Coronavirus cases remain high across the globe. Health officials caution that travel increases your chances of getting and spreading the virus. Staying home is the best way to stem transmission. Below is information on what to know if you still plan to travel, last updated on August 1.
If you’re planning to travel to Ireland, here’s what you’ll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The basics
Ireland had one of Europe’s harshest lockdowns throughout much of the pandemic, but all its Covid-related travel restrictions were lifted on March 6 and international visitors are very welcome.
Northern Ireland is part of the UK and lifted all its Covid-related travel restrictions on March 18. You can find out more in our UK guide.
Who can go
All travelers are welcome from everywhere.
What are the restrictions?
On March 6, Ireland lifted all its Covid-related travel restrictions.
Travelers no longer have to present proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative PCR test result upon arrival, and there are no post-arrival testing or quarantine requirements.
Find out more on the Irish government website.
Anyone who develops Covid-19 symptoms while in Ireland is advised to follow the Health Service Executive’s guidance.
What’s the Covid situation?
The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention has placed Ireland in its Level 3 travel warning category – “High” – and advises its citizens to be fully vaccinated before traveling there.
As of August 1, there have been 1,644,166 cases and 7,675 deaths. Nearly 82% of the population has been fully vaccinated, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.
What’s on offer
The wild coasts of Cork and Kerry, the rugged beauty of Connemara and Donegal and the cultural hub of Dublin. Ireland has long held travelers’ imaginations captive, with tales of its history, its great literature and Celtic myths an endless source of fascination.
Sure, you can enjoy a few pints in one of its classic pubs, but with so much to explore, Ireland is as much a place to indulge in the great outdoors as it is to enjoy the craic.
What can visitors expect?
Ireland has now lifted nearly all of its domestic Covid-19 restrictions.
Face coverings are no longer legally required, but are recommended on public transport and in healthcare settings.
If you have Covid-19 symptoms, you are advised to self-isolate until 48 hours after your symptoms end. You do not need a Covid-19 test unless you are in certain higher-risk groups.
Find out more about the current recommendations here.
Useful links
Covid-19 Passenger Locator Form
Our latest coverage
Working out your itinerary? Check out these 32 beautiful reasons to visit.
CNN travel show “Quest’s World of Wonder” recently visited Dublin and Cork. See Richard Quest’s adventures here.
Julia Buckley, Joe Minihane and Maureen O’Hare contributed to this report.