Mr Alan Shatter, T.D., Minister for Justice and Equality announced on 11 May 2011 the full detail of a holiday and other short stay Visa Waiver Programme – Ireland’s first formal visa waiver programme.

This Visa Waiver Programme, which covers visits to Ireland by the holders of valid UK visas, was announced in conjunction with the Government’s Jobs Initiative in which the Tourism industry has a vital role to play.  

The Waiver Programme is intended as a support to the Tourism industry in its efforts to attract visitors to Ireland, especially from new and emerging markets.  The programme will run initially as a pilot, but is capable of being amended or extended at any point depending on lessons learned during running.

Peoples’ Republic of China is among nationals from 14 countries who obtain a visa to enter the UK for a short term visit and wish to travel from there to Ireland will not require an additional visa for Ireland from 1 July 2011.

Nature of the Visa Waiver Programme
• Holders of UK visas will have them recognised for short stay visits to Ireland.
• This is expected to mainly cover Business and Tourist visitors.
• There is an immediate potential saving of €60 per visitor, e,g., €240 for a family of four.
• This should ensure ease of travel for visitors travelling to and from Northern Ireland.
• For immigration control reasons, visitors must first have gained lawful entry to the UK before travelling to Ireland.
• Pilot programme to run from 1 July, 2011 to October, 2012.
• This will include the lead in to the London Olympic Games and beyond.
• The pilot is capable of being amended or extended at any point.
• Special arrangements will be put in place to facilitate visits by nationals of the affected countries who are long-term residents of the UK.
• Arrangements will also be put in place to facilitate visitors on cruise liners.

Types of visas available

Visit: requiring a letter from a hotel, friend, relative or flight details
Business: requiring an invitation from a relevant company or association
Student: requiring details of studies
Transit: requiring details of further destination
ADS: Group tours to the UK and Ireland from China only

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中国公民经英国短期赴爱尔兰将免签证