Host evidence
The host should provide clear identity, Irish address, status and invitation evidence that matches the applicant's stated travel plan.
- Host passport or Irish ID
- Host address
- IRP or status evidence if relevant
- Invitation letter
Back to permit applications
Family and visa support
Visit Family / Friend Visa
Collect applicant documents, host details, invitation evidence, relationship proof, finances and return ties for the short-stay visit pack.
What we review
- Applicant passport and identity documents
- Host passport or Irish ID and address evidence
- Invitation and relationship proof
- Financial evidence and return-ties information
Process
- 1Start the visit family or friend visa application.
- 2Save the draft if you need to continue later or submit when ready.
- 3After submission, your account shows the edit link and case record.
Practical guidance
A visit family or friend visa should connect the applicant, host and return plan.
A short-stay visit visa needs more than an invitation. The application should show the host's position in Ireland, the relationship, accommodation, funds and the applicant's reason to return after the visit.
Relationship proof
The relationship should be shown with sensible documents, not a loose bundle of screenshots.
- Civil relationship proof where relevant
- Visit history
- Communication samples
- Photos with context
Applicant return ties
The applicant still needs a credible return plan with work, study, family, financial or local ties.
- Employment or study evidence
- Financial evidence
- Family responsibilities
- Previous travel and refusals
Questions people ask before starting
What documents are needed to visit family or friends in Ireland?
Common documents include passport, application summary, host invitation, host status and address evidence, relationship proof, applicant finances, travel plan and return-ties evidence.
Is an invitation letter enough for a visit visa?
No. The invitation helps explain the visit, but the applicant still needs identity, financial, travel and return-ties evidence.
Can i2i help prepare a visit family or friend visa pack?
Yes. i2i helps organise host documents, relationship evidence, financial documents, travel plan and return-ties evidence into a clear short-stay visa pack.
Fees, official costs and timelines
i2i professional fees are separate from government, VFS, translation, attestation, courier or third-party charges. Government fees and processing times can change.
| Item | Government cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Short stay visit family or friend visa | Visa fees are €60 single entry, €100 multi entry, or €25 transit, with exemptions for some applicants. | ISD advises preparing up to 3 months before travel. A short stay visit decision is generally expected about 8 weeks after documents are received. |
| Visa office processing | Extra local charges may apply depending on the visa office, embassy or consulate. | Processing times differ by office, visa type and time of year. |
Ready to continue your application?
After registering interest or booking a consultation, you can continue your application and submit the information needed for i2i to review your case.