Do I need a visa to study in Ireland? Complete guide for Brazilians
Ireland has become one of the most sought after exchange destinations, especially because of the simplified entry process into the country. Unlike other European destinations, Brazilian students do not need to apply for a visa before traveling for English courses. Find out all the details about documentation, work permits, and how to ensure your smooth entry into Ireland.
Ireland's great advantage: visa-free entry
One of the main advantages of choosing Ireland for your exchange is the ease in the entry process. Brazilians do not need a prior visa for English courses of up to 90 days, and you can request a student permit directly at the airport immigration office.
For courses longer than 90 days, such as the program Study and Work in Ireland, you still enter as a tourist and then apply for the IRP (Irish Residence Permit) already in the country.
Advantages of the Irish system:
- More agile and less bureaucratic process
- Economy with consular fees
- Flexibility to decide course details upon arrival
- Possibility to meet schools in person before enrollment
Required documents for entry into Ireland
For courses of up to 90 days
For short stays focused on Learn a language abroad, you will need to present at immigration:
Basic documentation:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Return ticket or travel itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel, student residence or homestay)
- Travel insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000
Financial documentation:
- Bank statement for the last 3 months
- Proof of income (payroll, tax return)
- Letter from the employer (if applicable)
- Minimum of €3,000 or equivalent for support
For courses longer than 90 days
For the complete study and work program, the documentation is more comprehensive:
Academic documents:
- Irish School Acceptance Letter
- Proof of full payment for the course
- Certificate of English proficiency (when required)
- Translated school transcript
Robust financial proof:
- €7,000 in bank account (amount may vary)
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Income Tax Return
- Sponsorship letter from parents (if underage)
Irish Residence Permit (IRP): your official authorization
O IRP replaces the old GNIB and is mandatory for stays longer than 90 days. This document works like your “Irish ID” and must be requested within the first few weeks of arrival.
IRP Request Process
Scheduling:
- It must be done online on the official Irish immigration website
- Schedule within 90 days of arrival
- €300 fee (payable on the day of booking)
Required documents:
- Completed IRP form
- Original passport
- 2 recent 3x4 photos
- Letter from school confirming enrollment
- Proof of address in Ireland
- Updated financial proof
Processing time:
- Temporary card issued on the day
- Definitive card mailed in 10-15 business days
Permission to work in Ireland
One of the great attractions of the Irish exchange is the legal permission to work. The rules vary depending on the type of visa:
For English learners (Stamp 2)
- 20 hours a week During term
- 40 hours a week during holidays (June to September and December to January)
- Minimum wage: €12.70 per hour (2024)
- Popular sectors: hospitality, retail, customer service
For college students
- 20 hours a week During the course
- 40 hours during academic holidays
- Possibility of paid internships in the study area
- Opportunities in multinational companies
Visa renewal and extension
The Irish system allows renovations for those who wish to extend the exchange experience:
First renovation
- Valid for 8 more months
- It is necessary to prove a minimum attendance of 85% in classes
- Renewal fee: €300
- Mandatory updated financial documentation
Second renovation
- Allowed only in specific cases
- It is necessary to change level or school
- Stronger assessment of immigration
- Recommended only for genuine cases of academic progression
Important precautions to avoid problems
Upon arrival at the airport
Essential tips:
- Please arrive at least 2 hours in advance for immigration
- Keep all documents organized and accessible
- Demonstrate knowledge about your course and school
- Be honest about your plans and length of stay
- Avoid demonstrating intent for permanent immigration
During the stay
Always keep up to date:
- Minimum class attendance of 85%
- Address updated with immigration
- Valid health insurance
- Working documents (if applicable)
- Irish bank account with regular transactions
Main reasons for deportation
- Low school attendance (less than 85%)
- Irregular or unauthorized work
- Fraudulent documentation
- Overstay (stay longer than allowed)
- Problems with local law
Costs involved in the process
Mandatory fees
- IRP: €300
- IRP Renewal: €300
- Health insurance: €150-300 per year
- Bank account: €5-10 monthly
Total estimated costs
- First year: €700-1,000 in fees
- Renewal: €600-800
- Brazilian documentation: R$ 500-1,000
Alternatives for different profiles
For long-term students
If you plan to stay longer than 2 years, consider university programs or Pathway for university entry, which offers more stability and better career prospects.
For professionals in transition
Combine Irish exchange with other destinations through programs such as Study and Work in Germany to maximize your international opportunities.
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we simplify the entire bureaucratic process of your exchange in Ireland, from initial documentation to support during your stay. Our experienced team knows all the nuances of Irish immigration and offers personalized guidance to ensure that your entry into the country is smooth and hassle-free. Contact us and make your dream of studying in Ireland a reality, with total security and expert support!
