Ireland’s English Language Sector Criticises Sudden Hike in Student Fund Requirements
2 Min Read
Ireland’s English Language Education (ELE) sector is calling for an urgent review of a new immigration policy that significantly raises the financial threshold for non-visa-required international students.
The change, set to take effect from 30 June 2025, will require students from countries such as Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico to show €6,665 in available funds to study in Ireland for eight months—a sharp 120% increase from the previous €3,000 threshold in 2023.
English Education Ireland (EEI), which represents over 60 accredited English language schools, has warned that the sudden move could trigger mass student cancellations, damage Ireland’s reputation as a study destination, and undermine the sector’s recovery post-pandemic.
“This change has come without consultation, justification, or notice,” said Lorcan O’Connor Lloyd, CEO of EEI. “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.”
O’Connor Lloyd further criticised the policy for contradicting Ireland’s existing work-study visa model. While affected students are legally permitted to work part-time during their stay, they are now being required to prove financial backing as if they had no such rights.
Concerns have also been raised about the short 90-day notice period. Many students have already secured their places, paid fees, and booked flights—now facing an unexpected demand to find an additional €2,000 or risk losing their opportunity to study in Ireland.
EEI is urging the Irish government to pause the implementation of the new policy, introduce a transition period for those already enrolled, and commit to a formal consultation process with education stakeholders.
As Ireland continues to promote itself globally as a welcoming and affordable destination for international learners, the ELE sector warns that sudden policy shifts like these could harm both student confidence and long-term market growth.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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