Immigration Regulations

Student Visas:

Students from countries which are not members of the European Union will need a study visa to study in Ireland. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule. Please ensure that you consult the following website for up-to-date information on student visas and other immigration-related issues:
www.irlgov.ie/iveagh/services/visas
Your local Irish Embassy or Consulate will also be able to advise you.

In Ireland, the contact details of the relevant government department are:
Department of Foreign Affairs,
Visa Section,
13-14 Burgh Quay,
Dublin 2
Tel: +353-1-6331000 (2.30-4.00pm, Monday to Friday)
Fax: +353-1-6331052/1053
E-mail:
Website: www.irlgov.ie/iveagh/services/visas

Applicants are asked to supply the following information when applying for a visa to their local Irish Embassies:

  • Valid passport number
  • Date of issue and expiry of passport
  • Date, place and mode of arrival in Ireland
  • Letter from MDI indicating that they have been offered a place as an exchange student
  • Evidence of sufficient funds to cover living and other expenses for the proposed stay
  • Recent passport photographs
  • Visa application fee (non-refundable)

We would advise you to contact your nearest Irish embassy or consulate to obtain information about other necessary documents, which may vary according to your home country.

We have been advised that visa applications can take between 2 and 8 months to process, so it is advisable to secure a place early at the Institute, in order to avoid disappointment. Unfortunately the Institute has no control or influence over visa issues but will advise where possible. The student must apply for this visa him/herself.

Registration with the Immigration Authorities in Ireland:

All students from outside the EU or the EEA must register at the Garda National Immigration Bureau upon arrival in Ireland. You will need to take along:

  • A valid passport
  • A student visa (where applicable)
  • Student Card from MDI, valid for the current year
  • Evidence of financial support (e.g. current bank statement indicating your name / a letter of guarantee from a parent or guardian indicating the availability of sufficient funds to cover you during your period of stay in Ireland / letter from your sponsor, confirming financial status)
  • A letter from The Registry at MDI, indicating that you are a registered student at MDI

Once you register with the Institute, you will be issued with a MDI student ID card and will then be able to register with the authorities. The dates for registration at MDI are available on the MDI website at: www.materdei.ie

Address:

  • Garda National Immigration Bureau
    13-14 Burgh Quay
    Dublin 2
    Tel: +353-1-6669100

  • Opening hours:
    • 08.00-10.00, Monday to Thursday
    • 08.00-16.00 on Friday
    • 10.00-14.00 on Saturday