Ireland Visa RequirementsFor Nigeria passport holders
Nigerian citizens require a visa to visit Ireland, costing $75. Applications are submitted through the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service online system, with biometrics collected at VFS Global in Abuja or Lagos.
Nigeria passport holders require a visa to enter Ireland.
Apply online at irishimmigration.ie. After submitting the online application, print the summary and attend a biometrics appointment at VFS Global. Provide a cover letter explaining your travel purpose, proof of accommodation in Ireland, financial statements, and evidence of ties to Nigeria.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Nigeria to Ireland: What You Need to Know
Ireland is home to a large and growing Nigerian community, particularly in Dublin. Many Nigerian travelers visit for tourism, to see relatives, or for short business trips. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a separate Irish visa is required even if you hold a Schengen visa.
Practical Tips
A letter of invitation from an Irish resident or citizen significantly helps your application. Show clear plans for your stay and a confirmed return ticket. Irish visa processing can take 4 to 8 weeks, so apply early. Note that an Irish visa does not grant access to other EU or Schengen countries. Yellow fever certificate is not required for Ireland but keep it handy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Nigerians need a visa to visit Ireland?
Yes. Nigerian passport holders must apply for an Irish Short Stay C Visa to visit Ireland. The fee is approximately $75. Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, so a separate Irish visa is always required, even if you already hold a valid Schengen visa.
Where do Nigerians apply for an Irish visa?
Apply online at irishimmigration.ie and then submit your biometrics and documents at a VFS Global centre in Nigeria. The Irish Embassy in Abuja oversees visa decisions. The online system allows you to upload documents digitally, which speeds up the process.
How long does Irish visa processing take from Nigeria?
Processing typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from the date your complete application is received by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. Apply well in advance of your travel date. During busy periods such as summer and Christmas, processing can be longer.
Does an Irish visa allow travel to other European countries?
No. An Irish visa only grants entry to the Republic of Ireland. It does not give access to Schengen Area countries or the UK. If you plan to visit both Ireland and any Schengen country, you will need to apply for both an Irish visa and a Schengen visa separately.