you travel

Check whether you need a visa and what documents are required for your visa type. Make sure your documents are original and match your application.

2) Pack your essential documents

Keep your key documents in your hand luggage so you can show them quickly if asked.

3) Plan airport to city transport

Decide how you will get to Dublin city or your accommodation (bus/coach/taxi). Save the official airport transport page so you can check live routes.

4) After you arrive

If you are staying more than 90 days, register your immigration permission within the required timeframe. If you cannot get an appointment in time, keep proof that you tried to book.

Documents, costs, timelines

Documents
  • **Documents:** Passport, visa (if required), course acceptance/booking, proof of accommodation, proof of funds, insurance.
  • **Costs:** Visa fees and registration fees can apply depending on your permission.
  • **Timelines:** Visa processing times vary by country; registration must be done after arrival.
Costs and timing
  • **Documents:** Passport, visa (if required), course acceptance/booking, proof of accommodation, proof of funds, insurance.
  • **Costs:** Visa fees and registration fees can apply depending on your permission.
  • **Timelines:** Visa processing times vary by country; registration must be done after arrival.

Common mistakes (avoid these)

  • Packing key documents in checked luggage
  • Arriving without accommodation details
  • Assuming you do not need to register for longer stays

If something goes wrong

If you are unsure about your documents or registration, contact Student Success as soon as possible. Do not wait. Tell us early so we can help you.

  • If you feel stuck, contact the Student Success Team.

How ULearn can help

  • Confirm what documents you should carry
  • Explain the registration process in simple steps
  • Help you plan your first days in Dublin
  • Student life questions: contact the Student Success Team.
Need help now? Contact Student Success and we will guide you.
Email Student Success

Sources (official)

  • Short stay study visa requirements (ISD): https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-a-short-c-visit-study-visa/
  • Long stay study visa requirements (ISD): https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-long-term-study-visa/
  • Immigration permission and registration overview (ISD): https://www.irishimmigration.ie/registering-your-immigration-permission/information-on-registering/immigration-permission-stamps/
  • Dublin Airport transport overview: https://www.dublinairport.com/to-from-the-airport/by-bus/dublin-buses
Disclaimer: Rules can change. Always check the official sources above or contact Student Success if unsure.

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