Ireland Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

All foreign passengers to Ireland must be able to show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the county. Additionally, passengers should hold return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, as immigration officers might demand that they demonstrate proof of their intention to leave Ireland. If the traveler's passport bears a British inadmissable stamp, unless the immigration officer is convinced that they will NOT travel on to the United Kingdom, entry may be refused to Ireland. Note that all visitors need to contact the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), if their stay in Ireland exceeds their visa-free period, or their stay is longer than the period for which their visa is valid. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Americans

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required.

UK Nationals

British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Ireland. Passport exemptions apply to holders of proof of nationality issued to nationals of Ireland and British subjects, for travel between Ireland and Great Britain and Northern Ireland only. No visa is required for holders of British passports endorsed British Citizen, British National (Overseas) or British Overseas Territories Citizen.

Canadians

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required.

Australians

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required.

South Africans

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required.

New Zealanders

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Ireland. No visa is required.

Healthcare

There are no special health requirements for visitors to Ireland. Health insurance is advisable unless from the UK or other EU countries, most of which have reciprocal agreements with Ireland. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be obtained before departing for travel to Ireland. Medical facilities are good, and payment for treatment is usually required in cash.

Safety

Most visitors to Ireland enjoy a fairly high level of personal safety. However, travelers should take sensible precautions against petty theft. Terrorism is no more a threat than in other Western countries.