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As UK citizens, we are accustomed to grabbing our passport when heading to our next overseas adventure – but it isn’t always needed. The UK’s close bond with Ireland means the travel rules are slightly different. Many travellers are often confused as to if you need a passport to go to Ireland – let’s dive into it.
Do you need a passport to go to Ireland from the UK?
The UK and Ireland are part of what is known as the Common Travel Area (CTA). This allows citizens of both countries to travel freely between them without passport controls. It creates the unique scenario of UK and Irish passport holders not needing a passport to travel between Ireland and the UK.
However, you are still required to show a valid form of photo identification to fly or arrive via ferry. This information can be found on carrier websites. Be sure to contact the company’s customer support team if you are uncertain.
Can you travel to Ireland with a UK driving licence?
Yes, a form of valid photo identification is needed to travel to Ireland, and a UK driving license fits the bill. However, it’s important to check the individual ID requirements of the company you will be travelling with as the form of photo identification accepted may vary.
Going back to the UK from Ireland: will you need to show your passport?
Because of the CTA, you don’t need to show your passport when arriving back in the UK from Ireland. However, you will need a form of photo identification on you when travelling. A driving license is the most commonly accepted form of this, but remember to check your airline or ferry carrier requirements.
Flying to Ireland from another country: do you need a passport?
When an Irish or UK national arrives in Ireland from a location outside the CTA, they will need to produce a passport for immigration purposes. Driving licenses or other forms of photo ID aren’t considered an equivalent identity document in these specific circumstances. Be sure to have your passport to hand when making such journeys.
Where is the best place to stay?
For easy access to tourist attractions, Irish city life and short journeys to beautiful nature spots like Howth, you can’t beat Dublin as a perfect base for your trip. There are so many amazing things to do in and around Dublin, so be sure to spend some time planning your itinerary so you don’t miss anything!
What is the dish you must try?
Irish food is all about comfort. Warm up with a big bowl of Irish stew or try colcannon, which is mashed potatoes with cabbage. You also can’t go wrong with a big chunk of soda bread slathered in Irish butter. Irish food portion sizes are gloriously hearty, so you won’t go hungry!
What are the 5 best places to visit in Ireland?
You’re all set on your entry requirements and now it’s time for the fun bit – itinerary planning. Here’s five places you must visit across Ireland:
- For the experienced hiker, Carrauntoohil in County Kerry is Ireland’s highest mountain at 3,407ft. The most popular trail to the summit is the Devil’s Ladder route, which is 7.3 miles.
- Head south to Cork, the Republic’s second city, for food markets and cafe culture, galleries, walking routes galore and even the opera.
- And while you’re down south, don’t miss out on a visit to Mizen Head, the most south-westerly point of mainland Ireland, for dramatic clifftop scenery and the famed footbridge. There’s also a visitor centre and cafe to warm up (which is essential all year round!)
- For nature lovers looking for short walks or longer hikes, head to the west coast to find Wild Nephin National Park. Thanks to the remote location, the area is also famed for its stargazing.
- For history buffs visiting Dublin, head to former prison Kilmainham Gaol. The prison held some of the most famous political and military leaders in Irish history and has been virtually untouched since it closed.
The foregoing article was last updated on 19 February 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
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