Kashlee KucheranLast Updated
Ireland – a country known for its enchanting beauty, timeless adventure, unique culture, and of course… historic castles and Guiness beer just to name a few.
Ireland started reopening on July 21, 2020, but has changed entry requirements and rules a few times as Europe adapts to surges of the pandemic.
Here you'll find all the latest Covid-19 entry requirements for Ireland and everything travelers need to know before booking their trip.
Please note: For the entire month of January 2021 Ireland is under a Level 5 lockdown. Travel, movement, businesses, and other services are extremely limited during this time.
Countries Permitted To Visit Ireland
All Countries.
Technically, all nations and countries are permitted entry into Ireland, under all ‘pre-covid' visa laws.
Online Authorization Form To Visit Ireland
All arrivals into Ireland, both residents and tourists alike, will have to complete the Covid-19 Passenger Locator Form before entering the country.
The form is for every traveler who is 16 or older and failure to complete the form could result in a fine of up to €2,500 or imprisonment for up to 6 months.
Ireland's ‘Traffic Light' System
Since October, Ireland started using the ‘traffic light system' suggested by the EU in order to determine the risk level of the country passengers are traveling from.
Regions across the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) are categorized as green, orange, red or grey, on the basis of the risk levels associated with COVID-19.
Green, Orange, Red and Grey countries all have different rules, explained below.
Ireland's COVID-19 Testing Entry Requirements
Starting January 8, 2021, passengers entering Ireland from the UK or South Africa, will need to bring proof of a negative PCR test, taken no longer than 72 hours before arrival.
Anyone arriving without proof of the negative test could face fines of up to €2500.
Quarantine & ‘Test To Release' Programs in Ireland
14-day isolation is required from most passengers entering Ireland, both foreigners, and residents.
Starting on November 29, visitors from RED or GREY countries will also have the option of taking a test (post-arrival) on Day 5 of quarantine, upon which the negative results will release the passenger from the remainder of the isolation.
Coming from:
RED countries = 14-day isolation (with an optional ‘test to release' on Day 5)
ORANGE countries = 14-day isolation (bringing a negative PCR test will cancel this)
GREEN countries = no isolation
GREY and/or Third-Party Countries = 14-day isolation (with an optional ‘test to release' on Day 5)
*note: Almost every country in the world is RED or GREY right now, so there is a 99% chance you will have to quarantine.
COVID-19 Travel Insurance Entry Requirements
All incoming travelers should have travel insurance the covers COVID-19 for the duration of their trip to Ireland
COVID-19 Health Requirements While in Ireland
All visitors must follow COVID-19 health requirements while in Ireland:
- Wearing a mask is required by law on public transit, and should be worn in all public places.
- Social distancing of 2 metres
Ireland is currently in their Phase 5 of reopening. See all the rules and regulations in place under Phase 5
COVID-19 Vaccine Entry Requirements
A vaccine for COVID-19 is not yet available to the public. Ireland has not announced any mandates on a proof of vaccine record (POVR) or an international certificate of vaccination or prophylaxis (ICVP) for entry.
Visa Entry Requirements For Ireland During COVID-19
Many countries can visit Ireland Visa free.
Of course, EU/EEA nations have freedom of movement agreement with Ireland, and other nations like Canada, USA, Australia, Japan and Singapore can all visit visa-free.
If you are a citizen of a nation that requires a visa, you will have to apply at the Irish consulate in your home country before entry.
Visa Policy of Ireland – credit: TwoFortnights
Ireland Covid-19 Entry Requirements:
- Check to see if you need a Visa to enter Ireland
- Fill our your Passenger Locator Form
- Understand your testing and/or quarantine requirements upon arrival
- Follow all health protocols while in Ireland
Source: gov.ie / dfa.ie / ecdc.europa.eu /
For Breaking Travel Reopening News & Questions, Join Our: Facebook Community
Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories