Visiting Academic
Visa

The visiting academic scheme lets academics and researchers spend less than 12 months at an Irish university or third-level college while still being paid by their home institution. It's used by lecturers on sabbatical, visiting researchers, PhD students and Fulbright scholars. Because they aren't employed or paid in Ireland, visiting academics don't need an employment permit; instead they receive Stamp 0 permission. It's a two-step process. First, the academic applies to Immigration Service Delivery for Stamp 0 permission using the TPER application form, through ISD's Customer Service Portal. The application includes letters from the Irish host institution and from the home institution confirming pay, bank statements or payslips, private medical insurance with full private hospital cover and a police clearance certificate. ISD reports an average processing time of about 4 months. Once approved, visa-required academics apply for a visa with the approval letter, and everyone registers after arriving. Visiting academics can't access State benefits, and while some, such as sabbatical lecturers, may bring family if their finances allow, family members can't work.

Lecturers on sabbatical and some directors may bring family if their finances allow. Other visiting academics, such as PhD students and Fulbright scholars, need substantial finances to bring family.

No. Family members of visiting academics can't work, though children can attend State schools.

The scheme requires your home institution to pay you. If an Irish employer will pay you, a different permission is needed.

No. Entry is at the immigration officer's discretion, and visitor permission at the border doesn't guarantee your Stamp 0 application will succeed.

The visiting academic permission is for stays of less than 12 months. Longer appointments usually need a hosting agreement or an employment permit.