It is useful to know that an Irish immigration officer can still refuse entry even if you have a valid visa, or if you don't need a visa. To avoid this scenario, the Irish Immigration Service have provided a very useful guide for all new incoming students here and also suggested documentation to present at border control.
First time registration - Information regarding first-time registration can be found here
You will be required to provide certain documents on the day - further information on these can be found here
How to get the relevant documents from the University:
Proof of registration letters (full-degree students only) can be downloaded from the MU Student web - it is called the Certificate of Attendance on our Studentweb.
Note: The StudentWeb letter facility is not available for visiting (one semester or one academic year) students - these students should request a proof of registration letter from the Records Office via this link - check the "currently registered letter" option.
Proof of tuition fees paid can be provided by Transfermate (if you have used this service to pay your account) or by requesting proof of payment from our Student Fees Office - under Duplicate Receipt section.
The cost of registration is €300.
From 04 November 2024, applications for online renewals of immigration permissions from all applicants nationwide should be submitted using the ISD online renewal portal.
Applicants will not need to attend the Burgh Quay Registration Office in person to renew an immigration permission, unless it is deemed necessary.
Applications for online renewal from all counties nationwide can be submitted now. All applications, nationwide, for renewal of residence permission, including when changing Stamp category, are accepted up to 12 weeks prior to expiry of a current IRP card to allow sufficient time for processing.
Applicants must upload all of the documents required with their application before submitting it, otherwise the application cannot be processed.
The Immigration website provides a live processing update for online renewal applications being processed. Applications are processed in the order in which they are received.
Please read the step-by-step user guide on engaging with ISD services for further information.
The applicant's new IRP card will be posted directly to the address provided on their application. It is essential that they provide a full and accurate address, including the Eircode. If living in an apartment block, the apartment number must be included along with the full apartment address.
From 2019 visa required nationals who hold a valid IRP card no longer need a re-entry visa to travel to Ireland. Their IRP card and passport will be sufficient. You can find more information here.
Non-EEA students with Stamp 2 permission to remain are allowed to take up casual employment. They can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and up to 40 hours a week in the holidays. Holiday periods have been standardised – June to September inclusive and from 15 December to 15 January.
Taxation/applying for a Personal Public Service (PPS) Number
You can find full details of taxation and personal rates on the Irish Revenue website.
If you intend to work you should apply for a Personal Public Service Number - Further information here.
Third Level Graduate Scheme
This section will be updated shortly for our September 2024 graduates.
As of 10th April 2007, legally resident non-EEA third level graduates have been allowed to remain in Ireland for the purpose of seeking employment and applying for a green card or work permit. Graduates who have studied for a primary, masters or doctorate degree from an Irish third level educational institution are entitled to avail of this scheme.
For more full information of the conditions, requirements and application procedures of this scheme please visit the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website.
Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and is subject to UK immigration law. More details can be found here. Before travelling, it is your responsibility to check if you need a visa and/or an ETA document.
All non-Irish and non-British citizens transiting or travelling to the UK (including Northern Ireland) for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences or short-term study for 6 months or less will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel, even when travelling by land between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and includes babies and children. More information here.
If you are a legal resident of the Republic of Ireland, the following rules apply: See here.
Please note that immigration spot checks are regularly undertaken by British authorities throughout Northern Ireland.
As you will see from the Irish Immigration website, private health insurance is an immigration requirement - Private Medical Insurance - Immigration Service Delivery
You may provide your own private health insurance, as long as it meets the Immigration requirements outlined in the link above, or you may purchase insurance through the Maynooth University VHI Healthcare scheme.
Maynooth University has a dedicated group scheme for non-EU/EEA with VHI Healthcare. This scheme is available to students enrolled on an academic course of one year or more. It offers a discounted rate and concessions on the standard waiting periods that must be served when joining a health insurance plan. This means that Maynooth University international students will have immediate cover for all new and pre-existing conditions.
Please read through the policy wording and prices via the links below. This policy is accepted for immigration purposes.
The Group Scheme Number with VHI is 93832 and you can read further information through the dedicated page for international students. Details of their main student plan is included in the link and payments must be made directly to Vhi in order to set up a policy (Vhi will contact you to confirm annual payment details). Please note the Maynooth University pricing discount is given at time of purchase. Vhi has a dedicated phone line for International Students which is +353 (0) 56 775 3157. Please reference the Maynooth University group scheme number 93832 when talking with VHI.
Students on a Stamp 2 visa are not allowed to bring dependents/children with them, however PhD students can make a Family Dependent application - Family dependents - Immigration Service Delivery You should contact Irish Immigration for advice on this ahead of your arrival in Ireland.
