What to Bring to Border Control (Ireland)

Helpful Content
Purpose: Help students carry the right documents for entry and avoid delays at the border.
Responsible team: Student Success / Admissions
Last updated: January 30, 2026
Quick summary
  • Carry your passport and visa (if required) in your hand luggage.
  • Bring course documents, proof of accommodation, funds, and insurance.
  • If asked questions, answer clearly and honestly about your study plans.
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Who this is for

Students arriving in Ireland for study, especially first-time visitors.

If you are not sure this applies to you, contact Student Success for guidance.

Step-by-step

1) Prepare your key documents

Bring the same core documents used for your visa application, plus your course acceptance and accommodation details.

2) Keep everything accessible

Carry documents in your hand luggage so you can show them quickly if asked.

3) Be ready to explain your study plans

Border officers may ask about your course, accommodation, and length of stay.

Documents, costs, timelines

Documents
  • **Documents:** Passport, visa (if required), course acceptance/booking, accommodation details, proof of funds, insurance.
  • **Costs:** None at the border, but you may have paid visa fees in advance.
  • **Timelines:** Keep a buffer for arrival checks.
Costs and timing
  • **Documents:** Passport, visa (if required), course acceptance/booking, accommodation details, proof of funds, insurance.
  • **Costs:** None at the border, but you may have paid visa fees in advance.
  • **Timelines:** Keep a buffer for arrival checks.

Common mistakes (avoid these)

  • Packing documents in checked luggage
  • Bringing incomplete or inconsistent documents
  • Not knowing your course details

If something goes wrong

If you are unsure about what to bring, contact Student Success before you travel. Do not wait. Tell us early so we can help you.

  • If you feel stuck, contact the Student Success Team.

How ULearn can help

  • Provide course documentation
  • Review your document checklist
  • Explain what to expect at arrival
  • Student life questions: contact the Student Success Team.
Need help now? Contact Student Success and we will guide you.
Email Student Success

Sources (official)

  • Short stay study visa (ISD): https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-a-short-c-visit-study-visa/
  • Long stay study visa (ISD): https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/what-are-my-study-visa-options/how-to-apply-for-long-term-study-visa/
Disclaimer: Rules can change. Always check the official sources above or contact Student Success if unsure.

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