Ireland Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Ireland?

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You’ve got your heart set on a trip to the Emerald Isle, but you’re not sure what you need to make this dream trip a reality. Don’t worry; it’s easier than it looks to visit Ireland. Ireland passport requirements state that you will need a valid U.S. passport with at least one blank page for an entry stamp to enter the country, and it must be valid the entire length of your stay.

Check the expiration date as soon as you book your ticket to allow plenty of time for a renewal, if necessary. Once you arrive, you may be asked to provide an onward or return ticket and proof of necessary funds to cover the cost of your trip.

Ireland Passport Requirements

Though there is no minimum time your passport must be valid before you enter the country, Ireland passport requirements state that your passport is valid during the entire length of your stay and that you have at least one blank page for an entry stamp. You may also be asked to present an onward or return ticket, as well as evidence of funds to cover the cost of your trip.

How to Get a Passport Book for Travel to Ireland

Apply for a passport as soon as international travel is confirmed. The cost will be greater if you apply for a passport within two weeks of travel time and need an expedited application. You can learn more about the requirements and documents needed to obtain a U.S. passport here.

Other Ireland Travel Requirements

Visa: No for U.S. citizens, up to 90 days

Vaccinations: No

What to Do if You Lose Your Passport in Ireland

Take every precaution to keep your passport secure, such as carrying it in a hidden passport holder, keeping it locked in a safe, and emailing copies to yourself or a loved one before traveling.

If you do lose your passport, report the loss immediately to the U.S. Embassy Dublin.

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So, Do I Need a Passport to Visit Ireland?

In summary: Yes. Ireland passport requirements state that you must have a U.S. passport that is valid the entire length of your stay and have at least one blank page for an entry stamp to enter the country. You may also need to show proof of return or onward travel, along with sufficient funds to cover the cost of your trip.

More Information When Visiting Ireland

The U.S. Department of State provides detailed information, including travel advisories and passport validity requirements, to your destination.

For information on how to apply or renew a passport, visit here.

Tourism Ireland is a great resource for things to do and places to stay, as well as everything you need to know before you go when planning a trip to Ireland.

Protect Your Passport

We recommend investing in a passport cover or wallet to protect your pages from bends, tears and spills. It’s important to keep your passport in good condition for easy inspection. 

On travel days, only take your passport out during inspection. Otherwise, keep it stowed away in a dedicated section of your bag (if you keep it in the same place every time, you won’t ever scramble to locate it). Once you arrive at your destination, find a way to stow it securely. In-room safes or safe deposit boxes at the hotel front desk are generally good options, but if neither is available, you’ll need to decide how to keep your passport secure. You might consider keeping it in an under-clothing money belt that you wear, or leaving it in the hotel or vacation rental but locking it in your suitcase with a TSA-approved lock.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 5 Exotic Places Where You Don’t Need a Passport
• How to Renew a Passport, Global Entry, and TSA PreCheck—The Ultimate Guide
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

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