Ireland offers world-class education with a focus on research, innovation, and career-readiness. Its universities are ranked globally, and the Irish government actively supports international students through scholarships, work rights, and immigration opportunities.
Key Highlights:
- Home to 9 internationally recognized universities
- Globally ranked degrees (part of Bologna process)
- Hub for global tech giants like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Microsoft
- Safe, welcoming, and student-friendly environment
- 1–2 years of post-study work opportunities
- English-speaking education system
Ireland
Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle, is a beautiful and culturally rich country in northwestern Europe. It is a member of the European Union (EU) and offers one of the most modern and globally connected environments for students and professionals alike. With a booming economy, friendly people, and world-renowned universities, Ireland has become one of the top destinations for international students.
Ireland is the only English-speaking country in the Eurozone, which makes it especially attractive for Indian and other international students. It has a long-standing tradition in education, innovation, literature, and science, and is home to the European headquarters of many global tech and pharma companies.
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Quick Facts about Ireland
Feature | Details |
Capital City | Dublin |
Population | ~5 million |
Official Language | English (and Irish) |
Currency | Euro (€) |
Time Zone | GMT (UTC+0) |
Government | Parliamentary Democracy |
International Students | 35,000+ annually |
Climate | Mild, maritime (cool summers, mild winters) |
Main Industries | Technology, Pharmaceuticals, Finance, Agriculture, Education |
Top Cities for Students | Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford |
Student Visa Type | Type D (Long Stay) |
Work While Studying | 20 hours/week (term), 40 hours/week (holidays) |
Post-Study Work Visa | 1–2 years (Stamp 1G) |
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Why Study in Ireland?
Benefits
- Globally Recognized Degrees: Irish qualifications are respected worldwide.
- English-Taught Programs: Ideal for Indian students and other international applicants.
- Research & Innovation: Strong investment in R&D, with Ireland ranking among the top for impact per research.
- Post-Study Work Visa: Up to 2 years of stay-back for job hunting.
- Part-Time Work Options: Students can work up to 20 hours/week during term and 40 hours/week during holidays.
- Industry Links: Strong ties with multinationals help students gain internships and jobs post-graduation.
Ireland’s Education System for International Students
Ireland’s education system is internationally recognized for its academic excellence, research output, and career-oriented programs. The country follows the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), which ensures quality and consistency across all educational institutions.
️ Types of Higher Education Institutions
- Universities (Public)
- Offer Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees
- Focus on academic and research-based programs
- Examples: Trinity College Dublin, UCD, University of Galway
- Institutes of Technology (Technological Universities)
- Offer practical, career-oriented programs from certificate to PhD level
- Emphasis on applied sciences, business, computing, and engineering
- Private Colleges
- Offer specialized programs in business, law, IT, arts, and media
- More flexible admission and small class sizes
Levels of Qualifications under NFQ
NFQ Level | Qualification | Duration | Examples |
Level 6 | Higher Certificate | 2 years | Diploma programs |
Level 7 | Ordinary Bachelor’s Degree | 3 years | General UG programs |
Level 8 | Honours Bachelor’s / Higher Diploma | 3–4 years | Engineering, Science, BBA |
Level 9 | Master’s Degree / Postgrad Diploma | 1–2 years | MSc, MBA, MA |
Level 10 | Doctorate (PhD) | 3–5 years | Research-based programs |
️ Language of Instruction
- All higher education courses for international students are taught in English.
- Students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo.
Popular Study Areas
- Computer Science & IT
- Business & Management
- Engineering
- Finance & Accounting
- Medicine & Life Sciences
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics
- Design, Arts & Humanities
- Hospitality & Tourism
Work While Studying
- Students on Stamp 2 visa can work up to:
- 20 hours/week during term
- 40 hours/week during holidays
Grading System in Ireland
Grade | Description | Percentage |
First-Class Honours (1.1) | Excellent | 70%+ |
Upper Second-Class Honours (2.1) | Very Good | 60–69% |
Lower Second-Class Honours (2.2) | Good | 50–59% |
Third Class Honours | Satisfactory | 45–49% |
Pass | Minimum Passing | 40–44% |
After Graduation
- Eligible to apply for Stamp 1G visa (Post-Study Work Visa)
- 1 year stay back for Bachelor’s graduates
2 years for Master’s graduates
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Intakes in Ireland for International Students
Ireland generally has two main intakes (admissions seasons) for international students in higher education institutions. Some colleges also offer rolling or additional intakes for selected courses.
1. September (Autumn/Fall Intake) — Primary Intake
Overview:
- This is the major intake for all Irish universities and institutes.
- Most undergraduate and postgraduate courses are available in this intake.
Benefits:
- Wider course availability
- Higher chances of scholarships
- Better accommodation and internship options
- Campus activities and career fairs start fresh
Timeline:
Step | Period |
Application Opens | October–December (previous year) |
Application Deadline | February–March |
Offers Issued | March–May |
Visa Application | May–July |
Intake Starts | September |
2. January/February (Spring Intake) — Secondary Intake
Overview:
- Limited intake, but growing in popularity, especially among postgraduate and business/IT programs.
Benefits:
- Smaller class sizes
- More time to prepare documents and funds
- Good for students who missed the September intake
Timeline:
Step | Period |
Application Opens | August–September |
Deadline | October–November |
Offers Issued | October–December |
Visa Application | November–January |
Intake Starts | January/February |
3. Rolling or Summer Intake (May/April) – Limited Intake (Few Institutions Only)
Overview:
- Very few universities/colleges offer this, mainly in diploma or specialized short-term courses.
- Offered more commonly in private colleges like Dublin Business School or Griffith College.
Timeline:
Step | Period |
Application Opens | November–January |
Intake Starts | April–May |
Application Deadlines (General Guide)
Level | Intake | Deadline |
Undergraduate (UG) | September | February 1 (via CAO) |
Postgraduate (PG) | September | March–May (university-specific) |
UG/PG | January/February | October–November |
Note: Always check university-specific deadlines; some accept applications on a rolling basis until seats are filled.
Common Documents Required for Application
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Valid passport
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- Resume/CV (for PG courses)
- Portfolio (for design or creative courses)
Tips for Students Applying to Irish Intakes
- Apply early – Especially for September intake, as popular courses and scholarships close quickly.
- Prepare English proficiency test in advance (IELTS/PTE).
- Check visa processing timelines to avoid last-minute delays.
- Secure accommodation early—demand is high, especially in Dublin.
- Use a checklist for application and document preparation.
Which Intake is Best?
Factor | September Intake | January Intake |
Course Availability | ✔️ Most programs | ❗ Limited |
Scholarships | ✔️ More options | ❗ Fewer options |
Application Window | Longer | Shorter |
Competition | High | Moderate |
Best for | UG + PG | Mostly PG (Business, IT, etc.) |
Application Process
- Choose a Course & Institution
- Shortlist programs and universities based on your academic background and career goals.
- Check Eligibility
- Minimum academic requirement: 60%+ in 12th (UG) or bachelor’s (PG).
- English Proficiency: IELTS (6.0–6.5), TOEFL, or PTE scores.
- Prepare Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- English test scores
- Resume/CV (for PG courses)
- Submit Application
- Apply directly via the university portal or through the Central Applications Office (CAO) for UG.
- Receive Offer Letter
- Conditional or Unconditional Offer based on document review.
- Accept Offer & Pay Fees
- Pay initial deposit to confirm your seat.
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Ireland allows international students to remain in the country to seek employment:
Stay-Back Options:
- Undergraduate (Level 8): 1-year stay back
- Postgraduate (Level 9): 2-year stay back
Growing Industries:
- Information Technology
- Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology
- Finance & Accounting
- Business & Management
- Data Analytics
- Engineering
Average Graduate Salary: €30,000 – €45,000/year
Ireland’s booming economy and low unemployment rate make it a great place for career growth post-study.
Top 30 Universities in Ireland (With Rankings & Fees)
University Name | QS World Rank (2025) | Avg. Tuition Fees/Year | Popular Courses |
Trinity College Dublin | #81 | €18,000 – €25,000 | Computer Science, Business, Law |
University College Dublin | #171 | €17,000 – €25,000 | Engineering, Finance, Data Analytics |
University of Galway | #289 | €15,000 – €21,000 | Biomedical Science, Arts, Psychology |
University College Cork | #292 | €14,000 – €20,000 | Food Science, Pharmacy, Business |
Dublin City University | #436 | €13,000 – €17,000 | Communication, Engineering, IT |
University of Limerick | #426 | €12,000 – €16,000 | Mechanical Eng., Marketing, Sports Science |
Maynooth University | #801–850 | €12,000 – €16,000 | Social Science, Humanities, Maths |
Technological University Dublin | #851–900 | €12,000 – €15,000 | Computing, Design, Tourism |
Munster Technological University | #1000+ | €10,000 – €14,000 | Cybersecurity, Applied Sciences |
Atlantic Technological University | #1000+ | €9,000 – €13,000 | IT, Business, Marine Studies |
South East Technological University | #1000+ | €9,000 – €13,000 | Engineering, Creative Media |
Dundalk Institute of Technology | #1000+ | €9,000 – €12,000 | Mechatronics, Computing |
National College of Ireland | – | €10,000 – €15,000 | Business, Data Analytics, HRM |
Griffith College Dublin | – | €12,000 – €14,000 | Law, Journalism, Design |
Dublin Business School | – | €11,000 – €13,500 | MBA, Marketing, FinTech |
Shannon College of Hotel Management | – | €12,000 – €14,000 | Hospitality Management |
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland | – | €25,000 – €55,000 | Medicine, Nursing |
Institute of Art, Design & Technology (IADT) | – | €11,000 – €14,000 | Animation, Film, Design |
St. Angela’s College (NUI Galway affiliate) | – | €10,000 – €13,000 | Nursing, Education |
Carlow College | – | €9,000 – €12,000 | Humanities, Theology |
Scholarships in Ireland
Government-Funded Scholarships
- Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES)
Overview:
This is the most prestigious scholarship for international students, funded by the Government of Ireland and managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA).Benefits:
- €10,000 stipend for one year of study
- Full tuition fee waiver
Eligibility:
- Non-EU/EEA students applying for Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD
- Excellent academic record
- Strong statement of purpose
- Leadership skills and extracurricular involvement
Requirements:
- Valid offer from an Irish higher education institution
- Academic transcripts
- CV/Resume
- Two references
- Personal statement
Application Timeline:
Opens in January and closes in March annually.- Irish Aid Fellowship Programme
Overview:
Offered by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs to support students from developing countries.Benefits:
- Full tuition fees
- Living costs
- Travel expenses
- Health insurance
Eligibility:
- Citizens of selected developing countries in Africa and Asia
- Working in a development-related field (e.g. education, health, governance)
- Applied to a relevant Master’s program in Ireland
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- At least 2–3 years of work experience
- Proof of English proficiency
- Commitment to return and work in home country
️ University-Specific Scholarships
- Trinity College Dublin – Global Excellence Scholarships
Benefits:
- €2,000 to €5,000 tuition fee reduction
Eligibility:
- Non-EU international students
- Based on academic merit and personal achievements
Application Process:
- Submit a 200-word statement on “How I will contribute to Trinity College Dublin”
- Upload with application documents
- University College Dublin (UCD) – Global Scholarships
Types:
- Global Excellence Scholarships: Up to 50% tuition fee reduction
- Global Graduate Scholarships: Up to 100% for top applicants in selected programs
Eligibility:
- High academic achievers
- Enrolled in full-time UG or PG programs
Requirements:
- Strong academic transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- University of Galway International Scholarships
Benefits:
- Merit-based scholarships worth €2,000 to €5,000
Eligibility:
- Academic excellence and overall profile
- Available for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs
Requirements:
- Application through the university’s international scholarship portal
- SOP and academic references
- University College Cork – International Merit Scholarships
Benefits:
- Up to 25%–100% tuition waiver
Eligibility:
- International students with strong academic background
Requirements:
- Academic performance
- Personal statement
- Letter of recommendation
- Dublin City University – International Student Scholarships
Benefits:
- Partial tuition fee waivers (€2,000–€3,000)
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in full-time UG/PG courses
- Non-EU applicants
Special Scholarships:
- DCU Business School Scholarships
- School of Communications Awards
- Maynooth University – International Office Scholarships
Benefits:
- €2,000 tuition fee reduction
Eligibility:
- Non-EU students in full-time taught Master’s programs
Requirements:
- First-class honours degree (or equivalent)
- Motivation letter
Institute-Specific & Private College Scholarships
- Technological University Dublin – Non-EU Academic Scholarships
Benefits:
- Fee reductions for undergraduate and postgraduate programs
Eligibility:
- Non-EU applicants with excellent academic records
Requirements:
- Strong SOP
- Supporting academic documents
- Griffith College Dublin Scholarships
Benefits:
- Up to €1,000–€2,000 reduction in tuition
Eligibility:
- Based on academic performance and early application
Requirements:
- Online application with transcripts and SOP
- National College of Ireland Scholarships
Types:
- Academic Merit Scholarships: €2,000–€4,000
- Women in Business Scholarships: Up to 50% tuition reduction
- Master’s Edge Scholarships: 50% discount for recent grads of NCI UG courses
Eligibility:
- Varies by program and background
- High academic merit required
Field-Specific Scholarships
- Centenary Scholarship Program (Dublin Institute of Technology)
Focus: Postgraduate programs
Benefits:
- 50%–100% tuition fee discount
Eligibility:
- Excellent academic credentials
- Non-EU students applying for taught Master’s courses
General Eligibility Criteria for Most Scholarships
Requirement
Details
Academic Performance
Typically 70%+ in previous degree
English Proficiency
IELTS 6.5 or equivalent
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Strong personal motivation and career goals
Letters of Recommendation
From teachers or academic professionals
Extracurriculars
Leadership, volunteering, achievements enhance chances
Tips to Improve Scholarship Chances
- Apply early (some awards are given on a rolling basis)
- Maintain a high GPA
- Write a compelling SOP
- Highlight leadership and community involvement
Prepare for interviews (if required)
Career Growth Opportunities in Ireland for International Students and PR (Permanent Residency) Process in Ireland for International Students
Ireland has transformed into one of Europe’s most dynamic knowledge economies. Thanks to its pro-business policies, it’s home to major multinational corporations, especially in tech, pharma, finance, and life sciences. International students can leverage post-study work visas and abundant job opportunities to build thriving careers.
Key High-Demand Sectors in Ireland:
1. Information Technology (IT) & Software Development
Why Ireland?
- Dublin is Europe’s “Silicon Valley”
- Headquarters of Google, Facebook, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, LinkedIn
Popular Roles:
- Software Engineer / Developer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cloud Architect
- AI/ML Engineer
- Data Scientist
Average Salary: €35,000–€65,000 (Entry-Level), up to €100,000+ (Experienced)
Career Growth:
- Fast career progression due to demand
- Opportunities to move into management or product development
- High chances of work permit sponsorship
2. Data Analytics & Artificial Intelligence
Why Ireland?
- Heavy investment in Big Data and AI technologies
- National AI Strategy supports digital transformation
Popular Roles:
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Machine Learning Engineer
Average Salary: €40,000–€60,000
Career Growth:
- Specialized Master’s in Data Science or AI highly valued
- Opportunities across industries: retail, finance, tech, and logistics
3. Finance, Accounting &FinTech
Why Ireland?
- Dublin is a global financial services hub
- 50% of the world’s top banks operate here
Popular Roles:
- Financial Analyst
- Auditor
- Investment Banker
- FinTech Developer
- Risk Manager
Average Salary: €35,000–€60,000 (Entry), €90,000+ (Experienced)
Career Growth:
- High demand for ACCA/CFA/CIMA-qualified professionals
- FinTech innovation is booming with startup and corporate job roles
4. Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Why Ireland?
- 9 of the world’s top 10 pharma companies operate in Ireland
Popular Roles:
- Biochemist
- Clinical Research Associate
- Pharmaceutical Analyst
- Process Engineer
Average Salary: €35,000–€70,000
Career Growth:
- Structured career ladders in MNCs like Pfizer, Roche, Novartis
- R&D and regulatory roles expanding rapidly
5. Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Biomedical)
Why Ireland?
- Ongoing infrastructure, energy, and technology projects
Popular Roles:
- Mechanical Design Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Electrical Systems Engineer
Average Salary: €30,000–€65,000
Career Growth:
- Opportunities to work on EU-funded sustainable development projects
- Engineers Ireland provides chartership options
6. Business, Management & Marketing
Why Ireland?
- Diverse start-up culture and strong SME growth
- High need for strategic thinkers and digital marketing experts
Popular Roles:
- Business Analyst
- Project Manager
- Marketing Executive
- Digital Marketing Specialist
Average Salary: €28,000–€55,000
Career Growth:
- Management roles after 3–5 years of experience
- MBA in Ireland accelerates leadership positions
7. Health & Nursing
Why Ireland?
- High demand for healthcare professionals, especially post-pandemic
Popular Roles:
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Healthcare Assistant
- Mental Health Nurse
- Physiotherapist
Average Salary: €30,000–€50,000
Career Growth:
- Fast-track PR opportunities for healthcare professionals
- Sponsored training and permanent job contracts
Post Study Work Visa: A Path to Career Launch
Graduate Stay Back Options:
- 1 year (Level 8 – UG Degree)
- 2 years (Level 9 – Master’s Degree)
Allows you to work full-time and apply for jobs or apply for a work permit.
Ireland offers a structured path for international students to transition from study to permanent residency.
Step-by-Step PR Pathway
Step 1: Student Visa (Stamp 2)
- Valid for course duration + 1-2 years stay-back
- Allows part-time work during study and full-time during holidays
Step 2: Graduate Work Visa (Stamp 1G)
- Stay-back option post-study
- Duration: 1 year (UG) or 2 years (PG)
- Full-time work allowed
- Use this period to find a job and secure a work permit
Step 3: Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)
- For high-demand jobs (ICT, engineering, healthcare, etc.)
- Valid for 2 years
- Fast track to PR
- Employer sponsorship required
Eligibility:
- Salary requirement:
- €32,000 for eligible graduates
- €64,000 for all other roles
- Job must be on the Critical Skills Occupation List
Step 4: General Employment Permit
- Open to wider job categories
- Salary requirement: Minimum €30,000
- Duration: 2 years, renewable
Step 5: Permanent Residency (Stamp 4)
- Apply after 5 years of legal residence in Ireland
- Stamp 1G and time on Employment Permit count towards this
- Critical Skills permit holders can apply in 2 years
PR Requirements
Requirement | Details |
Legal Residency | 5 years (2 years if on Critical Skills permit) |
Employment | Full-time, continuous employment |
Clean Record | No criminal background |
Language | English proficiency (already covered in education) |
Financial Stability | Proof of income, taxes, and contributions |
Benefits of PR in Ireland
- Live and work in Ireland without restriction
- Access to public services and healthcare
- Eligible to apply for Irish citizenship after 1–2 more years
- Free movement across EU (after Irish citizenship)
- Family reunification options
Types of Visas for Ireland (For International Students and Professionals)
Ireland offers various visa types based on the purpose of travel: study, work, join family, or long-term residency. Below are the most relevant visa categories for international students and post-study professionals:
1. Irish Student Visa (Type D – Long Stay)
Purpose: For students pursuing courses longer than 3 months (full-time undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral programs)
Eligibility:
- Must have an offer letter from an Irish university or college
- Enrolled in a full-time course listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)
- Proof of sufficient funds (€7,000 minimum/year)
- Meet English language requirements (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
Required Documents:
- Valid Passport (at least 12 months validity)
- Letter of acceptance from the institution
- Proof of payment of tuition fees
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Proof of private medical insurance
- Academic documents and transcripts
- English proficiency test scores
- Two passport-size photographs
- Statement of Purpose
Processing Time:
- 4 to 8 weeks
Validity:
- Duration of the course + post-study stay-back (1 or 2 years depending on course level)
2. Stamp 2 & Stamp 2A (Student Permissions)
Once you arrive in Ireland on a student visa, you will be issued a residency stamp based on your purpose:
Stamp 2
- For full-time students on courses listed on the ILEP
- Work rights: 20 hours/week during term, 40 hours/week during holidays
- Eligible for post-study stay-back (Stamp 1G)
Stamp 2A
- For short-term or non-degree programs (e.g., language courses not on ILEP)
- No work rights
- Not eligible for post-study work visa
3. Stamp 1G (Graduate Stay Back Visa)
Purpose: Allows international graduates to remain in Ireland to seek employment or apply for a work permit.
Eligibility:
- Completed a recognized Level 8 (Bachelor’s) or Level 9 (Master’s) degree in Ireland
- Apply within 6 months of graduation
Duration:
- 1 year for UG (Level 8)
- 2 years for PG (Level 9)
Extension:
- Cannot be renewed beyond the allowed limit
- Must transition to a work permit (Critical Skills or General Employment Permit)
4. Critical Skills Employment Permit
Purpose: To attract highly skilled professionals in demand sectors like IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance.
Eligibility:
- Job must be on the Critical Skills Occupation List
- Salary requirement:
- €32,000/year for eligible graduates
- €64,000/year for all other occupations
Documents Required:
- Job offer letter from employer
- Proof of qualifications
- Passport
- Work contract (at least 2 years)
- Employment Permit application form
Validity:
- 2 years (eligible to apply for PR after this)
Extension:
- After 2 years, can apply for Stamp 4 (Permanent Residency)
5. General Employment Permit
Purpose: For other occupations not listed under Critical Skills
Eligibility:
- Job offer with minimum salary of €30,000 (varies by job)
- Labour Market Needs Test may apply (to prove no EU citizen is available)
Documents:
- Passport
- Job contract and offer
- Employer registration with Irish Revenue
- Employment permit application
Validity:
- Initially 2 years, renewable for 3 more years
Extension:
- Eligible for PR after 5 years on this permit
6. Join Family Visa (Stamp 4)
Purpose: To allow spouses and dependents of critical skills permit holders or PR holders to join them in Ireland.
Eligibility:
- Spouse/child of:
- Irish citizen
- Critical Skills Permit holder
- PR or Stamp 4 holder
Required Documents:
- Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificate)
- Passport
- Residency permission of sponsor
- Financial proof of support
Validity:
- Based on the sponsor’s visa status
7. Tourist Visa (Type C – Short Stay)
Purpose: Short visits (less than 90 days) for family, tourism, or education fairs
Eligibility:
- Non-EU citizens visiting for tourism, seminars, or short educational programs
Required Documents:
- Proof of accommodation
- Return flight tickets
- Financial proof
- Visa application form
Work not allowed on this visa
Visa Summary Table
Visa Type | Purpose | Work Rights | Duration | PR Pathway |
Type D Student Visa | Study (UG/PG) | 20 hrs/week | Course duration | Yes |
Stamp 2 | Full-time degree students | Yes | Course duration | Yes |
Stamp 2A | Non-degree short programs | No | Varies | No |
Stamp 1G | Post-study work | Full-time | 1–2 years | Yes |
Critical Skills Permit | High-demand jobs | Full-time | 2 years | Yes (after 2 yrs) |
General Employment Permit | Broader employment | Full-time | 2–5 years | Yes (after 5 yrs) |
Join Family Visa | Family reunification | Depends on sponsor | Linked to sponsor | Yes |
Tourist Visa (Type C) | Short visit | No | Up to 90 days | No |
