Ben wrote:Taking a flight from the UK to Ireland without an entry visa would be problematic in terms of logistics - staff working at check-in on behalf of the airline are likely to (unlawfully) refuse travel.
Applying for an EUTR visa at the Irish embassy in London in advance of flying / sailing to Ireland from Britain is fine, but be prepared for staff at the embassy to make your lives difficult and probably refuse the visa applications initially, later issuing them on appeal and following further documentation / letters / headache from you.
Sailing or flying to Northern Ireland from Britain and entering Ireland over land eliminates the stress of entry visa applications mentioned above and, whilst perhaps not the most direct or convenient route, is likely the most stress-free option whilst still being entirely lawful - providing you and your parents are all in possession of your passport and that they have sufficient evidence to prove that they are your parents and that they are dependant on you.
I am British and i have secured a job starting October in Dublin. My dependent parents are currently with me in the UK and they can stay here on the UK visa for 2 more months. I intend to travel to Dublin via Belfast as per third option provided by Ben though the UK visa is valid as per Irish visa waiver program. However, how do we get the stamp on entry if there is no one at the border? Can we go the Garda the next day and get the 90 day stamp showing identity and dependency proofs? Or do i just apply for the RC in a weeks' time and provide payslips, etc later?
would be great to get any feedback or advice