What Should I Expect When I Arrive at Dublin Airport?

Once you arrive at Dublin Airport, here’s what to expect and what to do next.

Arriving at Immigration

When you arrive at Dublin Airport, follow signs for Immigration. You will see different queues: make sure to join the line for Non-EU/EEA passport holders (unless you hold an EU passport). At immigration control, an officer will ask to see your documents. Keep the following in your hand luggage so they are easy to access:

• Your passport
• NCI offer letter & fee receipts
• Medical Insurance
• Shuttle driver contact name and number (if booked)
• Accommodation plans confirmation
• Finances

The Immigration officer will stamp your passport with a landing stamp, which allows you to stay in Ireland for up to 90 days. This stamp is called a ‘landing stamp’.

The officer will tell you that you need to make an appointment to register with Immigration before this landing stamp expires. As part of the NCI Welcome Programme, we will explain the application process to you, and in the meantime you can read more information about registering with Immigration for the first time.

After passing immigration, proceed to Customs and follow the airport signs (most students will go through the Green Channel).
 

If you have booked the NCI Airport Shuttle Service

Please read full details and rules on the NCI Airport Shuttle Service article.

If you are making your own way from Dublin Airport 

Getting from Dublin Airport to the city centre is straightforward and well connected:

• Dublin Bus Airlink leave from outside the Arrivals Terminal at the airport. Check their website for timetables.  
• The Aircoach service runs 24 hours a day with multiple city centre stops, please see timetables here.  
• Taxis are all metered and you should always use a licensed taxi. They are available outside the terminal. The fare to the city centre will cost approximately €35/40, and extra charges for each additional passenger and for carrying luggage may apply. 

All options are easy to use, and signage at the airport will guide you.