Ireland Raises Financial Bar for Non-EU Students

International students who do not need a visa to study in Ireland will soon face the same financial proof requirements as those who do. The Irish government has announced a sharp increase in the minimum funds threshold for study, with the new rule set to take effect on 30 June 2025.

Sudden changes and rising costs

Previously, visa-free students were required to show less in savings when applying for their courses. But under the new rules:

• For programs longer than 8 months, €10,000 in savings is now required for the first year, plus proof of tuition fees.
• For courses under 8 months, the required amount jumps to €833 per month, or €6,665 total – up from the current €4,680.

This update represents a 120% increase for short-term students, and the Irish government gave just over 90 days' notice, prompting confusion and concern among students who had already paid tuition and arranged travel.

Education sector calls for review

English Education Ireland, the national body representing more than 60 accredited English-language schools, has strongly criticized the policy change. CEO Lorcan O'Connor Lloyd called it "disproportionate," noting that the increase for short courses is 120% over 2 years, despite Ireland's cost of living rising only about 2% annually and the fact that students can legally work part-time.

The association is pushing for:

• An immediate pause and review of the policy
• A transition period for students already enrolled or booked
• Better consultation with the education sector moving forward

Without change, the group warns of mass cancellations, reputational damage, and the potential loss of emerging markets that have helped drive Ireland's post-pandemic recovery in international education.

How does it affect international students

Ireland has seen rapid growth in international student numbers. According to the report from the HEA, the number surpasses 40,000 in higher education for the first time in 2023/24 – a 15% increase from the year prior. A growing number of those students are from visa-free countries, especially in Latin America.

Mexico, for example, saw a 61% year-over-year increase in enrollments, while Brazil made up over half of all visa-free non-EU/EEA students in the English-language learning sector.

The new financial threshold may disproportionately affect students from these regions since students who have already been accepted into programs may now need to come up with an additional €2,000–€3,000 with little time to prepare.

The policy may also influence how students compare Ireland with other destinations like the UK, Canada, or Australia, especially if affordability is a top concern. Ireland still offers the right to work part-time during studies, but the upfront financial proof may make it harder to get started.

What's next?

Education providers are pushing for a pause or review of the policy, and some students may benefit from transitional support if changes are introduced. In the meantime, be sure to double-check the latest funding requirements with your institution or advisor, and plan ahead for any additional savings you may need before arrival.