Ireland travel advice
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- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Ireland - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Ireland.
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.
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.
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
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
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
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
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.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.
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.
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.
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
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 112 or 999 for emergency assistance.
Consular assistance
Dublin - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Ireland, in Dublin, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
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