The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for British passport holders entering Ireland, clarifying passport and ID requirements. While a passport is not legally required to enter Ireland, the FCDO recommends carrying one in case proof of identity is needed.
Passport and ID guidance
On Friday, 4 September, the FCDO updated its entry requirements page for Ireland. It stated: "British nationals are not legally required to show a passport to enter Ireland, but it may be useful to carry in case you need to prove your identity. British and Irish citizens can continue to travel freely between the UK and Ireland under the Common Travel Area."
The FCDO also noted that some airlines and ferry operators have introduced, or will introduce, a passport-only identification requirement. It advised travellers to check their carrier's requirements before departure and, where necessary, travel with a valid passport. It also pointed to the Ireland Citizens Information Board for guidance on acceptable ID, adding that Irish immigration officers are entitled to ask for proof of British nationality during their work.
Visa and Schengen rules
The FCDO confirmed that British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Ireland. It stated: "You can visit and remain indefinitely in Ireland under the Common Travel Area rules. British nationals do not need a visa or residency permit to live, work or study in Ireland. Although Ireland is in the EU, it is not part of the Schengen area, and Schengen rules do not apply."
Because Ireland is not in the Schengen area, it is not affected by the new Entry/Exit System (EES) that will be introduced in Schengen countries from 12 October 2025. Travellers entering Ireland will not need to register for EES.
New ferry passport requirement
From 28 September 2026, all passengers travelling on Irish Ferries services between the Republic of Ireland and Britain must present a valid passport or Irish passport card before boarding. This applies to the Dublin–Holyhead and Rosslare–Pembroke routes, in both directions, and to all passengers, including Irish and UK citizens.
After that date, driving licences, national identity cards and other forms of photographic identification will no longer be accepted for these routes. Irish Ferries said the requirement is being introduced to comply with UK Border Force requirements on the accuracy and integrity of passenger data before boarding.
