Risk level

Safety and security

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs. Tourists are frequently targeted.

Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active:

• at tourist sites and attractions
• in hotels, restaurants and bars
• on public transportation
• at airports and railway stations

While you’re in Ireland:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID in the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original when you are out
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid deserted streets at night
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas and when withdrawing cash from ATM

Vehicles

Car theft and break-ins occur, particularly in tourist areas in Dublin and surrounding areas. Rental vehicles are a target of choice.

• Familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
• Keep your windows and doors locked at all times
• Keep your belongings out of reach
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• Never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk

Violent crime

Violent crime, although rare, may occur in larger cities.

If you are the victim of a crime, you must report the incident to the nearest An Garda Síochána station, Ireland’s National Police Service. The Garda can then refer you to the Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS) for further assistance.

You may file a preliminary complaint online for theft of belongings. This could help speed up the process at the police station.

The ITAS offers support and assistance to tourists who become victims of crime while in Ireland. The service can:

• arrange accommodation, transportation and meals
• liaise with many companies, such as travel insurance and financial institutions
• liaise with the local police and the Embassy of Canada

Useful links

• Victim services - An Garda Síochána
• Declare a theft - An Garda Síochána
• Assistance for victims of crime - The Irish Tourist Assistance Service

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
• never save your debit or credit card’s details in unknown laptops or computer devices

Cybercrime

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Ireland to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam. Be wary of attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.

Useful links

• Report a cybercrime - An Garda Síochána
• Information on cybercrime - Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau
• More about overseas fraud

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Violent demonstrations occurred in Dublin in November 2023 and led to acts of vandalism, arson, and clashes between demonstrators and police.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, may lead to safety concerns if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go walking, biking or hiking in remote areas:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• do not venture off marked trails
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out

Useful links

• Walking safety - Ordnance Survey Ireland
• Hiking advice - Mountaineering Ireland

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are generally good. Some roads can be uneven, narrow and winding, particularly in rural areas. These may become hazardous during severe weather conditions.

Roundabouts are common.

• Use caution when entering a traffic circle
• Reduce speed on narrow, uneven country roads

AA Road travel advice and route planning - Ireland’s Roadwatch Newsroom

Public transportation

Taxis

Taxis are generally safe.

Negotiate fares in advance or insist that the driver use the meter as rates can vary based on the time of day and location.

Buses and trains

Intercity bus and train services networks are extensive and reliable.

They are occasionally affected by overcrowding and traffic congestion.

Strike actions may also cause disruptions.

Cycling

Cycling is a common transportation option in Ireland, particularly in Dublin. If you do cycle, pay attention to traffic regulations and vehicles.

Useful links

• Cycling advice - Dublin Cycling Campaign
• Safety tips - Irish Cycle 

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Irish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Regional travel

Ireland is a member of the European Union, but it’s not part of the Schengen area.

You must have a valid passport to travel between Ireland and other European countries.

If you plan to travel to the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland, make sure you meet the entry/exit requirements for the United Kingdom.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Ireland.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Student visa: not required
Work permit: required, except for the Student Work Abroad Program

Useful links

• Visas for Ireland – Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland
• Visas and residence – Irish Immigration services
• Student Work Abroad Program
• Guide to temporary entry into Ireland under CETA

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

You may be denied entry if you're unable to do so or if custom officials suspect that you intend to seek any type of employment while entering as a visitor.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country.

Upfront payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Ireland are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Ireland to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Ireland authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Ireland.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Ireland, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ireland.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ireland, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Irish court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ireland to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

Traffic drives on the left.

Turning at a red light is prohibited.

You can drive with a valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to 12 months in Ireland. If you plan to stay longer, you must obtain an Irish licence.

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

Useful links

• More about the International Driving Permit
• Driving in Ireland - European Commission
• How to obtain a driver licence in Ireland - National Driver Licence Service

Money

The currency of Ireland is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Natural disasters and climate

Storms and flooding

Ireland is subject to seasonal storms, windstorms and severe weather. Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides. High winds can damage power lines and cause power disruptions.

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Telecommunications may be disrupted. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Useful links

• Weather forecast - Met Éireann, Irish Meteorological Service
• Flood information - Office of Public Works of Ireland
• Be winter ready - Office of Emergency Planning
• Being prepared - Office of Emergency Planning

Wildfires

Forest fires may occur. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a significant fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities