Ireland
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
Ireland - Exercise normal security precautions
There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Ireland. Exercise normal security precautions.
Safety and security
Safety and security
Crime
Ireland has a low incidence of serious crime. Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching and passport theft) occurs, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. Violent crime, although rare, occurs in larger cities. Avoid secluded parks and unlit areas.
Car theft and break-ins are on the rise, especially in tourist areas in Dublin and surrounding areas. Rental vehicles are a target of choice. Ensure that valuables in vehicles are kept out of sight at all times. Use secure parking facilities where available, particularly overnight.
The Irish Tourist Assistance Service offers support and assistance to tourists who become victims of crime while in Ireland. The service can arrange accommodation, transportation and meals and they liaise with many companies, such as travel insurance and financial institutions. They can also assist with contacting the local police and embassies. The service can be reached by email or by phone at 1890 365 700.
Fraud
Credit card fraud and automated banking machine (ABM) scams are becoming more common. Fraudulent electronic readout devices are sometimes used at ABMs in Ireland. To avoid being a victim of this fraud, use ABMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business, avoid card readers with an irregular aspect, cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN and check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements.
See our Overseas fraud page for more information on scams abroad.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media.
Road safety
Traffic drives on the left. Use caution when entering a traffic circle (roundabout).
Road conditions are generally good. However, some roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in rural areas. Reduce speed on narrow, uneven country roads. These may become hazardous during severe weather conditions. Consult Ireland’s AA Roadwatch for travel advice and route planning.
Public Transportation
Taxis are widely available. In Dublin, gridlock can prove expensive: expect long delays during rush hours. Taxi rates can vary based on the time of day and location.
Intercity bus and train services are occasionally affected by overcrowding and traffic congestion or disrupted by strike action.
Ferry services are available between Ireland and the United Kingdom. Ferries can be delayed or cancelled due to weather conditions.
Air travel
The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.
General safety information
Exercise normal safety precautions. Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Irish authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of Ireland or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
Consult the Travel Advice and Advisories for the United Kingdom for specific entry/exit requirements for Northern Ireland.
Passport
Ireland is a member of the European Union but it is not part of the Schengen area. A passport is required to travel between Ireland and other European countries, including the United Kingdom.
Canadians must present a passport to visit Ireland, which must be valid for at least the expected duration of their stay in that country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.
Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.
Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.
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)
If you wish to work or study in Ireland, please contact the Embassy of Ireland in Ottawa to obtain up-to-date information on the requirements related to work permits or stays for study purposes. Students can apply for a working holiday visa through the Student Work Abroad Program.
Children and travel
Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.
Yellow fever
See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.
Health
Health
- Measles: Global Update - May 2, 2017 00:00 EDT
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health provider about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease and is common in most parts of the world. Be sure your measles vaccination is up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
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.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Western Europe. When in doubt, remember…boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Western Europe, certain insects carry and spread diseases like Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis, and West Nile virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Western Europe, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Medical services and facilities
The standard of health care in Ireland is high, and excellent medical care is widely available. Payment is required before treatment.
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
Laws & culture
You are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.
Canada and Ireland are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons (Council of Europe). 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 Irish authorities.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Ireland. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you an Irish citizen. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present an Irish passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.
Illegal drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.
Driving
An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Traffic drives on the left. Turning at a red light is prohibited.
The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device.
Motorways in Ireland are subject to tolls. For more information, please visit the AA Ireland website.
Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05 percent or 0.02 percent for new drivers. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Money
The currency of Ireland is the euro (EUR).
Credit cards and traveller’s cheques in U.S. dollars and euros are widely accepted. Automated banking machines are available in urban centres.
When crossing one of the external border control points of the European Union (EU), you must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have at least €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller’s cheques or any other convertible assets. This does not apply if you are travelling within the EU or in transit to a non-EU country. For more information on the EU legislation and links to EU country sites, visit the European Commission’s cash controls.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Heavy rains are frequent, sometimes resulting in flooding.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
Consular assistance
Dublin - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Dublin and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad. In the event of a large-scale emergency, every effort will be made to provide assistance. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
See Large-scale emergencies abroad for more information.