This is an exciting time as you prepare to travel to Dublin and we look forward to welcoming you.
The safety of students and staff is our key priority, so we are asking our new and returning international students to work with us to ensure we follow Irish public health guidelines to keep our campuses safe.
We hope this information is useful as you prepare to join TU Dublin.
Moving country is a big deal and takes a lot of planning. We love a list on our website so here's a quick checklist of what you might need to cross off before you head to the airport;
Documents
- Ensure that you can access all important documents that you may need to show at immigration when you land; visa, receipt letter for your programme, medical insurance, proof of funds etc
- Airline tickets
- Print/write out your accommodation address in case your phone dies
- Record all important phone numbers and addresses in case of an emergency
- Local currency. Most transactions are still done through card but if you want to have money, we use Euro.
Packing
- Check what weight allowance your airline is giving you prior to packing.
- Ireland has definitive seasons. Ensure you have warm clothes packed for our winter. Remember, you can get a lot here in shops like Penneys, Dunnes Stores,
- We walk a lot in Dublin, pack comfortable shoes to get your steps in.
- Adaptors and chargers for all your devices.
- Luggage lock
- Pack small toiletries and some spare clothing (if you can fit it) in your hand luggage, in the event that your suitcases are delayed.
Miscellaneous
- Pack something small that reminds you of home and can make your new room really feel like yours.
- Journal, so you can keep track of all the lovely memories you're about to make.
- Screenshots of all the information you need. Accommodation address, all your documents, just in case you can't access the airport wifi.
Medical Health Insurance
All Non-EU students must have private health insurance. The insurance policy must cover you from the date you arrive in Ireland until the date you leave. This is an important document to have when you land and when you go to your immigration appointment.
Your health insurance document must be written in English and have full medical cover for accidents and medical incidents, including hospital stays in Ireland, valid for 12 months, or for the duration of your stay.
What documents should I prepare to show when I arrive at Dublin airport?
When you arrive in Ireland you must show your passport, permit, visa and any other required documentation to the immigration officer at the airport or other port of entry.
How do I get from the airport to my accommodation?
There are taxi's and buses that can bring you in to the city and to your accommodation. Dublin Airports website has a list of ways for you to plan your journey.
How much will transport cost from the airport?
As TU Dublin has five locations in Dublin. The journey will vary depending on the location of your accommodation. In a taxi to our locations it will be around €25 - €40. €25 being a city centre drop off and the higher amount being a Tallaght accommodation drop off. If you are sharing a taxi, this would be the better option for you as an Eircoach one way ticket to the city centre is €8 but won't leave you to your door.
Our orientations are hosted on different campuses. Check out the student service section to see when your orientation and student card collection days are scheduled.
Getting Started in Dublin
| Within TU Dublin | Outside TU Dublin |
|---|---|
|
Complete Registration
You can get your Student Card at the events organised by the University. The times/dates when you can pick them up, depend on the campus you are based.
Letters you may require
Once you collect your Student Card you should request a letter from Student Services. You will need the following:
- One letter to complete registration with Immigration
- One to open a bank account
- One to obtain a PPSN to allow you to work part-time
Register with Immigration
This is a very important process as you will require your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) for a range of services;
- To get a PPSN (to work part-time)
- To re-enter the country if you leave
- To show a state official if requested
How to Register with Immigration
- Make an appointment on this website only – it can take a long time to get an appointment so be prepared to try several times.
- You will receive an email that tells you what documents you need to bring to your appointment.
- Attend the appointment at the following address: 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2.
- You must pay the registration fee of €300 with a bank/credit card. Cash will not be accepted.
Opening a Bank Account
- To open a bank account you usually apply in a branch or online.
- Before you open a bank account, you have to provide proof of your identity and verify your address.
- If you apply online, you still need to provide your documents. Most banks need hard-copy forms of documentation to be submitted in-branch or by post after you have completed your online application.
Examples:
- Traditional Banks: Bank of Ireland, AIB & Permanent TSB
- Online/Mobile Banks: N26 & Revolut
The University does not recommend or endorse any bank of financial institution. The examples shown are for reference and not endorsements. Students should consult the Competition & Consumer Protection Commission for independent advice.
Getting a PPSN
You can apply online for a PPSN number using MyWelfare, if you are living in Ireland and you are at least 18 years of age. You also need a basic MyGovID account.
When you apply online, you need to upload:
- A copy of your passport ID page and your IRP Card.
- Your Confirmation of Registration letter from TU Dublin as evidence of why you need a PPS number and proof of address.
Travelling outside Ireland
- Once you have your IRP card you do not require a re-entry visa while it is still valid.
- Ireland is NOT part of the Schengen zone so you may require a visa to travel to other EU member states. Similarly, you may require a visa to travel to the Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
-
While there is no border between Ireland and Northern Ireland, it is part of the UK. You may require a visa to visit there, if you want to visit the Giant’s Causeway etc.
Offer and Payment Stage
I received an offer letter for a course at TU Dublin. Now what?
First of all, congratulations on getting an offer. In order to secure your place you must follow the guidance on the offer letter to pay the appropriate amount stated for your course. Applicants are required to pay a minimum of 50% (or €6000, whichever is greater) of the years tuition fee to guarantee their place on the programme.
I received a conditional offer, can I pay a deposit to secure my place?
No. You cannot pay any deposit or fees when you've been given a conditional offer.
Can I pay in installments?
Yes, you can pay in two installments. Your offer letter will state to pay 50% of the programme fee (or €6000, whichever is greater) to secure your place. The remaining amount will be due by the 31st of January.
Arriving in Ireland
What documents should I prepare to show when I arrive at Dublin airport?
When you arrive in Ireland you must show your passport, permit, visa and any other required documentation to the immigration officer at the airport or other port of entry.
How do I get from the airport to my accommodation?
There are taxi's and buses that can bring you in to the city and to your accommodation. Dublin Airports website has a list of ways for you to plan your journey.
How much will transport cost from the airport?
As TU Dublin has five locations in Dublin. The journey will vary depending on the location of your accommodation. In a taxi to our locations it will be around €25 - €40. €25 being a city centre drop off and the higher amount being a Tallaght accommodation drop off. If you are sharing a taxi, this would be the better option for you as an Eircoach one way ticket to the city centre is €8 but won't leave you to your door.
Studying at TU Dublin
Who should I inform if I will be late arriving to Ireland?
Please reach out to your course coordinator about any delays. The course coordinators details are listed on each individual programme page on our website. Don't be shy, drop them an email.
I haven't received any information about registration. Who do I contact?
Our registrations office will send out an 'ITR' invitation to register and if you haven't received one please email them registrations.city@tudublin.ie and quote your application number.
I can't access my student email. Who can help me?
When you register with TU Dublin you will receive your student email address and password via your own personal email address. If you are having difficulty, please watch this helpful video on how to access your student email.
This depends on the programme and subjects. Some programmes will still have some blended learning but for the most part, we're back on campus and loving it.
What kind of supports does TU Dublin offer to international students?
We have so many supports to offer you; counselling, health centres, students union, accommodation office, careers offices and so much more. Check out the 'For Students' tab on the homepage for more info.
Can someone help me find accommodation near my campus?
Yes, we have a dedicated accommodations office that assist students in finding accommodation that suits them. We work with a lot of accommodation providers around the city. Reach out to our accommodation office and let them know what you're looking for.
Can someone from the university assist me with making an appointment with immigration?
Unfortunately not. All bookings for INIS appointments are made directly with the Burgh Quay office and it is your responsibility to secure one. Please check out their website for details
When do I have to register with immigration?
You need to register with immigration within 90 days of entering Ireland. As they say on their website, don't worry if you cannot secure an appointment within 90 days. They won't ask you to leave the country.
What documents will I need to bring with me to my immigration appointment?
A full list of documents can be found on their website. INIS will also email you the list after your booking has been confirmed.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, you can work 20 hours a week while you are studying. When university classes are not running, for summer breaks, Christmas and Easter breaks etc. You are able to work 40 hours.
Are there any part-time jobs on the campus for students?
No, we don't employ students on our campuses. Luckily, we're in Dublin so there's plenty of options for part-time work.