Help for visitors and tourists
On holiday or visiting family in Ireland? Start here.
Checked against official sources on
Where to start
Do I need a visa?Check by country before you travelTourist SOSFree help if you are a victim of crime or lose your passport on holidayDo I need a visa?
- Citizens of some countries need a visa before they travel. Check with the official tool.
- British citizens do not need a visa.
- Some people with a UK visitor visa can visit without an Irish visa, under the British Irish Visa Scheme.
- You can apply for a short stay 'C' visa up to 3 months before you travel.
At the airport or port
- An immigration officer decides if you can come in. A visa lets you travel, but it does not promise entry.
- Have your passport, your visa if you need one, and your boarding card ready.
- It helps to bring your travel plans, proof of money, health insurance, where you are staying, and any invitation letters.
- The officer puts a stamp in your passport. You can stay until the date on it, for 3 months at most.
- Came in through Northern Ireland? Report to an immigration officer within 30 days, or within 7 days if you are here for work or business.
Staying longer than 3 months
- You need permission to stay longer. A short stay 'C' visa means you must leave before your stamp ends.
- With a long stay 'D' visa, register your permission before your landing stamp ends.
Lost or stolen passport
- Report it to the Gardaí (Irish police).
- Contact your country's embassy to get a replacement.
- Tourist SOS can help you contact the Gardaí and your embassy.
Numbers for visitors
EmergencyGardaí, ambulance, fire, coast guard112 or 999Garda Confidential LineGive information about a crime. Not for emergencies.1800 666 111SamaritansSomeone to talk to, any time. Free from any phone.116 123Tourist SOSHelp for visitors who are victims of crime. Mon to Sat 10am to 6pm, Sun and public holidays 12pm to 6pm.01 661 0562Where this information comes from
We checked this page against these official pages on .
- Coming to visit IrelandImmigration Service Delivery
- Short stay visa: frequently asked questionsImmigration Service Delivery
- Entry for non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss and non-UK nationalsImmigration Service Delivery
- Tourist SOSTourist SOS
- Useful contact numbersAn Garda Síochána
- Contact SamaritansSamaritans Ireland
This is a summary, not legal advice. Your own letter of permission is the final word.