can you travel to ireland with schengen visa

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Ireland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Ireland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ireland.

If you decide to travel to Ireland:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Ireland.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must be valid for the duration of your stay in Ireland

Must have at least one page

No visa required. U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days.

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Dublin 42 Elgin Rd Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Ireland Telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777 Emergency after-hours telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Ireland for information on U.S.-Ireland relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of Ireland’ s website for the most current visa information.

• You must have a valid passport to enter Ireland. U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days.
• There is no minimum passport validity requirement for U.S. citizens entering Ireland. We recommend you have a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay, evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Ireland, and a return airline ticket.
• An increased number of U.S. citizens have been refused entry to Ireland or granted a limited stay because they failed to sufficiently demonstrate their travel intent to Irish immigration officials at the port of entry . You may be asked to provide evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Ireland regardless of your purpose of travel. For any travel other than tourism, please ensure you obtain the appropriate documentation prior to travel. You can find more information at the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service website or by contacting your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate in the United States .

We cannot intervene on your behalf when applying for a visa or residency permit, nor can we assist if you are denied entry into Ireland.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.

• Ireland is not a full member of the Schengen Area, which means that if you travel to Ireland from the Schengen Area, you are required to show your passport.
• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country.
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Ireland or for foreign residents of Ireland.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism : Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Crime : Although Ireland has a low rate of violent crime, you should always follow common sense personal security practices and maintain awareness of your surroundings when traveling.

• Rates of theft and petty crime have risen in recent years, and thieves often target tourists. In rare cases, these crimes involve physical assault or violence, more commonly in Dublin city center and in popular tourist areas.
• Rental cars are frequently targeted. They are easily identifiable by the rental company stickers on the rear window of the vehicle. If possible, remove these stickers and always lock your car when leaving it unattended. Do not leave valuables unattended in vehicles. When visiting city center areas, park your car in a secure car park and retain the parking ticket on your person.
• Keep car doors locked while driving. Don’t leave luggage or valuables visible inside a parked car and don’t leave luggage on a roof rack. When picking up and dropping off your rental car, do not leave the keys in the ignition while loading or unloading luggage.
• When using ATMs, protect your PIN at all times and look closely at ATMs for evidence of tampering before use. Criminals may use small electronic devices attached to the outside of ATMs called “skimmers” to steal the ATM or credit card data.
• In busy areas, thieves use distraction techniques at ATMs, such as waiting until the PIN has been entered and then pointing to money on the ground or asking for loose change. While the ATM user is distracted, another person will quickly withdraw cash and leave. If you are distracted in any way, cancel the transaction immediately.
• When using credit cards to pay at restaurants, a portable card reader should be brought to your table. Restaurant staff should not take your card elsewhere to process a charge.

International Financial Scams : See the Department of State and FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

• Report crimes to the local police at 999 or 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(353) (1) 668-8777.
• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.
• Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys .
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide information on victims compensation programs in Ireland:
• The Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS) is a free nationwide service offering support and assistance to tourists who are victimized while visiting Ireland. If you are a tourist victim of crime, report the incident to the nearest Garda (Irish police) station, and they will help you contact ITAS.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our webpage on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website .

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Currency in Ireland:  The currency used in Ireland is the Euro. U.S. dollars are not legal tender in Ireland and are not an accepted form of payment. There are limited locations to exchange U.S. dollars when in Ireland, should you travel with cash.  Payment by credit card and Apple pay is widely accepted throughout Ireland. However, it is important to note that not all U.S credit cards are universally accepted. Most Irish banks will not accept U.S. $100 bills. Many Irish financial institutions no longer accept or cash traveler’s checks. ATMs are widely available, but some, particularly in rural areas, may not accept debit cards from U.S. banks.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQIA+ Travelers : There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQIA+ events in Ireland.

See our LGBTQIA+ Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State’s Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Ireland prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. However, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation different from what is offered in the United States.

• Government Buildings : Irish law requires access to government buildings for persons with disabilities, and this requirement is enforced. Under Irish law, public service providers should ensure the service is accessible to those with mobility, sensory, and/or cognitive impairments.
• Parking : On-street parking, public building parking lots, and internal parking lots always have a certain number of disabled spaces available. A permit is required to use these spaces, and information on applying for the permit can be found on the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland website . Local authorities and commercial premises, such as shopping outlets, have no legal obligation to provide external disabled parking facilities for their customers.
• Buses and Trains : The majority of buses and trains in the main city areas of Ireland are now equipped for those with limited mobility, sight, or hearing disabilities, although some train stations and pathways may not be as easily accessible.
• Mainline and Suburban Trains : Portable ramps permit boarding from platforms to the carriages. These ramps are available at all terminal points and major junctions and stations that have staff on duty. They are also available on some trains. Travelers are advised to contact Irish Rail in advance to ensure such facilities are available. The website for Dublin Bus provides information on its travel assistance scheme. Regional and intercity bus services are provided by Bus Eireann
• Private Businesses : Accessibility in private businesses – such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, shops, and restaurants – varies widely. Travelers should inquire about accessibility issues with businesses before making reservations.
• Disability Allowance : People who live in Ireland and meet the medical conditions for a disability allowance may apply for free travel passes; there is also a blind/invalidity pension from the Irish Department of Social Protection for those who qualify.

Students : See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

As of March 6, 2022, the Government of Ireland removed all COVID-19 related travel restrictions to enter Ireland. Non-Irish citizens no longer need to complete a passenger locator form or provide proof of vaccination, or a COVID-19 test.

Patients who do not receive benefits from Ireland’s Department of Social Protection are expected to pay all costs up-front at the time of treatment and apply for reimbursement from their insurance provider later.

• Modern medical facilities and highly skilled medical practitioners are available in Ireland.
• Expect long waits for access to medical specialists and admissions to hospitals for non-life-threatening medical conditions. It is not unusual for emergency room services to be very busy or for post-treatment admissions to include a long wait (sometimes overnight) on a gurney in a hallway.
• We advise you carry your medical history, along with a detailed list of any medication you currently take (including dosage and brand name) in your wallet or purse and luggage.
• Most types of over-the-counter medications are available, but many U.S. brands are not. Some medications available over the counter in the United States may require a prescription in Ireland.
• Irish pharmacists may not be able to dispense medication prescribed by U.S. physicians and may direct you to obtain a prescription from an Irish doctor.
• A list of Irish general practitioners in each area of Ireland may be obtained from the website of the Irish College of General Practitioners .
• Ambulance services are widely available.

For emergency services in Ireland dial 112 or 999.

The Department of State does not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Ireland to ensure the medication is legal in Ireland.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Pharmaceuticals :

• Visitors to Ireland may bring up to 3 months’ supply of prescription medicines with them for their own personal use. We recommend that travelers bring the prescription medicines in their original packaging, with their name clearly displayed. This should be accompanied by their prescription or a copy of it, and/or a letter from their doctor and/or dispensing pharmacist outlining their condition and stating that the medicines are for their own personal use. This information should be inside the package in which the medication is being transported, as a means of proving the legitimacy of consignment for importation to Ireland. It should be noted that the Irish Customs Authority has the final say in all such matters.
• Schengen residents are required to have an Article 75 Schengen Certificate for prescribed narcotics and/or psychotropic substances on entry into Ireland if travelling from a Schengen area country.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Water Quality

Tap water quality is potable and contains fluoride

Air Quality

Air quality is good. Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates

General Health

Colds and other upper respiratory infections are common, but no more so than in comparable climates of the U.S. However, due to the damp climate, common cold symptoms may last longer than expected and mold can be an issue in buildings.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Cars drive on the left side of the road in Ireland . If you do not have experience driving on the left, you should be especially cautious as tourists driving on the incorrect side of the road are the cause of serious accidents each year.
• Road conditions are generally good, but once you exit the main highways, roads are likely to be narrow, uneven, and winding . Roads are more dangerous during the summer and on holiday weekends. Drivers should be attentive to cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in urban areas.
• Most intersections in Ireland use circular “roundabouts” instead of traffic lights, and it is important that drivers pay close attention to signs and yield the right of way to those already in the roundabout.
• Most rental cars in Ireland have manual transmissions ; it can be difficult to find automatic transmission rental cars.

Traffic Laws : Police periodically set up roadblocks to check for drunk drivers. Penalties for driving under the influence can be severe .

• At stoplights, turning on a red light is illegal ; you must wait for either a full green (any direction turn permitted) or directional green light (which could be straight, left, or right) before proceeding with caution.
• You may use your existing U.S. driver’s license in Ireland for a temporary stay, up to one year . Some insurance and car rental companies may request an International Driving Permit in addition to your existing driver’s license. To apply for an International Driving Permit, please contact the American Automobile Association . You are required to apply for an Irish driver’s license if you become a resident of Ireland.
• Travelers planning to drive to Northern Ireland are subject to UK traffic laws while in Northern Ireland . Traffic signs may be different than in the Republic of Ireland. Consult the United Kingdom Country Information page for more information on traffic laws in Northern Ireland.

Public Transportation :

• Intercity bus and train services are generally good. Most large towns and cities are connected by rail or bus. Train and bus services are more limited in rural areas between small towns.
• City bus services are generally adequate, although many buses are crowded, frequently run late, and lines do not necessarily link easily. Pay close attention to bus stop locations in both directions, as the drop-off and pick-up locations could be several blocks away from each other.
• You can review available train, tram, and bus services through the National Transport Authority’s website www.transportforireland.ie .
• Taxis are widely available in Dublin city center. Taxi rates vary by time of day and location. Ask your hotel for the number of a call-dispatched taxi service if you plan to be out during less busy times. Outside of Dublin, taxis are fewer, and it will likely be necessary to call a taxi company or use one of the several available rideshare apps operating in Ireland.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Irish Tourism Board and the website for the National Roads Authority of Ireland , which is responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight : The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Ireland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Ireland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Ireland should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Ireland . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report. 

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Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Ireland offers visa-free travel to citizens of many countries © David Levingstone / Getty Images

Visiting Ireland is a cinch if you’re visiting from a country that requires no visa or with whom Ireland has a visa waiver agreement. If you are visiting from a country with a visa requirement, then things can get a little more complicated, but here’s what you need to know to get you started.

Ireland is a small island, but it is home to two jurisdictions – which means two sets of immigration laws. Let us talk you through how it works.

Do you need a visa to visit the Republic of Ireland?

If you are from the EEA (the EU plus Norway , Iceland and Liechtenstein ) or Switzerland , you don’t need a visa to visit or work in the Republic of Ireland which is part of the EU.

British citizens in Ireland and Irish citizens in the UK (including Northern Ireland) hold a unique status under each country's national law courtesy of the long-standing Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement, which allows them to travel and work freely within the CTA. 

US citizens can visit Ireland for tourism or business without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the duration of their stay, but there is no requirement for it to be valid for any longer than that. For longer stays or to work or study, Americans will need to apply for a visa, which they can do through the official website of the Irish Embassy in Washington, DC.

Ireland has a visa waiver agreement with 56 other countries, including Australia , Canada , New Zealand and South Africa . A complete list of the exempted countries is available on the Citizens Information website.

Visa requirements for the rest of the world

Citizens of all other countries require a short stay "C" visa if they want to visit Ireland for any reason including tourism, visiting family, getting married or even if they wish to transit through Ireland.

The application process is laid out in detail by the Irish Immigration Service , and must be completed before travelling to Ireland. Families travelling together need to fill out applications for each individual as there’s no family visa option.

What you need to know about working holidays visas 

Citizens of Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan and the United States may be able to apply for a Working Holiday Authorisation through the Irish embassy in your country. This allows you to come to Ireland to work for a certain period, but it’s only available to applicants aged between 18 and 30 (35 in some cases).

No matter where you are coming from you will have to register for an Irish Residence Permit as soon as possible after you arrive in Ireland if you intend to stay more than 90 days.

How much will a visa cost?

There are three kinds of short stay visas. A single entry visa is €60, while a multi-entry visa – where you wish to come in and out of the country on multiple occasions over the course of the visa validity period – costs €100. Transit visas are €25.

The fee covers only the administrative cost of processing the visa; it does not cover the cost of submitting any additional documents. For specific information on any additional charges or costs, refer to the website of the Irish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

The Irish Immigration Service has a dedicated page on how to pay the visa fee.

Visiting Northern Ireland

Although Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom and therefore not part of the EU, there is no physical border between the Republic and the North, which means frictionless travel between the two jurisdictions.

Like the rest of the United Kingdom, visas are generally not needed for stays of up to six months for tourism or visiting friends and family – if you are a citizen of the EEA nations, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, South Africa and the USA.

However, since 2022 citizens of countries that do require a visa are covered under the terms of the British-Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) , which allows for mutual recognition of short-stay visas between the UK and Ireland. This means that a British short-stay visa will be valid for travel onward to Ireland, and an Irish short-stay visa will be valid for travel onward to the UK. Visas that are valid for use under this scheme will have "BIVS" endorsed on them.

Citizens from countries requiring a visa should apply for a visa from the country in which you will arrive first. The vast majority of international arrivals to Ireland are through Dublin, but if you are arriving into Belfast first, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office, where you will also find a full list of those countries that require one.

A visa for the UK lasts six months and costs £115.

Ready to plan your trip to Ireland? Here are your next steps:

• Plan your trip to Ireland with this guide to top things to do . 
• Read on for the best time to go to Ireland .
• Save this transportation guide on the best ways to get around.
• These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Ireland. 
• Get into the great outdoors in Ireland with these top hikes to tackle.

This article was first published Mar 23, 2021 and updated Mar 30, 2024.

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Ireland set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Ireland’s embassy in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

Countries may restrict travel or bring in rules at short notice. Check with your travel provider for changes.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

You should also read TravelHealthPro’s general COVID-19 advice for travellers .

Entry to Ireland

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for passengers entering Ireland.

Check the latest requirements from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs .

ID requirements

If you are a British citizen, you do not need a passport to enter Ireland. However, some carriers and airlines might require identification. Irish immigration officers check the ID of all passengers arriving by air from the UK and might ask for proof of British nationality, particularly if you were born outside the UK. You should take your British passport with you. Check the Ireland Citizens Information Board for guidance on acceptable ID.

You do not need ID to cross the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

Visa requirements

British citizens do not need a visa to visit Ireland. Ireland, along with the UK, is a member of the Common Travel Area ( CTA ). UK nationals do not need a visa or residency permit to live, work or study in Ireland.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Ireland guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Ireland. Find out about customs rules from the Irish Revenue . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Travelling with pets

Read about travelling to the EU with your pet and check the Irish entry requirements for pets .

Taking money into Ireland

If you are travelling with or sending 10,000 euros or more, check Irish Revenue guidance on travelling with cash .

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Current Ireland Entry Rules Explained

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Arrivals from European Union or Schengen Zone countries as well as those from third countries will have to follow the entry rules carefully when planning to enter Ireland after the latter’s government continues to keep in place some of the preventive measures imposed to halt the further spread of the virus.

Despite the fact that the Coronavirus, especially the Omicron variant, has affected a large number of countries, the European governments have started to ease their travel rules and consider the virus more like an endemic disease, .

Following the example of other European countries, authorities in Ireland have also decided to facilitate their entry rules. However travellers need to meet the following criteria in order to be permitted to enter Ireland.

Entry Rules for All Incoming Travellers

Internationals from other countries, including the European Union, Schengen Zone, European Economic Area or Third Country citizens are subject to the same entry rules when planning to enter Ireland.

All passengers planning to enter Ireland will be obliged to meet the following requirements:

• Fill in the passenger locator form
• Pfizer-BioNTech
• Oxford-AstraZeneca
• Johnson & Johnson/Janssen
• Coronavac (Sinovac)
• Sinopharm BBP

In addition, since the beginning of this month, February 1, authorities in Ireland have also accepted the Novavax vaccine as valid proof of immunity. Such a decision was confirmed by the Irish Department of Health. The same stressed that from February 1, the validity of the vaccination certificate was shortened to 270 days. However, vaccine certificates based on booster dose do not have a limited period.

Such a decision follows the EU Commission’s proposal that all EU countries should impose a uniform acceptance period of 270 days for vaccination documents.

“This validity period takes into account the guidance of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, according to which booster doses are recommended at the latest six months after the completion of the first vaccination cycle,” the Commission explained in a press release issued on December 21, last year.

• Internationals are obliged to present valid proof which shows they have recovered from the virus in the past six months.
• Passengers who do not hold proof of vaccination or recovery in the past six months will be required to present a negative result of the PCR test, not older than 72 hours when entering Ireland.

Domestic COVID-19 Restrictions

Authorities in Ireland continue to apply specific restrictions within the country imposed due to COVID-19; however, they could be lifted on March 31. Still, such a decision would be taken following the epidemiological situation in the country.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Ireland, Leo Varadkar, stressed that the country’s authorities might abolish the requirement to present a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate for Irish citizens who wish to access pubs or restaurants, starting from April.

However, COVID-19 rules imposed to stop the further spread of the virus will not include internationals, according to the Minister.

Such a rule means that all passengers from other territories would still be required to present a valid certificate that proves that they have completed their immunisation process against the virus when planning to participate in activities in Ireland or visit different places within the country.

Ireland has also been highly affected by the spread of the Coronavirus and its new strains.

According to the data provided by the World Health Organisation, since the start of the pandemic, Ireland has registered over 1,265,124 cases of COVID-19 infection and a total of 6,417 deaths.

Mobility in the EU: Frequently Asked Questions

Travelling in the european union.

As Ireland is not a party to the Schengen Agreement, Irish citizens must present a passport when entering other EU Member States. Similarly, all EU citizens entering Ireland will be required to present a passport or a valid national identity card.

Can a citizen of the European Union be restricted in his/her right to travel?

The right to travel to another Member State may be restricted only for reasons of public policy, public security or public health. Where a national of a Member State is refused entry to another Member State, the reasons for the decision refusing entry should be disclosed to him.  This was confirmed by the Court of Justice of the EU in the case of ZZ v Secretary of State for the Home Department C-300/11.

Can British citizens resident in Ireland travel to other EU Member States simply on presentation of their passports?

Holders of British passports who are not EU family members, irrespective of where they reside, can travel to any EU Member State for periods of up to 90 days in any 180-day period, simply on presentation of their passports.  British citizens should have at least six months’ validity left on their UK passports and the passport should be less than ten years old or they may not be permitted to enter the host State.

Are British family members of Irish citizens subject to the 90/180-day rule when travelling with their Irish citizen family member in the EU?

The 90/180-day rule does not apply to non-EU family members travelling in the EU with their EU relative according to the European Commission’s interpretation of the Schengen Border Code.  This means that British nationals who are family members of EU citizens and travelling with them are not subject to the 90-day rule.  

What can I do if my right to travel to another Member State or to a third country is restricted at the point of entry?

If you are an Irish citizen and your right to travel to another Member State or to a third country is restricted and you require advice or assistance, you should contact the Irish embassy or consulate in that country. If Ireland is not represented by an embassy or consulate, you have the right to seek assistance from the embassy or consulate of any of the twenty-six other Member States present in the country to which you seek entry. If you experience any difficulties in locating diplomatic or consular representation, you should contact the Department of Foreign Affairs .

If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact the Embassy or Consulate of your home State in the country you seek to enter.

Are there travel restrictions on non-EU family members of EU citizens?

Non-EU family members of EU citizens who are in possession of a residence card issued under Article 10, Directive 2004/38/EC and are travelling with or to join EU family members should be permitted to enter any EU Member State simply on presentation of their passport and a valid residence card, including a permanent residence card (Ryanair v Orzagos Rendor-fokapitanysag, Case, C-754/18) in lieu of a visa (Article 5 of Directive 2004/38/EC).

What about the non-EU family members of British citizens living in the UK?

Non-EU family members of British citizens living in the UK may require visas to enter any EU Member State, including Ireland.  

I am a French citizen married to a Thai national. We are living in Ireland.  We plan to travel to Poland for our holidays in September. Can you confirm what travel documentation we require in order to travel to Poland?

As a French citizen resident in Ireland, you can travel to Poland and to any other country of the EU simply on presentation of a valid passport or national identity card, if requested. In the case of your spouse, assuming that he is in possession of a residence card issued pursuant to Article 10, Directive 2004/38/EC, he is entitled to travel with you to Poland simply on presentation of his passport and residence card without having to obtain a visa.

Prior to travelling, you should ensure that you obtain your European Health Insurance Card and adequate travel insurance.

If the residence card held by the non-EU national is not one issued pursuant to Article 10, Directive 2004/38/EC, a visa may be required.  In these circumstances, if the non-EU national is travelling with or to join their EU family member, the visa should be granted without delay or charge or formality (Article 5, Directive 2004/38/EC).

Are national authorities willing to grant visas without formality or delay to partners of EU citizens?

Even where an EU citizen returns to his Member State of origin, e.g., an Irish national living in another EU Member State returning to Ireland with his non-EU partner, the national authorities must facilitate the entry and residence of that partner provided the couple can prove that they are in a durable relationship.  This was confirmed by the Court of Justice of the EU in the case of the Secretary of State for the Home Office v Rozanne Banger, C-89/17.

What are the travel rights of non-EU family members who have been issued with residence permits under domestic law rather than EU law?

Non-EU family members in possession of national residence permits issued pursuant to domestic Irish law and travelling from Ireland to other EU Member States will require valid visas to do so, even when travelling with the Irish family member.  Similarly, non-EU family members in possession of residence permits issued under the domestic law of other Member States will require a valid visa to enter Ireland.  If travelling with or to join their EU family member, the visa should issue without delay or formality or charge.

I am an Irish national married to a Chinese national.  We live in Ireland.  We are planning to travel to France next month.  Is it correct that my wife does not require a visa and that she can use her Irish residence stamp to travel in lieu of a visa? 

Since you are an Irish national living in Ireland, your wife has been granted residence in Ireland based on Irish law rather than EU law. You are not regarded as exercising EU Treaty rights by living or working in a country other than that of which you are a national (Article 3, Directive 2004/38/EC).  This means that your wife’s residence document is not one granted under EU law and she cannot use this document in lieu of a visa as would be the case if the document was granted under EU law.  However, when your wife applies for a visa to the Embassy of the country to which she intends to travel, the visa should be granted to her without charge or formality or delay if she is travelling with or to join you (Article 5, Directive 2004/38/EC).  She should only be required to present her passport and your marriage certificate and should not be required to provide evidence of financial independence or hotel reservations etc.

Driving in the EU

All new driving licences issued across the EU are in the form of a plastic "credit card," with a standard European format and tougher security protection.

Licences issued prior to January 2013 will be changed to the new format at the time of renewal or at the latest by 2033.

Will a driving licence issued in one Member State be recognised in other Member States?   I am an Irish citizen holding an Irish driving licence. I will get married later this year and plan to take up residence in Portugal with my Portuguese husband. Will I have to obtain a Portuguese driving licence when I move to Portugal or will the authorities there recognise my Irish licence? 

Directive 2006/126/EC provides for the mutual recognition of driving licences in the EU. Based on this Directive, provided it is valid in Ireland your Irish driving licence is valid in Portugal and should be recognised there. It is not necessary for you to obtain a Portuguese driving licence when you take up residence in Portugal.

However, the general rule is that if you hold a valid driving licence and take up "normal residence" in a Member State other than the one that issued the licence, the host Member State i.e., Portugal, may enter on the licence any information needed for administration purposes and may apply its national rules on:

• the period of validity of the licence;
• medical checks (same frequency as for nationals);
• tax arrangements (connected with the holding of a licence);
• penalties (e.g., a penalty-points licence);
• restriction, suspension, withdrawal or cancellation of the licence.

I am an Irish national resident in Northern Ireland and am in possession of a driving licence from Northern Ireland.  I work across the border in Ireland.  Is my driving licence valid for driving in Ireland?

Your Northern Ireland driving licence permits you to drive in Ireland provided you remain resident in Northern Ireland.  Visitors to Ireland can drive on a driving licence from any State outside the EU/EEA for up to one year provided the driving licence is current and valid.

Is it necessary to obtain additional car insurance when travelling to another Member State?

Your car insurance policy will automatically provide, at no extra cost, the minimum cover (third party liability) required by law. This applies in all Member States as well as Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

If you have comprehensive insurance at home, you should check that the cover extends to travelling in other countries. You may also have to consider vehicle breakdown insurance.

Is additional car insurance now required when driving a car from Ireland to Northern Ireland or Great Britain?

No additional car insurance is required for cars registered in Ireland driving in Northern Ireland or Great Britain.  Green Cards are not required for travel in the UK, including Northern Ireland, for Irish registered vehicles if you have a valid Irish insurance disc.

Where can I obtain further information on travelling in the EU? 

You can obtain further information on travelling in the EU  here .

Public Documents in the EU

Following the coming into force of the Regulation on Public Documents in February 2019, Regulation 2016/1191/EU, the procedures for recognition of certain public documents have been simplified.  Citizens living in an EU country other than their own are often required to present a public document to the authorities of the EU country where they live. Such public documents include birth certificates or a criminal vetting document.

Prior to application of the Regulation, citizens presenting a public document in another EU country were often required to obtain an authenticity stamp (apostille) to prove that their public document was authentic. Citizens were often also required to present a certified copy and a translation of their public document.  The Regulation puts an end to a number of bureaucratic procedures:

• Public documents (for example, a birth certificate, a marriage certificate, a judgment) and certified copies issued by the authorities of an EU country must be accepted as authentic by the authorities of another EU country without the need for an authenticity stamp (an apostille);
• Citizens are no longer required to provide at the same time both an original public document and a certified copy. Where an EU country permits the presentation of a certified copy of a public document instead of the original, the authorities of that EU country must accept a certified copy from the EU country where the public document was issued;
• Citizens are no longer required to provide a translation of their public document. If the public document is not in one of the official languages of the EU, citizens can ask for a multilingual standard form, available in all EU languages, from the authorities of the EU country which issued the public document. This form can be attached to the public document to avoid translation requirements. When a citizen presents a public document together with a multilingual standard form, the receiving authority can only require a translation of the public document in exceptional circumstances.
• If the authorities of the host EU country require a certified translation of the public document presented by the citizen, they must accept a certified translation from any EU country.

Diplomatic and Consular Protection outside the EU

My son is currently holidaying in Cuba and then plans to travel in Argentina and Peru. What if something happens to him in one of these countries where there is no immediate Irish diplomatic or consular representation?

One of the benefits of EU citizenship is that if your son finds himself in difficulties in a third country where there is no Irish diplomatic or consular representation, he can seek assistance from any one of the diplomatic or consular representatives of any one of the twenty-six other EU Member States. They must accord him the same treatment as they would give to one of their own nationals. This is an important right for a national from a small country such as Ireland which does not have diplomatic or consular representation in every country in the world.

Cross-border Succession

Previously, the existence of different national rules made inheritances involving more than one EU country complex and costly. Regulation 650/2010/EU (the Succession Regulation) makes cross-border inheritance simpler by clarifying which EU country’s courts will have jurisdiction to deal with the inheritance and which law the courts will apply.  Under the Regulation, the courts of the EU country where the person usually lived at the time of their death will deal with the inheritance and will apply the law of that EU country.  Citizens can choose the law of their country of nationality to apply to their estate, whether it is an EU or a non-EU country. Judgments on inheritance given in one EU country will now be automatically recognised in other EU countries.   However, the Succession Regulation does not apply in Ireland or Denmark.  This means that although these countries are not subject to the provisions of the Succession Regulation, Irish and Danish citizens living in a Member State where the Succession Regulation applies can benefit from the rules in the Regulation.

I am an Irish citizen living in France.  I own a small property in France which I would like to leave to my eldest grandson.  Can I apply Irish law to ensure that my grandson successfully inherits the property?

Yes.  Under the Succession Regulation, you can choose Irish law as the law applicable to the succession of your French property.  If the succession is handled in France, the French authorities will apply Irish law to your entire estate.

It is however important that you formally choose Irish law as the applicable law in your will. Otherwise, French law will be applied to the succession of your entire estate if you are habitually resident in France at the time of your death.

Further Legal Advice on Your Rights

If you require legal advice on your rights in the EU, you may wish to contact the Your Europe Advice service . This is an EU advice service for the public. It consists of a team of 60 independent lawyers who cover all EU official languages and are familiar both with EU law and national laws in all EU countries. They will provide you with free and personalised advice in the language of your choice, within a week.  The response received, either by email or telephone as selected by you, will clarify the European law that applies in your case and explain how you can exercise your EU rights. 

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Permission to enter Ireland

Introduction, eea, uk and swiss nationals and permissionto enter ireland, non-eea nationals and permission to enter ireland, being refused permission to enter ireland, if you are granted permission to enter.

Ireland has rules and laws about who can enter the country. If you are a citizen of a country that is outside the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland or the UK, you must have permission to enter Ireland.

You get permission to enter Ireland from an immigration officer at the airport or ferry port where you enter Ireland. If you enter Ireland through Northern Ireland, you must get permission to enter after your arrival. You may also need to apply for and be granted a visa to enter Ireland (see ‘Non-EEA nationals and permission to enter Ireland’ below).

An immigration officer can refuse permission for you to enter Ireland, even if you have a visa or residence permission in Ireland.

Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area . This means that you must have a national passport or national identity card to enter Ireland from the EEA.

Travel with a child aged under 18: Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) has published advice for people travelling to Ireland with a minor who is not their child or who has a different surname .

EEA and Swiss citizens must have a passport or national identity card to enter Ireland.

EEA, and Swiss citizens have the right to move freely in the EEA, and you can only be refused permission to enter Ireland in very limited situations:

• You are suffering from a serious contagious disease which poses a serious threat to the population
• Your past behaviour, including any criminal convictions you may have, is deemed to pose a substantial risk to public security or public policy

UK citizens can travel freely to Ireland as part of the Common Travel Area .

You do not have to register with the immigration authorities as EEA and Swiss nationals have specific rights to live and work in Ireland.

If you are travelling with family members who are not citizens of the EEA, UK or Switzerland, they need to have permission to enter and may have to apply for a visa.

If you are a national of any other country (other than the United Kingdom ), you must get permission to enter when you arrive in Ireland.

You may have to get a visa before you can travel to Ireland. A visa is a type of preclearance that allows you to travel to Ireland. You still have to get permission to enter Ireland at your port of entry to the State even if you have a valid visa.

Preclearance

If you do not need a visa to enter Ireland, you have to get pre-clearance before you travel to Ireland if you are moving here because:

• You plan to practice as a minister of religion
• You are a volunteer
• You are the de facto partner of an Irish citizen (this means you are in a relationship with an Irish citizen that is like a marriage, but you are not married to them)
• You are the de facto partner of a Critical Skills Employment Permit holder
• You are joining or accompanying a UK national family member

If your preclearance application is successful, you will be granted a letter of approval or preclearance letter. This must be presented to the immigration officer at border control when you arrival in Ireland. An Immigration Officer at border control can refuse you entry even if you have a preclearance letter and visa.

Preparing for entering Ireland

You must have a passport or recognised travel document if you are coming from a country outside the EEA. You may also need to have a visa.

You should have proof of the reasons you are coming to Ireland. The documents you need depend on the purpose of your trip. If you are visiting Ireland for a short period, you should have:

• Proof that you have money to support yourself and your dependents
• Proof of where you are staying while you are in Ireland
• A return ticket to go back to the country where you normally live
• Proof that you are working or studying in your home country, or have other important things (for example, family commitments) to return to

If you plan to travel to the UK as well, you must have permission to enter the UK before you come to Ireland.

If you are moving to Ireland, you have to show that you meet the requirements for your reasons for moving here. Some examples of the reasons for travelling to Ireland are:

• If you plan to study in Ireland
• If you are joining your Irish spouse
• If you are joining your Irish partner
• If you are joining your EU family member
• If you have an employment permit

The immigration officer may refuse your permission to enter Ireland if the immigration officer believes:

• You are not in a position to support yourself and any dependants arriving with you
• You intend to take up employment and you do not have a permit
• You suffer from certain specified conditions - these include TB, other infectious diseases, drug addiction and profound mental disturbance (this is defined as “manifest conditions of psychotic disturbance with agitation, delirium, hallucinations or confusion”)
• You have been convicted of an offence which carries a penalty of a year’s imprisonment or more
• You are obliged to have a visa and you do not have one
• You are the subject of a deportation order, an exclusion order or similar order
• You do not have a valid passport
• You intend to travel to Great Britain or Northern Ireland and you do not have a right to enter there
• Your entry or presence in Ireland could pose a threat to national security or be contrary to public policy
• You have come to Ireland for a different reason than you have given the immigration officer

If you are refused permission to enter you must be given the reasons in writing.

What happens if I am refused entry to Ireland?

If you are refused permission to enter Ireland, you may be detained in prison .

If your solicitor thinks that the refusal was unlawful, they may apply to court for an injunction to stop you from being deported. This is a type of court order that prevents the deportation from going ahead while the court decides if the refusal was lawful.

You may be deported back to the country where you normally live.

This information is for citizens of countries outside the EEA, Switzerland and the UK.

You may be given permission to enter but with conditions attached. For example, you may only be allowed to stay for a stated period. The immigration officer will stamp your passport with information about the conditions of your stay.

The immigration officer may grant you a visitor permission which allows you to stay for a maximum of 3 months. In certain unforeseen circumstances, this visitor permission may be extended .

If you want to stay in Ireland for longer than this, you must apply for permission to remain by registering with your immigration office.

However, visa-required nationals who have entered Ireland on a C (or ‘short stay’) visa cannot extend their permission to remain, unless they were granted a C visa to join an EEA family member. They must leave and apply for a D visa from outside Ireland if they want to return.

Contact your local immigration office .

If you are living in Dublin, Kildare, Meath or Wicklow contact the Burgh Quay Registration Office.

Burgh Quay Registration Office

Department of Justice 13/14 Burgh Quay Dublin 2 D02 XK70 Ireland

Immigrant Council of Ireland

2 St Andrew Street Dublin 2 Ireland

Nasc Migrant and Refugee Rights

34 Paul Street Cork T12 W14H

Related documents

• Bringing my non-EEA partner to Ireland to get married Outlines how to bring your non-EEA, UK or Swiss partner to Ireland to get married. 1798.6873
• Back to Work Enterprise Allowance If you are getting certain social welfare payments, there are supports to help you become self-employed. Find out about the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance scheme. 1779.3757
• Visa requirements for entering Ireland Citizens of certain countries need a valid Irish entry visa before they arrive in Ireland. Find out whether you need a visa to enter Ireland. 1720.315

If you have a question about this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0818 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm).

You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre .

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Ireland & The Schengen Area: ETIAS Rules

The proposed ETIAS system will probably only apply to the Schengen countries and will not apply to Ireland unless Ireland joins Schengen before ETIAS (which stands for the E.U. Travel Information Authorisation System) officially rolls out at the start of 2025. This is a bit confusing, but basically Ireland controls who enters the country who is not an E.U. citizen, but there is freedom of movement for all E.U. citizens between Ireland and the other E.U. nations. Not every ETIAS detail has been finalised yet, so the situation could change between now and 2025. Note that the information here is only for the Republic of Ireland, not for Northern Ireland, which is part of Britain. An ETIAS will be issued for a period of 3 years, or the date of passport expiry, whichever date is sooner. The ETIAS will cost €7 per applicant.

Is Ireland part of Schengen or the E.U.?

The Republic of Ireland, also called Eire, is not a part of the Schengen zone , but it is part of the E.U. In fact, Ireland is only one of a handful of countries that are in the E.U., but never joined Schengen. This does make it a bit confusing for a lot of people, many Europeans included. The Schengen agreement is designed to provide uniform border rules for all the countries in the zone. Once you have been allowed into 1 Schengen country, you can go to any of the others as long as you don’t exceed the maximum stay of 90 days in the whole zone.

The main reason that some countries didn’t or haven’t yet joined Schengen is because they want to control the immigration status of non E.U. citizens in their own way rather than have the same rules as the rest of Europe.

What are Ireland’s main attractions?

They are many and varied. Ireland, especially the South is a very popular attraction. For many North Americans, Australians and New Zealanders it’s a chance to trace their roots. For every visitor there is something for everyone in the Emerald Isle, from kissing the Blarney Stone, supping Murphy’s or Guinness in a traditional Irish pub to sight-seeing around Ireland’s beautiful countryside and coastline.

It may surprise the average visitor just how uncrowded Ireland is. That’s what makes a leisurely journey around the country so rewarding. Ireland’s complex and at times troubling past is all around for the budding historian. Top attractions include the Cliffs of Moher, County Donegal with its indented coastline and quaint villages and Kilkenny, the ancient capital just out of Dublin.

Will I need an ETIAS?

If you have a passport from one of the E.U. countries the answer is no. If you are not an E.U. passport holder, it seems unlikely at this early stage that you will need one either, but that might be premature. Ireland might decide to join Schengen, or it may decide it is better to use the ETIAS system after considering the possible advantages of screening visitors in advance.

If you have been to Ireland before you will remember what you needed to do or not do before you arrived in the country. Some people might need to get an Irish visa in advance and if that applies to you, it’s unlikely to change. If you can just turn up in Ireland at the moment and get your passport stamped, the chances are that that will continue. Keep an eye on the rules as you get closer to 2025. Also, feel free to take the ETIAS assessment to find out if you’ll likely need a Schengen visa or an ETIAS .

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Everything You Need To Know About the Schengen Visa

I f you’re traveling to Europe, you’ll come across the term “Schengen.” Maybe you’ve seen it while planning your trip, and you’re wondering what it means. If not, you’ll surely notice it upon arriving in most European airports, where “Schengen,” meaning Schengen visa, signs direct some travelers to a different (and usually faster moving) line for passport control.

Not everyone wants to figure out a new and unfamiliar term as they wonder whether to tip or what electrical adapters to bring. Some hearty travelers chalk up all a bit of uncertainty and things to learn as part of the adventure. For others, it can add stress and anxiety that detracts from the joy of travel. If that second group sounds like you, fear not; we’ve got everything you need to know.

What Is the Schengen Visa?

Along with the common currency, the ability for people to travel freely between countries is one of the most visible aspects of the integration at the heart of the European Union (EU) . Five countries signed the first agreement in 1995 in a town called Schengen (hence the name). Today, the agreement includes almost all the countries in the EU plus a few others, commonly called “Schengen Countries” or the “Schengen Area.”

The only EU states outside the Schengen Area are Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania. Ireland opted out because it shares a Common Travel Area with the United Kingdom (which remained outside the Schengen Agreement even before leaving the EU). The other three expect to join eventually, with Romania and Bulgaria joining for air and sea travel in March 2024 , with negotiations continuing over their land borders. Meanwhile, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Lichtenstein, while not EU members, are part of the Schengen Area. This interactive map can help clear things up if all that sounds confusing.

This framework allows EU citizens to travel from country to country without border checks just as easily as Americans cross state lines. It also covers many non-EU nationals visiting as tourists, exchange students, or for business. Participating states maintain controls at their external borders and international airports as part of the agreement. These states also agree to a common visa policy, sometimes called the “Schengen visa.” The Schengen visa allows visitors to travel through participating countries for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period.

Who Needs a Schengen Visa?

Whether you need a visa to visit Schengen countries primarily depends on your country of citizenship/residency. Citizens of  61 countries , including the U.S., Canada, U.K, Australia, Japan, and most of Latin America, don’t need one. You’ll still need your country’s standard passport , and the same 90-day limit in any 180 days applies. You should also make sure to have your passport with you as you travel between countries because authorities can still conduct police checks, and you may need to prove you’re in Europe legally.

Citizens of other countries need a visa to visit and, in some cases, even to pass through an international airport in the Schengen Area. They must apply through the consulate of the Schengen country where they’ll spend the most time or the one they’ll visit first. The European Commission recommends applying at least 15 days before travel. However, 30 to 60 days in advance would be good if the consulate requests additional information.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System

You may also have read or heard about the European Travel Information and Authorization System , or ETIAS, which is now scheduled to go into effect in 2025. An acronym like that might strike some potential travelers as every bit as cryptic as “Schengen” and maybe even more intimidating. Fortunately, for most people, ETIAS only entails one extra step and a relatively small expense.

Much like the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) that the U.S. uses, ETIAS is a preauthorization electronically linked to your passport and not an actual visa. It involves a background check that enables authorities to spot potential security risks (though they’ll only look for serious crimes, so you don’t need to worry about that speeding ticket). At the same time, officials assert that ESTA will streamline your experience with passport control.

Unlike the more robust visa application process, you only need to apply 96 hours before you travel. Instead of contacting a consulate, you use a website or mobile app. An application fee of about $7 applies (depending on the exchange rate), though travelers younger than 18 or older than 70 may be exempt. Fortunately, the authorization lasts for three years or the expiration date of your passport, so you won’t have to apply for every trip you take.

Don’t let terms like Schengen and ETIAS worry or deter you from planning your European vacation. If you’re reading this, you probably don’t need to apply for a Schengen visa, travel from country to country, and enjoy all Europe offers. Now, you can focus on figuring out which electrical adapters to pack!

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Ireland & Schengen: Do I need ETIAS to visit Irish territory?

Ireland has joined the schengen information system (sis ii).

This website does not belong to, nor is it affiliated with, the EU. The official website of the European Union is europa.eu.

• Ireland is part of the European Union but not the Schengen Area.
• Find out why Ireland remains outside the common travel area and how this determines whether or not an ETIAS will be required to visit Ireland.

ETIAS , the European Travel and Information Authorisation System, will be implemented by 2025 . Citizens of over 50 countries will need ETIAS to enter the Schengen zone .

People who wish to travel to Ireland in the future may have questions in regards to the need for an ETIAS to visit Ireland. Is Ireland part of the Schengen zone? Is it a member country of the EU? Isn’t Ireland part of the UK?

ETIAS can be used to visit any of the countries in the Schengen Area . Ireland is not part of the Schengen zone , but it is an EU member country.

It is important to keep in mind that there is a difference between Ireland and Northern Ireland. Only the latter is part of the UK and, as a result, several issues regarding the border between Ireland and the UK have arisen during the Brexit negotiations, more information can be found below.

This article explains everything travellers need to know about Ireland, it’s relationship with the Schengen Area and the ETIAS authorisation.

What is the difference between Ireland and Northern Ireland?

Ireland is not part of the UK . However, while Ireland is not a member of the Schengen Area it's a member of the European Union.

Northern Ireland is part of the UK , officially the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Other countries that encompass the UK are England, Scotland and Wales.

Even if the UK hadn’t voted to leave the EU, ETIAS would not have been valid to travel to the UK , because the UK did not sign the Schengen Agreement. ETIAS will be necessary to travel to the Schengen zone and countries in the process of joining the Schengen zone.

In short, Northern Ireland and Ireland are separate countries . While Ireland will remain part of the EU, Northern Ireland will continue to be part of the United Kingdom.

The Irish border in recent history

To understand the situation better, it is useful to have some understanding of the history of the Irish border. Known internationally as the Northern Ireland Conflict, a political and nationalistic conflict began in the late 1960s fuelled by historical events.

One of the key issues was the constitutional status of Northern Ireland. Unionists and loyalists, mostly Protestants, wanted Northern Ireland to remain in the UK . Irish nationalists and republicans, mostly Catholics, wanted Northern Ireland to join a united Ireland.

The conflict began during a campaign to end discrimination against the Catholic minority by the police force and the Protestant/unionist government. The authorities tried to suppress the campaign and were accused of police brutality.

Violence between the groups led to riots in August 1969 and the deployment of British troops. Additionally, paramilitary organisations emerged and all of these events led to disturbances that lasted three decades.

The border has once again been the focus of political negotiations, this time with regards to Brexit. The Northern Ireland border proved a sticking point for former Prime Minister Theresa May and has continued to cause issues for current PM Boris Johnson.

Only recently, after years of discussions, have the EU and the UK outlined rules aimed at preventing border checks between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland from January 1st.

Why is Ireland not part of the Schengen Area?

Éire, or Ireland, is a member of the European Union , but it has not joined the Schengen Area.

Currently, Ireland and the UK maintain a Common Travel Area with passport-free travel for their citizens and the three British Crown Dependencies of Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man, which are not part of the European Union.

In the case of Gibraltar, the territory will be part of the Schengen scheme after the agreements reached by the United Kingdom and the European Union for the post-Brexit era.

The UK declined to sign up to the Schengen Agreement arguing that for an island nation, frontier controls are a better way to prevent illegal immigration than other measures.

Ireland, for its part, did not want to sign the Schengen Agreement because it "would not be in the interest of Ireland to have a situation where the common travel area with Britain would be ended and Ireland would impose both exit and entry controls on persons travelling between here and Britain and, in addition, on the land frontier".

In conclusion, the main reason Ireland did not join the Schengen Agreement is because they wish to control the immigration status of non EU citizens. Ireland is not part of mainland Europe , and it made sense for the country to control their borders the way they see fit.

Schengen visa and ETIAS

The Schengen Agreement was designed to provide uniform border rules for all its member countries. The Schengen visa, for instance, grants its holders a stay of up to 90 days in the region. Meaning, a Schengen visa can be used to travel around the countries that signed the agreement for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period .

ETIAS is not a replacement of the Schengen visa . ETIAS is a visa waiver for citizens of countries that are exempt from visa requirements to the Schengen Area.

Will I need ETIAS to visit Ireland or not?

The straight answer is no, you will not need an ETIAS visa waiver to travel to Ireland . The ETIAS travel authorisation only grants entry to Schengen countries. This does not include Ireland. ETIAS is also for countries in the process of joining Schengen, like Cyprus .

However, non-EU citizens who wish to make the most of their trip and visit other European nations such as Italy , Spain, or France, will need to acquire an ETIAS permit.

Citizens of over 50 countries will be eligible for ETIAS when it comes out in 2025 .

Travellers heading to Ireland must check the entry requirements based on their nationality. Other permits may be required to visit Northern Ireland or any country in the United Kingdom.

Ireland and the Schengen Information System

The EU recently approved Ireland’s connection to the Schengen Information System. From 15th March 2021, Ireland has access to SIS II , Europe’s largest and most widely used IT security system.

An Garda Síochána, the national police service of the Republic of Ireland, will share information on missing persons and stolen or lost objects and vehicles with 30 participating countries.

This is a major security boost as the data can be used to detect potentially dangerous individuals attempting to enter Ireland and locate sought after people and objects elsewhere in Europe.

The An Garda Síochána PULSE system and the Garda National Immigration Bureau databases are being integrated with SIS II to better detect and prevent serious crime . Ireland will remain outside the Schengen common travel zone but will benefit from the increased safety and security of shared knowledge.

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7 non-schengen countries you can explore with a Schengen visa

TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD Created : Jun 13, 2024, 09:00 IST

7 non-Schengen countries you can explore with a Schengen visa

A multiple-entry Schengen visa allows one to access 29 countries within the Schengen Zone — which we already know. However, did you know that this visa also offers you the remarkable ability to travel globally? Well, up to 67 countries allow Indian travellers to enter with this document. Note that there are specific conditions, and visa regulations can change without notice, so always confirm with the visa office of your destination country. So, here is a list of some non-Schengen countries you can visit with a valid Schengen visa.

Türkiye

Visa information : Indian passport holders with a valid Schengen visa can apply for a single-entry e-visa valid for one month via the official Turkish e-visa website, provided they meet certain conditions such as having a return ticket, hotel reservation, and sufficient financial means.

Türkiye, straddling Europe and Asia, offers a rich blend of cultures, historical landmarks like Hagia Sophia, and vibrant cities such as Istanbul and Ankara.

Saudi Arabia

Visa information : Travellers can obtain a visa on arrival upon presenting a Schengen visa, as long as it’s been used at least once. This visa allows a 90-day stay during a validity period of 365 days.

Saudi Arabia, with its modern cities and ancient archaeological sites, offers a unique travel experience. Visitors can explore the futuristic city of Riyadh, the historical city of Jeddah, and the ancient Nabatean city of Al-Ula.

Visa information : Travellers who have a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa are permitted to remain in Montenegro for a maximum of 30 days, with a yearly limit of 180 days, without the need for an additional visa.

Montenegro, known for its rugged mountains and mediaeval villages, is a gem of the Balkans. Highlights include the Bay of Kotor, Durmitor National Park, and the coastal town of Budva.

Visa information : Entry and stay up to 90 days during a six-month period with a valid Schengen visa. Serbia, located in the heart of the Balkans, offers a mix of vibrant city life and scenic natural beauty. The capital, Belgrade, is famous for its lively nightlife, while the country’s national parks, such as Tara and Djerdap, provide stunning natural retreats.

Visa information : Travellers can obtain a single-entry visa for 30 days within three months with a valid Schengen visa.

Egypt, home to the ancient pyramids and the Nile River, is a destination rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore the bustling city of Cairo, the historic temples of Luxor, and the serene beaches of the Red Sea.

Visa information : A valid multiple-entry Schengen visa allows for a stay of 30 days, not exceeding 180 days per year.

Aruba, a Caribbean island, is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy the capital, Oranjestad, with its colourful Dutch colonial architecture, or relax on the famous Eagle Beach.

Visa information : Travellers from India, Thailand, and six additional nations are eligible for visa-free entry to Colombia if they possess a Schengen or US visa.

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Schengen Visa Fee increased as of 11 June 2024

Every three years, the Commission assesses the need for revising the visa fees and according to the Visa Code can increase them based on a list of “objective criteria”. This includes Euro area annual inflation rate and the average salary of a civil servant in EU countries.

As of 11 June 2024 , the fee for a Schengen visa has raised from EUR 80 to EUR 90 for adults and from EUR 40 to EUR 45 for children aged six to below 12 years. The fee for nationals of Cabo Verde under the corresponding visa facilitation agreement has increased from EUR 60 to EUR 67,50. Visa fees under other visa facilitation agreements remain the same EUR 35. 

The income generated through visa applications will be reinvested into making available more resources, including staff for processing visa applications. This should decrease the waiting time for appointments for a Schengen visa.

Figures published by the European Commission show that the consulates of EU countries and Schengen associated countries received more than 10.3 million applications for short-stay visas in 2023. This is a 37% increase compared to 2022 (7.5 million).

Find out more

Visa applications reach 10.3 million in EU- and Schengen Associated Countries

Visa policy

Applying for a Schengen visa

The Schengen area explained

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