Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Starting in 2026, most visa-exempt travelers to Ireland will require an ETA (€7 fee) - a simple online pre-approval valid for multiple entries over three years or until passport expiry. The application process is quick, typically under 10 minutes, but apply at least 72 hours before travel to ensure approval.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Ireland, and it should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. This rule applies strictly at Irish borders, so renew early if needed to avoid last-minute issues.
Biometric passports are preferred for faster processing at e-gates in major airports like Dublin.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the EU/EEA, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many others can enter Ireland visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism or business. This short-stay visa waiver is part of Ireland's common travel area with the UK, allowing seamless movement between the two.
For longer stays, you may need to register with immigration authorities upon arrival if planning to work or study.
Visa Applications
If a visa is required, apply through the Irish embassy or online via the AVATS system (€60-100 fee depending on type), providing documents such as proof of accommodation, sufficient funds (€50/day minimum), and comprehensive travel insurance. Processing times range from 8 weeks for standard applications to faster options for urgent cases.
Short-stay visas (C-type) are for tourism, while long-stay (D-type) require additional justification like employment offers.
Border Crossings
Ireland shares an open border with Northern Ireland (part of the UK), allowing free movement without checks, but expect passport controls at airports, ferries from the UK, or direct EU flights. The Common Travel Area means no routine immigration checks when traveling from Britain by sea or air.
Customs declarations may apply for goods over €430 in value, especially post-Brexit rules on food and animal products.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for Ireland, covering medical emergencies (healthcare can be expensive for non-EU visitors), trip delays, and activities like hiking the Wild Atlantic Way or surfing in Donegal. Look for policies that include COVID-19 coverage and evacuation services, starting from €10/day.
EU citizens can use the EHIC/GHIC card for urgent care, but it doesn't cover everything like private treatments.
Extensions Possible
Short-stay visitors can apply to extend their time in Ireland for compelling reasons like medical issues or family emergencies by submitting a request to the local immigration office before the 90-day limit expires. Fees are approximately €300, and you'll need strong supporting evidence such as doctor's notes or flight delays.
Overstaying can lead to fines or bans, so plan extensions carefully and consult official sources early.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Ireland uses the Euro (€). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Dublin or Shannon by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months ahead, especially for summer festivals, can save 40-60% on fares from major hubs.
Eat Like a Local
Opt for gastropubs and food markets for hearty meals under €15, avoiding overpriced tourist traps in Dublin to cut dining costs by up to 50%.
Try traditional spots for soda bread and seafood chowder; farmers' markets in Cork or Galway offer fresh, affordable bites.
Public Transport Passes
Purchase a Leap Card for unlimited bus and rail travel starting at €10/day, drastically reducing costs for city-hopping in Dublin or intercity jaunts.
Combine with free walking tours and off-peak travel for even bigger savings on getting around the Emerald Isle.
Free Attractions
Explore natural wonders like the Cliffs of Moher (entry fees apply but trails are free), national parks, and ancient sites such as Newgrange without cost for authentic, budget-friendly adventures.
Many castles and heritage sites offer free exterior views, and St. Patrick's Day parades are public spectacles year-round in spirit.
Card vs Cash
Contactless cards are ubiquitous in cities, but keep €50-100 cash for rural pubs, markets, and tips in remote areas like the Dingle Peninsula.
Use fee-free ATMs from major banks like AIB to avoid exchange rip-offs, and notify your bank of travel plans.
Heritage Cards
The Heritage Card (€40 for adults) grants unlimited access to over 40 sites like Bunratty Castle for a year, ideal for history buffs and paying off after just 3-4 visits.
Look for combo deals with transport passes to maximize value on cultural explorations across the island.
Smart Packing for Ireland
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Layer up with moisture-wicking base layers, fleece mid-layers, and a waterproof Gore-Tex jacket to combat Ireland's frequent drizzle and wind along coastal paths.
Pack quick-dry pants and merino wool socks for variable weather; include smart-casual outfits for pub evenings and modest wear for religious sites like cathedrals.
Electronics
Don't forget a Type G adapter for Ireland's UK-style three-pin sockets, a portable charger for long days on the road, and apps like the Irish Rail timetable or offline Google Maps for navigation.
A waterproof phone case and action camera are great for capturing misty landscapes; download Gaelic phrase audio for cultural immersion in Gaeltacht areas.
Health & Safety
Carry proof of insurance, a comprehensive first-aid kit with blister plasters for hikes, motion sickness remedies for ferry rides, and any personal meds in original packaging.
Include high-SPF sunscreen (UV is strong despite clouds), allergy treatments for pollen-heavy springs, and a reusable mask for crowded indoor spots like museums.
Travel Gear
A lightweight backpack for day trips to the Giant's Causeway, a collapsible water bottle for hydration on trails, and a RFID-blocking wallet to safeguard against pickpockets in busy Temple Bar.
Pack photocopies of your passport and ETA approval, plus a compact rain poncho; consider a carabiner for securing items during windy outdoor adventures.
Footwear Strategy
Invest in waterproof hiking boots with good grip for rugged terrains like the Wicklow Mountains or Slieve League cliffs, paired with breathable trainers for urban strolls in Limerick.
Extra insoles prevent fatigue on cobblestone streets; always include wool-blend socks to keep feet dry in Ireland's damp climate year-round.
Personal Care
Bring travel-sized eco-friendly toiletries, a hydrating moisturizer for windy exposures, and a foldable umbrella or hat to shield from sudden showers during countryside drives.
Lip balm with SPF and wet wipes are essentials for on-the-go freshness; opt for multi-use items like a sarong for picnics or light scarves to layer against chill.
When to Visit Ireland
Spring (March-May)
Mild weather of 8-15°C with blooming wildflowers makes it perfect for road trips along the Wild Atlantic Way and lambing season views in the countryside, plus fewer tourists than summer.
Events like the Dublin International Film Festival add cultural flair; expect occasional rain but longer daylight hours for exploring ancient ruins like the Rock of Cashel.
Summer (June-August)
Warmest period at 15-20°C ideal for festivals such as Galway Arts Festival or traditional music sessions, with extended evenings for midnight hikes in the Mourne Mountains.
Peak season brings crowds to popular spots like the Aran Islands, but it's prime time for beach days in Kerry and outdoor ceili dances; book ahead for higher prices.
Autumn (September-November)
Cool temperatures of 10-15°C with stunning foliage colors enhance hikes in Killarney National Park and harvest festivals, offering shoulder-season deals on accommodations.
Surfing swells pick up on the west coast, and foodie events like the Oyster Festival in Galway provide cozy, flavorful experiences amid crisp air and fewer visitors.
Winter (December-February)
Chilly 4-8°C weather suits indoor pursuits like whiskey tours in Midleton or storytelling in Dublin pubs, with magical Christmas markets and New Year's fireworks.
Budget-friendly off-season for scenic drives through snowy Glendalough; short days mean more time for relaxation, though rural roads may be icy—stick to cities for ease.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Euro (€) in the Republic of Ireland; British Pound (£) in Northern Ireland. Cards are widely accepted, but cash is handy for rural areas and small vendors.
- Language: English is the primary language; Irish (Gaeilge) is official and spoken in Gaeltacht regions. Most locals are fluent in English.
- Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter, Irish Standard Time (IST) UTC+1 in summer
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type G plugs (three rectangular pins, UK standard)
- Emergency Number: 999 or 112 for police, medical, or fire services
- Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated; add 10% in restaurants and round up taxi fares
- Water: Tap water is safe and high-quality throughout Ireland
- Pharmacies: Easily found; identified by green signs with a cross. 24-hour options in major cities like Dublin