Representing over 60 accredited language schools, English Education Ireland urges an immediate review and pause of a new immigration policy more than doubling financial proof for non-visa students.
English Education Ireland, the national body representing over 60 accredited English language schools, is calling for an immediate review and pause of a newly announced immigration policy that more than doubles the financial proof required from non-visa required international students.
Effective from 30 June 2025, students from countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina will be required to show €6,665 in available funds to study in Ireland for eight months – a 120% increase on the 2023 threshold of €3,000.
Irish ELE sector demands policy U-turn
“This change has come without consultation, justification, or notice. It is difficult to see how a 120% increase in two years can be considered proportionate when the cost of living has risen just 2% annually,” said Lorcan O’Connor Lloyd, CEO of English Education Ireland.
The affected students are legally allowed to work part-time while in Ireland yet are now being required to show financial backing as if they were not. “This policy undermines the very structure of Ireland’s work-study visa system,” O’Connor Lloyd added.
In addition to the steep increase, it is understood that the short notice period of just over 90 days means students who have already paid, booked flights, and planned will be forced to find an extra €2,000 or risk losing their place.
The sector is calling for:
- An immediate pause and review of the policy
- A transition period to protect students already booked
- Full consultation with the education sector moving forward
English Education Ireland warns that if unchallenged, the policy will lead to mass cancellations, reputational damage to Ireland, and loss of key emerging markets that have helped rebuild the sector post-pandemic.
This story was originally published by English Education Ireland.
About English Education Ireland
English Education Ireland is the leading and longest-serving association of English Language Education (ELE) providers in Ireland.
The association has been representing English language schools across Ireland since the 1960s. Quality and assurance are central to its mission, ensuring that Ireland remains one of the best places to learn English in the world.
