What documents are required to enter Ireland?

Ireland

Before you start your Irish journey, it is crucial to understand the required documents to enter Ireland. Whether you are travelling from the European Economic Area (EEA), the United Kingdom (UK), or beyond, Ireland has specific rules and regulations regarding who can cross their borders.

Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area. In other words, unlike countries within this area, Ireland has its own entry requirements. EEA citizens will have to show either their passport or national identity card to enter Ireland.

In the following guide, we will check the required documents to visit Ireland and to discover Dublin and beyond by car. Get ready for some insights and tips to help you start your journey with no setbacks:

Passport requirements

When planning your trip to the Irish Republic, your passport must meet the necessary requirements. This means that your passport has to be valid for the duration of your holidays, check its expiration date before you start your trip. If your passport is expiring soon or has already done so, renew it before your trip. Here are some tips for your renewal process:

Check your passport’s expiration date

Verify the expiration date to ensure it is still valid throughout your trip. Most countries require the 6-month rule, which states that passports have to be valid for at least six months beyond the departure date.

Renewal process

If you checked your passport, and the expiration date is approaching, or has already passed, you will need to renew it before travelling to Ireland. The renewal process is different in each country, but it usually involves submitting an application form, providing ID/passport photos, and paying a fee (also depends on each country). Start the process as soon as possible, as passport renewal may take several weeks.

Expedited services

These services aren’t available in every country. But, in some cases, you can speed up processing time, by paying for an additional fee, and ensure you receive your passport in time.

Emergency situations

If you face an emergency situation where your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact the nearest police station, embassy or consulate for help. They can guide you, and help you get an emergency passport or other travel documents.

EEA, UK and Swiss citizens

For citizens of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the UK, visiting Ireland is pretty easy. EEA and Swiss citizens must have a valid passport or national identity card to enter Ireland. Within the EEA, individuals have the right to move freely. However, there are exceptions, such as individuals with contagious diseases or those whose behaviour poses a risk to public security.

UK citizens benefit from the Common Travel Area agreement (CTA), which allows for free movement between Ireland and the UK. This means that UK citizens can travel to Ireland without the need for a visa. The CTA covers England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, The Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

Non Swiss, UK and EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside the EEA, Switzerland, and the UK, must obtain permission to enter the country. This often entails obtaining a visa. However, it's essential to note that having a valid visa doesn't guarantee entry into Ireland; individuals still need to seek permission upon arrival at the entry.

The visa requirement changes depending on the purpose of travel. If visiting Ireland for a short period, individuals should be ready to present evidence of financial means to support themselves and any dependents, proof of accommodation arrangements, and a return ticket to their home country. Additionally, if you are planning to make an international trip and cross the UK's border, you must obtain permission to enter the UK before coming to Ireland.

Driving licence and car rental

Driving licence and International Driving Permits (IDP) general information

When planning to explore Ireland by car, it's essential to understand the driving licence and car rental requirements for tourists. To drive legally in Ireland, you'll need either a national driving licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP). It's mandatory to carry with you your driver's licence while driving in the Republic of Ireland. Additionally, you must have car insurance either in your name or listed as a driver on someone else's policy.

Fortunately, tourists from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and European Union member states, will not need an IDP. However, drivers from other countries can only use their current licence for up to 12 months before obtaining an Irish licence.

Ireland’s driving rules and regulations

Regardless of your origin, it's crucial to follow Ireland's driving rules. In Ireland, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for all occupants. Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs is forbidden, with huge penalties for violations. Furthermore, using a cellphone while driving is prohibited.

The road network in Ireland is made up of motorways, dual carriageways and country lanes. In the Republic of Ireland, motorways appear with an "M," while national roads have an "N". The distances and speed limit signs are displayed in kilometres. Plus, signs and place names appear in Irish (Gaelic) and English.

Health and medical documents

When visiting Ireland, it's essential to understand the public health services available to you as a visitor. The entitlement to free or subsidised healthcare changes depending on your country of origin.

For visitors from outside the EEA, Switzerland, and the UK, access to public health services is not usually covered. In such cases, visitors must pay the full cost of any medical service. It is advisable to purchase travel insurance to cover any possible medical expenses.

However, if you are visiting Ireland from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access healthcare. With an EHIC, necessary medical treatment in Ireland is available free of charge. It's important to note that EHIC only covers public healthcare services and not private healthcare.

UK citizens visiting Ireland can access healthcare services under the CTA. Visitors from the UK should bring evidence of their UK citizenship when seeking medical assistance in Ireland.

Tips when renting a car in Ireland

When renting a car in Ireland, it's essential to have all your documentation on hand. Unlike some countries, Ireland does not issue ID cards, so relying on this form of identification may lead to problems. To avoid any setbacks, be sure to bring your passport, ID, driving licence, the payment card used for booking, and your rental voucher. Having all these documents available ensures you have everything you may need.

Once you're driving, be sure to follow Ireland's driving rules and regulations, driving safely at all times. Keep your rental agreement, driver's licence, and any other documents securely stowed throughout your journey.