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Visas and permission to enter Ireland

Student visas to study in Ireland People from certain countries who wish to study in Ireland require visas. Find out more.

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.

Permission to enter Ireland All non-EEA nationals need permission to enter Ireland, even if they are not required to have a visa to enter Ireland.

Visas for tourists visiting Ireland Information about coming to Ireland for a short stay (less than 90 days).

Visas for people visiting Ireland on business Certain people who wish to travel to Ireland for business purposes require visas. Find out more.

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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 March 2021 and updated March 2024

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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 .

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U.S. Embassy Dublin 42 Elgin Rd Ballsbridge Dublin 4 Ireland Telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777 Emergency after-hours telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777 Fax: +(353) (1) 668-8056 Email: [email protected]

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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.

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
• 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 may 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.

Special Circumstances: 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

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

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very 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: Special 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 .

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.

We do 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.

Further health information:

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

Air Quality: Visit AirNow  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

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 several 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 road blocks 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 ; this can be for any period of time 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: Taxi rates vary with 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.

• Intercity bus and train services are generally good.
• Local bus service in the cities is 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.

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 also 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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Accessibility, travel documentation, food and drink, ireland: fast facts.

The island of Ireland is made up of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Dublin is the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland.

The population of the island of Ireland is around 6.9 million (5 million in the Republic of Ireland, 1.9 million in Northern Ireland).

English is the main language spoken on the island of Ireland but you'll also hear Irish and Ullans (Gaelic Scots) spoken in some areas.

Yes, Ireland can be a great destination for visitors with reduced mobility or those with other disabilities. Many attractions, accommodation providers, restaurants, pubs and transport providers are wheelchair accessible and offer a range of supports and services to people with hearing and visual impairments, and those with autism and intellectual disabilities. And improvements are being made all the time.

Accommodation

Lots of accommodation providers offer accessible rooms, but as these rooms are limited, it’s best to book well in advance of your stay. Facilities vary so ask your accommodation provider for details or consider requesting photographs so you know exactly what you’ll be getting.

Some premises, such as heritage properties and castles have limited accessibility as they are protected structures but do contact them to ask if they might be suitable for your needs. A great resource is Disabled Friendly Hotels , which includes travel tips and a list of over 50 hotels around the island of Ireland, compiled by Philip Quinlan of Spinal Injuries Ireland.

Transportation

You’ve got some options here. You can hire a vehicle for your stay. Motability Ireland offers wheelchair-accessible vehicles and adapted automatic cars so you can start your Ireland road trip right away.

You can hire a guide/private driver  to show you around, giving you a chance to sit back and enjoy the view. You can book your whole trip through a tour operator who specialises in accessible travel and will look after everything from itinerary planning to accommodation and transport.

You can also use Ireland’s public transport network to explore the island. Buses are generally accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Trains, including the DART commuter train in Dublin, have designated spaces for passengers with disabilities, as does Dublin’s Luas tram system.

However, some stations may not be accessible so you may need to plan your route and check it will be suitable for your needs. Wheelchair accessible taxis can also be booked.

Transport for Ireland and Translink in Northern Ireland have lots of useful information on accessibility and public transport around the island. And you can use the TFI Journey Planner to help you plan.

Things to see and do

From popular visitor attractions and cosy pubs to golden beaches and tranquil greenways, there are lots of things to see and do on your Ireland trip. While there are still improvements to be made, more and more experiences are ensuring that they are accessible to people with disabilities. However, it’s always a good idea to check accessibility before you visit by calling ahead or checking online.

And remember…

If you need help or advice either before or during your trip to Ireland, don't be afraid to ask. People will be more than happy to offer whatever assistance they can! For more tips, there are some excellent resources on our Accessibility in Ireland  page.

Yes, many of Ireland’s top visitor attractions are accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with disabilities, which means that everyone can experience the best of what the island has to offer.

If you’re interested in adding a site to your Ireland itinerary, we suggest you check out its website. Many attractions have detailed accessibility information about the services and supports they offer, such as sensory maps, visual guides, Braille guides, accessible parking spaces and free entry for disabled visitors and their carers. We’ve picked just a few from around the island...

A visit to Trinity College Dublin to view the famous Book of Kells is a must. You can enjoy a fully accessible tour around the 16th century campus before experiencing the immersive Book of Kells Experience.

History buffs will find three branches of the National Museum of Ireland in the city, all largely wheelchair accessible and offering audio-visual aids and audio guides.

No visit to Dublin would be complete without a stop at the Guinness Storehouse , home of Ireland’s famous black beer. The whole experience is wheelchair accessible – including an accessible tap to ensure you can pull your own pint of Guinness. Handheld text, audio and international sign language guide devices and sensory maps are also available for free.

If you’re heading up to Belfast, Titanic Belfast is a great spot that honours the city’s proud position as the birthplace of Titanic. The building is wheelchair accessible, and audio guides and guides with sign language visuals are available for visitors with sight or hearing impairments.

Other great options are the Ulster Museum , the MAC arts centre and Crumlin Road Gaol – all of which offer a range of supports for visitors with special needs.

One of the island of Ireland’s most popular attractions is the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway on the north coast.

The visitor centre has a range of accessibility features that make it suitable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. An induction loop is in place for those with hearing aids, and audio guides are available for those with visual impairments. The Green Path is wheelchair accessible and offers stunning views of the iconic stone formations.

Other great places to visit include the Game of Thrones Studio Tour , where accessible facilities and specially trained staff make sure everyone can enjoy the experience, and the famous city walls in Derry~Londonderry , which can be accessed by wheelchair users via a ramp.

This coastal touring route hugs the rugged west coast of Ireland, offering dramatic sea views at almost every turn. Many of its stunning beaches now offer beach wheelchairs and accessible parking spaces .

You’ll find accessible boat tours to unique places such as Skellig Michael, and the iconic Cliffs of Moher offer an excellent experience for visitors with disabilities. The viewing platform is wheelchair accessible and electric buggies are also available for those with limited mobility.

Don’t miss the Beyond the Trees Avondale experience in County Wicklow, where the Treetop Walk and the Viewing Tower are both fully accessible for wheelchair users.

If you’re visiting the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, you may need to contact staff in advance to ensure access.

The impressive megalithic passage grave known as Newgrange in County Meath has a fully accessible visitor centre with immersive exhibitions but access to the passage tomb itself is limited due to the nature of the monument.

The River Shannon flows through Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and a lovely way to experience it is to take a boat tour. In fact, you can board the Viking Tours boat in Athlone (contact staff beforehand to arrange) and sail down the river towards the important 6th century monastery at Clonmacnoise .

The site here may not be suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility as the ground can be rough but the visitor centre is wheelchair accessible and audio-visual guides are available.

The whiskey distillery tour at Tullamore D.E.W. is fully accessible and will give a great insight into the rich distilling heritage of the island of Ireland.

If you’re on a budget for your Ireland holiday, don’t worry – no matter what kind of accommodation you’re looking for, you can find good value all around the island.

First up, look at hostels  – always a great option for budget travellers. Ireland has lots of great hostels all around the island, so whether you’re on a city break or a rural road trip, you don’t have to blow your budget on accommodation.

Most hostels offer private rooms (some with private bathrooms) if a dormitory option doesn’t appeal to you. But you’ll need to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Depending on the time of year you’re travelling, you might consider camping . By pitching your tent in one of the many scenic campsites around the island, you’ll be able to keep your accommodation budget under control and also get as close to nature as you could possibly desire.

Ireland is rightly famous for its B&Bs  (bed & breakfasts), which offer a warm Irish welcome that visitors love. You’ll find B&Bs all around the island and in all price ranges, from one to five-star so you’re sure to find something that suits your pocket.

Self-catering is another option to consider – particularly if you’re travelling with others as you can split the cost among the group. Again, you’ll find options that range from high-end luxury to cheap and cheerful. Many are also pet-friendly, which is useful if you’re travelling with the family pet.

Don’t assume that hotels  are out of the question just because you’re on a budget. They’re often more affordable than you might think, particularly in the off-season. Look at the star rating (one to five-star) to get an indication of the price range.

And check directly with the hotels to see if they have any deals on offer, such as mid-week breaks or discounts for booking multiple nights.

Simply put, high demand and supply shortages have led to higher car rental prices in Ireland. But this doesn’t have to put a dent in your holiday plans because it’s easy to have a great holiday in Ireland without a car.

You can use Ireland’s public transport system  (buses, trains, trams) to explore the island, while saving on costs AND reducing your carbon footprint.

Trains are a great way of travelling between cities and large towns.

Buses  will help you get off the beaten track a little more as they service small villages and rural communities.

Dublin’s tram system, known as the Luas , is great for navigating the city.

City bike-sharing schemes  are also really useful for getting around cities including Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway and Limerick.

Speaking of cycling, a lot of people combine bike hire with public transport on their Ireland holiday. Just take the train or bus to your chosen destination and then hire a bike so you can continue to explore at your own pace. There are lots of private bike rental companies that offer a wide range of bikes, including e-bikes.

Another useful tip is to look for private operators who run organised tours  to popular visitor attractions – they’re a hassle-free way of seeing the sights.

Visit the Transport for Ireland website where you’ll find all the information you need about getting around Ireland, including a journey planner and information on fares.

Where to stay, where to eat, what to see and do, and how to save: we’ve got some great tips for doing Ireland on a budget.

You can opt for budget-friendly hostels  and B&Bs  to save some euros. Self-catering  accommodation is also great for bigger groups as you can split the costs. And do check out hotels , too, as there are often deals for longer and mid-week stays.

We’ve got a great guide to dining out on a budget in Ireland  that covers everything from street food and picnics to early-bird deals and pub grub.

Avoid high car rental costs by opting for public transport  and making use of Ireland’s bus and rail network to go exploring.

Travel cards such as the iLink in Northern Ireland, the Leap Visitor Card   in Dublin and surrounding counties, and the Belfast Visitor Card offer great savings on travel, as well as discounts on tours and entry to popular attractions, and offers in shops and restaurants.

Find out the places you can visit that are completely FREE! Lots of museums, art galleries, and libraries  around the island offer amazing cultural experiences that won’t cost you a cent.

Self-guided walking tours allow you to explore at your own pace and without putting your hand in your pocket.

And nature is always free of charge – whether you’re visiting the resident deer in Dublin’s Phoenix Park, following the walking trails along the stunning Causeway Coastal Route or dipping your toe in the bracing waters of the Atlantic Ocean on a sandy Wild Atlantic Way beach.

When it comes to entertainment, you can enjoy the unique atmosphere of an Irish pub , often with a bonus traditional music session for the price of a drink.

Theatre  tickets tend to be reasonably priced in Ireland, particularly in smaller and regional theatres, and you can also look out for discounted prices for previews.

If you come at festival time  (which is pretty much all year round in Ireland) you can often catch free events, workshops, concerts, and more so it’s worth keeping an eye on what’s on during your stay.

The simple answer is: it depends on where you’re travelling from.

Most people need a valid passport to enter the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and many will also need a visa, but there are exceptions:

British citizens don’t need a passport or visa to travel to the island of Ireland as both the UK and Ireland of part of the Common Travel Area. However, they will need official photo identification.

EU citizens (as well as citizens from Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein) can travel to the island of Ireland (including Northern Ireland) without a passport or visa as long as they arrive at and depart from the Republic of Ireland.

They will just need a national identity card. However, those citizens will need a passport if they’re travelling directly to Northern Ireland or travelling on to Great Britain from Northern Ireland.

Travellers from the rest of the world will need a valid passport to travel to the island of Ireland. Whether you also need a visa will depend on where you’re travelling from – find out more about visa requirements for the island of Ireland .

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) From the end of 2024, all travellers (except British and Irish nationals, and eligible residents of Ireland) will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK, including Northern Ireland, and also travel to Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland.

Photo identification Air and sea carriers require some form of photo identification (usually either a passport or driving licence), so ALWAYS check what form of ID is required with your individual airline, ferry company or travel agent before travelling.

You can apply online for a visa to visit the Republic of Ireland at the INIS (Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service) website .

If you’re coming for a holiday or short break (less than 90 days), you’ll most likely need a Short-Stay “C” tourist visa.

You can apply online for a visa to visit Northern Ireland at the GOV.UK website .

If you’re coming for a holiday or short break (up to six months), you’ll most likely need a Standard Visitor visa.

No, you don’t need a passport to cross the border from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland and vice versa.

However, you should check before your trip whether you need a visa to travel to the island of Ireland ( Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland ).

From the end of 2024, all travellers (except British and Irish nationals, and eligible residents of Ireland) will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK, including Northern Ireland, and also travel to Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland.

Absolutely! Most restaurants in Ireland have vegetarian options on their menus, and many are vegan-friendly and suitable for gluten-free diners.

They will also have detailed information about allergens on their menus so your allergies won’t keep you from enjoying amazing food during your trip.

More and more people in Ireland are opting for a plant-based or vegetarian diet so there is no shortage of options when you’re eating out.

Cities and larger towns will offer restaurants that specialise in vegan and vegetarian fare.

But even once you get off the beaten track, you’ll find that restaurants, coffee shops and pubs will have a surprising range of suitable foods, from gluten-free baked goods to vegan burgers. If you don’t see anything on the menu, just ask. Most places are happy to accommodate.

If you’re currently planning your trip and looking for ideas, here are some recommendations for vegetarian and vegan options in Belfast , Dublin and around Ireland .

The Happy Cow is a great resource, too, with hundreds of veggie eateries listed with contact details and user reviews.

Let’s start with the most important one: Guinness, Ireland’s most famous export, is now vegan-friendly. Good news for anyone who wants to enjoy a pint or visit the Guinness Storehouse during a trip to Ireland.

In fact, you’ll find that a lot of Ireland’s craft beers, ales and ciders are suitable for vegans, as are famous whiskeys, such as Bushmills and Jameson .

So those microbrewery visits and distillery tours  are back on the itinerary!

Grocery shopping is also easy, thanks to dedicated sections in supermarkets offering a variety of dairy-free, egg-free, and gluten-free products.

Many popular supermarket brands now offer a range of vegan options, including plant-based ready meals, pizzas, and sandwiches. Just look for the vegan symbol on the label, and you’ll find plenty to choose from.

You can also check out health food shops and don’t forget to stop by a farmers’ market  – where you’ll find the very freshest vegetables and a range of artisan food producers.

The Irish Vegan website is a great resource for finding vegan-friendly shops around the island.

Ireland really does have a festival  for everything and vegan food is no exception.

Visit Belfast during the Irish Vegan Festival or check out Dublin Veg Fest and you’ll find the best of vegan cuisine, as well as talks and workshops.

Pretty much anywhere around the island of Ireland. Traditional food is an integral part of Ireland’s culture and you’ll find it in restaurants, pubs, food trucks, coffee shops and food markets wherever you go. Here are some perennial favourites to look out for:

Potato boxty: try Holohan’s Pantry in Belfast for this traditional potato cake.

Corned beef: taste the real deal, served with parsley sauce and green cabbage, at Gallagher’s Boxty House in Dublin’s Temple Bar.

Irish stew: Try Gleeson’s of Roscommon town for the best Irish stew, a bowl of slow-cooked Irish lamb, potato, carrot and barley, perfect for its simplicity.

Smoked fish: sample a selection of smoked mackerel and salmon at the Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna, County Clare.

Ulster Fry: a cooked breakfast of bacon, black and white pudding, tomato, sausages, potato farl (potato bread) and soda bread (a traditional bread). Maggie May’s in Belfast is famous for its impressive breakfasts.

Native oysters: heaven is a half dozen local oysters and a pint of Guinness at the Mourne Seafood Bar , County Down.

Spiced beef: better loved by the Irish than corned beef (which was traditionally exported), you’ll find this tasty treat at Tom Durcan’s stall in Cork’s English Market.

The blaa: a fresh bread roll unique to Waterford and best eaten mid-morning filled with bacon. Try it at Walsh’s Bakery in Waterford city.

Seafood chowder: you’ll find versions of Ireland’s take on seafood chowder in most coastal towns, but Nancy’s Barn in County Donegal nailed it as the standard to beat at the All-Ireland Chowder Championship. It’s essential to enjoy chowder with traditional brown bread. 

Coddle: this hearty dish of sausages, bacon and potatoes is a Dublin favourite and is best served in one of the city’s traditional pubs such as the Gravediggers (John Kavanagh’s) in Glasnevin.

Black pudding (blood sausage): black (and white) pudding can be found everywhere, but Clonakilty’s recipe hasn’t changed since the 1800s and is a must-try. Drop into the Clonakilty Black Pudding Visitor Centre in this buzzing Cork town to sample it for yourself.

Your ultimate Ireland guide

From passports to pets to public transport, if you've got questions, you'll find the answers you need in our guide to getting on in Ireland.

Need more information?

Travelling around the Island of Ireland is simple, navigate coast to coast in a matter of hours, or hop between major attractions via public transport.

Embassy of Ireland, Great Britain

Please be advised that the Embassy of Ireland, Great Britain website has moved and this page is no longer being updated. The Embassy website is now available at  Ireland.ie/london .

Visa Information

Update 30/10/2023 - Christmas & New Year Travel

**Christmas & New Year Travel**

Please note that the Visa Office cannot guarantee that any Visit Visa application made at a Visa Application Centre (operated by VFS) later than the 17/11/23 will be processed in time for travel by 22/12/23. Those seeking to travel earlier than 22/12/23 should tailor their submission time accordingly.

Similarly, postal applicants from Northern Ireland, IoM and the Channel Islands should send their applications by tracked post on or before 17/11/23 to meet a travel date of 22/12/23.

Update 2nd March 2023 .

Please note that, on a temporary basis, VFS can only facilitate ‘walk-in’ customers at their Visa Application Centres (VACs) in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff & Edinburgh, between 08.30 am to 11.00am. It is not possible to make reserved appointment on-line.

Update 30th November 2022.

We are pleased to advise that the Visa Office at the Embassy of Ireland, London, can now facilitate Irish Working Holiday Authorisation (WHA) applications for New Zealand citizens who are currently in the UK, on the same basis as for Australian citizens.

Further information can be found  here .

Visas for Ireland

Please note that it is only permitted to apply for an Irish visa to the Embassy of Ireland in London if you are legally resident in the UK. Those in the UK on temporary visas (e.g. tourism) cannot apply for an Irish visa through this Embassy. Applicants for Irish visas worldwide must do so from their country of ordinary residence, in advance of travel, and in accordance with the arrangements in place for visa applications for that country.

As such, this page contains information for permanent residents of the UK who may require a visa to travel to Ireland. Please be aware that possession of a residence permission in the UK has no bearing on the requirement for a visa to travel to Ireland.

Ireland is not a member of the Schengen Area. An Irish visa does not permit travel to the Schengen Area, nor does a visa issued by a country in the Schengen Area allow for travel to Ireland.

The Visa Office at the Embassy of Ireland caters for visa required non-EEA citizens who wish to visit Ireland, not for Irish citizens who may require visas to travel internationally. Irish citizens who wish to ascertain if they need a visa for a third country can find information  here .

Australian & New Zealand Citizens who wish to avail of a Working Holiday Authorisation (WHA) in Ireland can find information  here .

Who needs a visa

You need to check if you need an Irish visa on the  website of the Irish Immigration Service .

Please note that Ireland is not party to the Schengen Agreement, and a Schengen visa or residence permit does  not  entitle you to travel to Ireland without a visa.

Unless you qualify for the  short stay visa waiver programme or have a visa issued as part of the British Irish Visa Scheme (BIVS) , a valid UK visa does  not  entitle you to travel to Ireland without a visa.

How To Apply

You should apply for a visa in good time before you travel. You are advised  not  to pay for a travel ticket before you receive a decision on your visa.

Submitting your application

1. Complete the  online application form . 2. Refer to the checklists available in the 'Types of Visa and Documentation' section of this website and gather your supporting documentation 3. Submit your signed application form and supporting documents to the appropriate office

If you live in England, Scotland or Wales you need to submit your application by attending VFS Global in person at one of the following Irish Visa Application Centres. It is not possible to make an appointment on-line at present. Please attend in person, without an appointment, from 08.30 to 11.00am, at the Irish Visa Application Centre of your choice.   

If you live in  Northern Ireland , the  Channel Islands  or the  Isle of Man,  you should submit your application by sending a tracked post envelope to the following address:

Visa Office,

Ground Floor,

114A Cromwell Road,

You should ensure that you note the tracking number of the envelope used to send your documents to this office.

4. Decisions will be made on applications in date order from the date received in the Embassy of Ireland Visa Office. Due to the volume of applications received it is not possible to provide an update on individual applications. However, we do publish target processing time information under the visa processing times category. We also publish a  Weekly Decision Report  so you can check if a decision has been made on your application.

Please Note

All supporting documentation should be in English or accompanied by a notarised translation . Failure to translate your documents into English may result in your visa application being refused. It is not sufficient to send in copies of your documents. All documentation submitted must be original and verifiable (e.g.) employment/study details, accommodation bookings must have correct contact details on each document. If this Office is unable to verify the information supplied this may result in your visa being refused.

Remember…

The onus is on you, the applicant, to ensure that your application is fully complete before submitting it for consideration.  You should note that if you submit an incomplete application, it may result in your application being refused.

 If you have been refused a visa for any country, details of this must be given in your application. Submit a copy of the visa decision letter issued to you by the authorities of that country, including a notarised translation if not in English.  Concealment or non-submission of previous visa refusals will result in your Irish visa application being refused.

Please note that if you provide false, fraudulent or misleading information or documentation, your application will be refused. You may also lose the right to appeal the decision. Any future applications made by you may also be refused, or you may be prevented from making further Irish Visa applications for up to 5 years.

If deemed necessary, additional documentation / information may be requested by the Deciding Officer upon detailed examination of the application.

If you submit false or misleading information in support of your application, you may become liable for prosecution and/or deportation.

Types of Visa and Documentation

The following  checklists  outline the requirements of the most common types of visa applications

• Visit Visa  
• ‌ Business Visa ‌
• Conference Visa
• Exam or Interview Visa
• Performance Visa
• Employment Visa  
• Join Spouse (Employment Permit)
• Student Information
• Join Family Information

Further information on travelling to Ireland on a short or long term basis, and the documentation involved, can be found on the  website of the Irish Immigration Service .

Payment Details and Fees

Visa Application Fees

Some applicants are required to pay a visa application fee, while others are exempt. Please refer  here  for information.

If you are resident in the UK and you are a national of a country included in the Irish Visa Waiver Programme you require a separate Irish visa but you are not required to pay an application fee. Details of the countries included in the programme can be found  here .

For those applicants required to pay a fee, the following amounts are currently applied by the Visa Office in London:.

Visa fees are paid in local currency – i.e. pounds sterling. Fees may vary from time to time to take account of currency changes

If you live in England, Scotland or Wales payment for your application will be taken by VFS Global at the Irish Visa Application Centre when you submit your application.

If you live in Northern Ireland, Channel Islands or the Isle of Man payment for your application submitted by post should be made by including a postal order or bank draft with your application. Personal cheques are not accepted. Postal orders and bank drafts should be made payable to 'the Embassy of Ireland' for the appropriate amount.

The visa fee is an administration fee which covers the cost of processing your application.  This fee cannot be refunded if your application is refused or withdrawn.

VFS Global Fees

VFS Global is a commercial company who facilitate visa applicants in making their visa applications to the Irish Visa Office. VFS Global manages the Visa Application Centres (VACs) on behalf of the Embassy of Ireland, where applicants in England, Scotland & Wales should submit their completed visa application form, supporting documents and biometric data. 

Whether or not an applicant is exempt from paying a visa application fee, VFS Global will levy a service fee for the submission of an application at a VAC. VFS also provide a range of additional services which an applicant may choose to avail of in making their application.

Your visa application will be processed and decided by Embassy of Ireland staff. VFS Global and its staff do not play any part in, or influence, the outcome of your visa application. VFS Global can only provide services to ensure that your visa application is correctly submitted.

Processing Times

Check our visa processing times.

Visa Appeals

If your application has been refused, you will be sent a letter outlining the reasons for refusal.

If you still wish to travel to Ireland, you can appeal this decision within two months of receiving the refusal notice.

Further information on appealing visa decisions can be found on the  website of the Irish Immigration Service .

On Arrival in Ireland

Further information on what to expect on arrival in Ireland can be found on the website of the  Irish Immigration Service.

Prior Visa Refusals

I understand that any false or misleading information , or false supporting documentation may result in the refusal of my application may be refused and I may be prevented from making further visa applications for a period of up to 5 years. An appeal, against the decision to refuse to grant the visa sought, may not be permitted.

The Embassy applies a zero tolerance policy with respect to fraudulent applications. An application containing a deception such as a forged document, a document containing false information or information withheld from an application (such as a previous visa refusal) may result in your application being refused without the prospect of appeal. If the application was submitted as part of a group, all applications in that group maybe refused without appeal. Where applications are rejected on the grounds of a deception, a 5-year ban may also be applied.

Related Links:

Irish Embassies Abroad

Embassies in Ireland

Assistance abroad

Travel Advice

Citizens' Registration

Top Passport Questions

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

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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