Van der Elst Visa
Non-EEA workers legally employed in another EU state posted to Ireland to provide a service for their employer.
The Van der Elst Visa is a Irish work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry) and processing time (~8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Van der Elst Visa is for
Non-EEA workers legally employed in another EU state posted to Ireland to provide a service for their employer.
Temporary posting only; no pathway to residence.
Van der Elst Visa - eligibility criteria
- Legally employed by a company based in another EU member state
- Hold valid residence in that EU state
- Posted to Ireland to provide a service under a contract
- Will return to the EU base after the assignment
- No Irish employment permit required for the posting
Van der Elst Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Van der Elst Visa (Ireland) is ~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry, with an indicative processing time of ~8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Irish Immigration Service.
| Type | Short-term work |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (AVATS) then submit documents at a visa office |
| Length of stay | Duration of the posted service (no employment permit needed) |
| Work rights | Provide the posted service for the EU-based employer |
| Study rights | Not the purpose of the visa |
| Government fee | ~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry |
| Processing time | ~8 weeks |
| Route to PR | Temporary posting only; no pathway to residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Temporary posting only; no pathway to residence.
Many applicants also compare CFS Permit · Contract for Services Employment Permit, AWS · Atypical Working Scheme, C Visa · Short Stay 'C' Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Irish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Van der Elst Visa pitfalls we fix
Van der Elst Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Van der Elst Visa cost?
The Van der Elst Visa government fee is ~€60 single entry / €100 multiple entry. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Irish Immigration Service before applying.
How long does the Van der Elst Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Van der Elst Visa lead to permanent residence?
Temporary posting only; no pathway to residence.
Can I work on the Van der Elst Visa?
Work rights: Provide the posted service for the EU-based employer.
Who can apply for the Van der Elst Visa?
Non-EEA workers legally employed in another EU state posted to Ireland to provide a service for their employer.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Ireland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Irish Immigration Service - official Ireland immigration authority