Visa Processing Times
Visa applications are processed in the order they are received. The minimum processing times depend on the type of visa you are applying for.
Visa processing times
Note: Processing times can change during the year, e.g. before holiday periods. You are advised not to pay for a travel ticket before you receive a decision on your visa.
The current target processing times for complete visa applications submitted to the Irish Visa Office, London are as follows:
| Visa Category | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Visit | 45 Days |
| Business, including Conference/Event, Performance, Interview & Exam | 21 Days |
| Join family - When applying with an eligible Employment Permit Holder | 45 Days |
| Employment | 45 Days |
| Study | 45 Days |
| Transit | 45 Days |
| Join family – Category A, B or C Sponsors | 6 Months |
| Appeals | 3 Months |
| Join Family Appeals | 6 Months |
| Preclearance Applications (all applications with 4 as the last number in the application reference) | These applications are processed by Immigration Service Delivery in Dublin. Please see here for current processing times. |
| Family Members of EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens | These applications are processed by Immigration Service Delivery in Dublin. Please see here for current processing times. |
Please note that processing times are affected as follows:
- For applications submitted through VFS, the processing time starts from the day the application reaches the Consular Section of the Irish Embassy. This is usually 1 working days after applying in our London Centre and 2 working days after applying in Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Cardiff.
- For postal applications, the processing time starts once the application is accepted by the Visa Office. This may be up to 2 working days after recorded delivery to the Visa Office.
Important notes
Processing times can fluctuate during the year, for example before holiday periods. You are advised not to pay for a travel ticket before you receive a decision on your visa.
- Incomplete applications may not be accepted or may result in a visa refusal.
- The onus is on you, the applicant, to ensure that your fully complete application is submitted in sufficient time for a decision to be made before your date of travel.
Your application may also take longer than advertised if:
- You have not submitted the necessary supporting documentation.
- Your supporting documentation needs to be verified.
- Because of personal circumstances, for example, if you have a criminal conviction.