Planning a trip to Ireland? Whether you’re visiting Dublin’s vibrant streets, the Wild Atlantic Way, or family and friends, here’s the latest official guidance (updated 2025) on passports, visas, and travel permissions.
Do You Need a Visa?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality:
- No visa required: Citizens of the EU/EEA, Switzerland, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries can enter Ireland without a visa for up to 90 days.
- Visa required: Citizens of countries not on the Irish visa-free list must apply for a Short Stay “C” Visa before traveling.
- Short Stay Visa Waiver Scheme (valid until 31 Oct 2026): Certain nationals (e.g., India, China, Russia, Gulf States) with a valid UK short-stay visa can also visit Ireland without an Irish visa.
Passport Requirements
- A valid passport is required for most travelers.
- Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay (and ideally 6 months beyond departure).
- UK & Irish citizens: No passport required – other official photo ID is accepted.
- From 2 April 2025, anyone traveling to Northern Ireland (directly or via Ireland) may need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This does not apply to travel within the Republic of Ireland.
1. Short Stay ``C`` Visa (Tourist / Visit)
- Stay: Up to 90 days.
- Purpose: Tourism, visiting family/friends, short study courses.
- Not allowed: Work (paid or unpaid), access to public services.
Application process:
- Complete the online form on AVATS portal.
- Print, sign, and send summary sheet + documents to an Irish Embassy/Consulate/Visa Office.
- Pay fee: €60 (single entry) / €100 (multiple entry).
- Processing time: Usually up to 8 weeks.
Required documents include:
- Passport + copies of previous passports.
- Bank statements (6 months).
- Flight booking + accommodation details or invitation letter from a host in Ireland.
- Proof of ties to home country (job, school, family).
- Travel insurance (may be requested).
- Two passport photos.
2. Work & Study Visas
- Working Holiday Authorisation (WHA) – available to certain nationalities.
- Employment Permits – required for most non-EU nationals.
- Study Visa – for long-term courses.
On Arrival in Ireland
Even with a visa, entry is not guaranteed. At border control, you must show:
- Passport & visa (if required).
- Proof of funds and accommodation.
- Return/onward ticket.
If approved, you’ll receive a landing stamp stating how long you can stay (usually 90 days).
Key Travel Updates (2025)
- UK ETA Scheme: From April 2, 2025, travelers who don’t need a visa for the UK but plan to visit Northern Ireland must apply for a UK ETA.
- EU ID Cards: EU citizens can still use ID cards for Ireland, but not for Northern Ireland after April 2025.
- Visa Waiver Scheme extended until 31 October 2026.
Quick Travel Checklist
- ✔️ Check if you need a visa.
- ✔️ Passport valid through your stay.
- ✔️ Book flights & accommodation (or arrange host letter).
- ✔️ Print and carry supporting documents.
- ✔️ Apply early (8 weeks before travel recommended).
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