Foreign travel resumption allows. Proof of vaccination required for Ireland passport holders.
Ireland Reopens Borders with Vaccine Certificate Requirements from July 19, 2025
Starting July 19, 2025, Ireland will resume foreign travel with specific vaccine certificate requirements for EU and third-country citizens, including travelers from the US and UK.
For EU citizens, recognized EU Digital COVID Certificates will suffice for entry without additional quarantine or restrictions, allowing freer movement within Ireland and the EU. Third-country nationals, including US and UK citizens, will be required to present proof of vaccination or recovery as outlined by Ireland, consistent with EU Digital COVID Certificate standards or equivalent documents.
The vaccine certificate system aims to verify travelers’ COVID-19 status, minimizing health risks and supporting tourism and business resumption. The Irish government has announced the resumption of foreign travel, a decision welcomed by the tourism sector as an "important step on the road to recovery" for the industry.
Eamon Ryan, the Irish Transport Minister, stated that travel and connectivity are essential for the country's economy and social wellbeing. He expressed hope for a summer where people can enjoy an Irish summer, take holidays abroad, or reconnect with friends and family overseas, and welcome tourists back as well.
However, for travelers arriving from the UK, self-quarantine at home is required unless they have been fully vaccinated, due to concerns about the Indian variant prevalent there.
Ireland will need a six-week introductory period to prepare airport systems for processing vaccine certificates, as encouraged by the EU. Social spaces such as restaurants, pubs, cinemas, theatres, and gyms have reopened for outdoor activities as of June 7.
The Irish government plans to ease restrictions on non-essential travel for third countries, including visitors from the US, in a similar manner. As of May 28, 2.5 million COVID vaccines have been delivered to the Irish people.
According to the Irish Minister, the country is looking forward to a positive summer, expecting to protect thousands of jobs and livelihoods across the tourism industry. Ireland maintains the UK as a "very close neighbor" but still considers it a third country in terms of travel restrictions.
The US State Department continues to recommend exercise of normal travel precautions for Ireland as of late August 2024. Travelers are advised to verify the latest information before planning travel, as specific operational or logistic changes closer to July 19, 2025, may apply depending on evolving public health conditions.
- A summer full of possibilities awaits tourists as Ireland prepares to welcome them, having eased restrictions on non-essential travel for third countries, including visitors from the US, similar to EU citizens.
- Eco-tourists may find solace in the Irish islands, as the resumption of travel fuels hope for a sustainable and lively tourism industry, supporting both the economy and social wellbeing.
- In anticipation of an increase in traveler numbers, Ireland will need to ensure seamless processing of vaccine certificates, such as the EU Digital COVID Certificate, during the six-week introductory period at its airports.
- Travelers might find pleasure in exploring Ireland, where they can enjoy a unique holiday lifestyle, soak up local culture, and contribute positively to the revitalization of the country's tourism and travel sectors post-pandemic.
