Last Updated: 16 September 2026
South Africans need a visa to visit Ireland. The requirement was introduced in July 2024.
Ireland is not in the Schengen Area and is not covered by a UK visa, so a separate Irish visa is needed.
Tell us your travel dates, purpose and number of applicants for a Ireland visa.
Get Visa AssistanceDo South Africans Need a Visa for Ireland?
Yes. South African passport holders need a short-stay C visa for tourism, family visits and business trips to Ireland.
Ireland Visa Requirements for South Africans
Requirements vary according to visa type and applicant circumstances. The Irish visa office generally looks at the purpose of your visit, your finances and your obligations to return to South Africa.
From 1 June 2026, applicants can no longer appeal the refusal of certain short-stay visa applications, so a complete first application matters. Confirm the latest requirements before submitting your application.
Types of Ireland Visas
| Visa or permission | Typically used for |
|---|---|
| Short-stay C visit visa | Tourism and family visits up to 90 days |
| Short-stay C business visa | Meetings and conferences |
| Transit visa | Some transit itineraries |
| Long-stay D visas | Study, work and joining family |
Ireland Tourist Visa
Tourism and family visits use the short-stay C visit visa for up to 90 days.
Ireland Business Visa
Business trips use the short-stay C business visa, usually with an invitation letter from the Irish company.
How to Apply for a Ireland Visa from South Africa
- Complete the online application (AVATS) on the Irish Immigration website.
- Print and sign the application summary.
- Book an appointment with VFS Global.
- Submit documents, passport and payment through VFS.
- Wait for the decision from the visa office.
- Collect or receive your passport.
Ireland Visa Cost in South Africa
| Cost item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Single-journey visa | €60 (approx. R1,130) | Official visa fee |
| Multiple-journey visa | €100 (approx. R1,890) | Official visa fee |
| VFS Global service fee | Charged per applicant - check VFS | Provider fee |
| Visa assistance | R1,200 - R3,500 per applicant | Optional assistance fee |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
Get the assistance fee for your actual Ireland application rather than a range.
Compare Visa Assistance QuotesIreland Visa Processing Time
Irish short-stay applications from South Africa have been guided at around 8 weeks, and the visa office recommends applying up to 90 days before travel.
Processing times are estimates and can change.
Where to Apply in South Africa
Applications from South African residents are submitted through VFS Global. The decision is made by the Irish visa office, not VFS.
Documents Needed
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Signed application summary | From AVATS |
| Passport | Plus copies of previous passports |
| Cover letter | Purpose, dates and ties |
| Bank statements | Recent and complete |
| Employment proof | Leave approval |
| Accommodation and invitation | Bookings or host letter |
Common Reasons Visa Applications Are Delayed
- Unsigned application summary.
- Missing cover letter.
- Bank statement gaps.
- Applying too close to travel.
Visa Application Assistance
A provider can complete AVATS, write the cover letter structure and check the pack before VFS submission. See visa application assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for Ireland?
Yes. South Africans have needed a visa for Ireland since July 2024.
How much is an Irish visa from South Africa?
€60 for single journey or €100 for multiple journey, plus the VFS Global service fee.
Can I use my UK visa to enter Ireland?
Not by default. Check the Irish Immigration website for current exemptions or schemes before relying on a UK visa.
Can I appeal an Irish visa refusal?
From 1 June 2026 appeals are no longer available for certain short-stay refusals. You would need to reapply.
Visa Application connects South African travellers with independent providers who prepare Ireland applications.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
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