Ireland Visa Weekly Updates – Track Status & Decisions

The wait for a visa decision can feel like an eternity, filled with uncertainty and anticipation. Whether you’re planning to reunite with family, pursue studies, or embark on a new career in Ireland, knowing your application status is crucial for peace of mind. Fortunately, tracking your Ireland visa application is a transparent and straightforward process.

This guide will demystify the two primary tracking systems, the VFS Global online portal and the official ISD Weekly Decision Reports, empowering you to confidently follow your application’s progress. By understanding how to efficiently check for updates, you can replace anxiety with clarity and take the next step in your journey as soon as a decision is reached.

Two Main Tracking Methods

Method 1: Tracking via VFS Global

If you applied through a VFS Global center, this is your process.

Online Tracking Steps:

1. Visit: The official VFS Global website for Ireland visas.
2. Select Your Country: Choose the country where you applied.
3. Enter Your Details: Input your Application Reference Number (from your receipt) and your Last Name.
4. Check Status: The portal will show your current status (e.g., “Under Process,” “Decision Made,” “Ready for Collection”).

Additional Updates:

• Email/SMS: VFS will send an email notification when a decision is made. SMS alerts may be available as a paid service.
• Final Step: When the status is “Ready for Collection,” you must return to the VFS center to pick up your passport and see the decision.

Method 2: Tracking via ISD Weekly Decision Reports

If you applied directly to an Irish Embassy or a visa office that uses this system, you must check the weekly reports.

What Are the Weekly Decision Reports?

• These are official PDF lists published every week by Ireland’s Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).
• They contain all finalized application numbers for that week, showing the decision (Approved or Refused), the visa office, and the date.

How to Use the Weekly Reports:

1. Go to the ISD Website: Visit the official Irish Immigration website.
2. Find the Reports: Look for the “Visas” section and click the link for “Weekly Decision Reports.”
3. Select Your Visa Office: Choose the specific office where you applied (e.g., Abu Dhabi, Delhi, London).
4. Download and Search: Open the latest PDF file and use the search function (Ctrl+F) to find your Application Reference Number.

Example of a Report Entry:

Note: Reports are updated weekly. If your number isn’t in this week’s report, your application is still being processed.

What to Do If You Can’t Find Your Status

• For VFS Applications: Use the online portal first. If there’s a long delay without an update, you can contact VFS customer care.
• For Direct/ISD Applications: If your number is not in the reports after several weeks, you can contact the specific visa office directly via their official email. Provide your full name, passport number, and application reference number.

Conclusion

Staying informed about your Ireland visa application no longer requires guesswork or endless waiting. By leveraging the dedicated VFS Global tracking portal for center-based applications or diligently checking the ISD Weekly Decision Reports for direct embassy submissions, you hold the key to accessing your status information promptly.

Remember to keep your application reference number secure and check the correct system based on where you applied. This proactive approach ensures you are among the first to know when a decision is made, allowing you to plan your future with confidence and clarity. Your path to Ireland is just a few clicks away.

Frequently Asked Questions