23 April 2022
How to Apply for Ireland immigration? In this article, we’ll talk about how to apply for Ireland immigration, what kind of documents you need, and what steps you need to take to get into the country. We’ll also talk about some of the benefits of moving there and what kind of visa you can apply for once you’re there. Here are some useful tips to help make your move possible!
DO YOUR RESEARCH
The first step in applying for immigration into Ireland is to understand how immigration works. In particular, it’s important to understand that before you can apply, you need a job offer from an employer based in Ireland. This is called getting a certificate of sponsorship (COI). It can be difficult and time-consuming to secure a COI—an estimated 20 percent of applicants don’t get one—so make sure your company has taken all necessary steps before starting your application. Be aware that not all jobs qualify: Your job needs to be on a list of occupations with labor shortages, which includes accounting and administration roles as well as highly skilled positions such as doctors and engineers. The required skills vary by position; check these lists for guidance.
DECIDE ON WHAT TYPE OF IMMIGRATION YOU’RE APPLYING FOR
Different types of visas have different requirements and it’s important to be aware of them before you begin your application. For example, if you are applying for a job in an Irish company, then you will most likely apply through points-based employment. There are five tiers within that category, with Tier 1 being highly skilled migrants and Tier 5 being those who aren’t in paid employment but wish to come over on a temporary basis. Once you know what type of visa you want, research online or consult with an immigration agent about how best to apply.
CHOOSE BETWEEN AN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT, RESIDENCE PERMIT, OR VISA AFTER ARRIVAL IN IRELAND
Before you decide whether you need an Employment Permit, Residence Permit, or visa, consider what your goals are. For example, if you want to come and live in Ireland but also have a plan to move back home after a year or two and want to take advantage of Irish income tax laws on foreign-earned income, then look into applying for an Employment Permit. If you’re planning on staying longer than that but would like permission from the government to work in Ireland long-term (or even semi-permanently), apply for a Residence Permit. And if you want temporary permission to enter and stay in Ireland before deciding whether it’s where you want to call home, apply for a short-term visa instead.
KNOW WHAT YOU’RE APPLYING FOR
Before you begin your application, make sure you know exactly what type of visa or permit you’re seeking. That way, you can be sure to include all of your supporting documentation. It’s also a good idea to understand what documents are required and how long processing may take—these will vary based on which type of immigration status you seek. For example, if you plan on applying for Irish citizenship, there are special requirements and filing processes that apply only in those cases. Similarly, if you’re already an Irish citizen but would like to bring someone along with you (i.e., a spouse or dependent), certain documentation is necessary there as well.
BE HONEST AND REALISTIC
Even if you have every advantage in terms of qualification, experience, and funding, an immigration officer will know if you’re not telling them everything. Don’t try and beat around the bush—the best way to secure an invitation is by being 100% honest about your plans, intentions, and motivations. If you think that sounds nerve-wracking, don’t worry: nine times out of ten, immigration officers won’t bat an eyelid; after all, they see it all—every week!
READ THE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
This seems like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget! Make sure you’ve read through all of your applications and taken note of any additional instructions. In some cases, you’ll be asked to apply at a certain time, provide extra information or documents or complete a separate part of an application. So before you press submit make sure you know what you’re supposed to do next. Mistakes on applications can cause delays in processing and even disqualification, so do your best not to fall foul of instructions!
FILL OUT THE FORM PROPERLY (DO IT ONLINE!)
Many people don’t realize that you need to fill out a visa application correctly and completely. It may seem simple, but a minor mistake could mean your application is thrown in the trash. You want it to be as close to perfect as possible, so take your time and read through every question carefully before choosing your answers. That being said, once you submit an application it’s hard (and expensive) to change anything or add more information.
TELL YOUR STORY WELL
Before applying for a work visa, it’s important to tell your immigration agent your story. Why do you want to relocate? What do you plan on doing in your new country? By answering these questions and providing supporting documentation, you can help support your immigration application. For example, if you have special skills or are relocating with a spouse or child who is a citizen of another country, share that information up front. You’ll have an easier time proving your case by offering relevant details upfront rather than waiting until it’s too late. Make sure all of your documents are accurate and complete; if any information changes along the way, let immigration know so they can update their records accordingly.
SUBMIT ALL RELEVANT DOCUMENTS WITH YOUR APPLICATION
While many people assume that a completed application automatically secures them entry into Ireland, there are several steps in between completing your application and receiving confirmation of your travel date. It’s important that you submit all relevant documents, including but not limited to your passport, proof of education and proof of employment. These all help demonstrate your ties outside of Ireland, ensuring that you do not remain in-country once you have entered. To learn more about applying for immigration or visas, reach out to a professional immigration consultant.
So you must have understood how to apply for Ireland immigration. Make sure to follow the guidelines to keep your immigration process simplified and hassle-free.
