ireland to new york travel restrictions

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Travelling to USA

Dublin Airport is one of only a few airports outside North America that offers a US Preclearance facility. The benefit is that having cleared USCBP, passengers arriving in the US are treated as domestic arrivals, allowing them to avoid immigration queues upon arrival and pick up their bags and go. Learn more about US Preclearance, airlines and destinations below.

• Please check with your airline to confirm when the check-in desks and bag drop for your flight will open.
• We advise that you arrive at your terminal 3 hours before a long-haul flight.
• If you are checking bags or travelling in a group you should allow more time. Always consult your airline for check-in in desk and bag drop opening hours.
• If you are flying soon, please be aware that it might be very busy at peak periods, so allow yourself plenty of time to check-in, go through Security screening and allow time to go through US Preclearance before your USA bound flight. USA flights depart from Terminal 2.

Airlines & Destinations

Here you will find a full list of US destinations that you can fly to and the Airlines that offer those direct routes from Dublin Airport.

Airlines and Destinations Details

US Preclearance

The US Preclearance (USCBP) facility at Terminal 2 in Dublin Airport is a purpose-built facility that allows US bound passengers to undertake all US immigration, customs and agriculture inspections at Dublin Airport prior to departure.

US Preclearance Details

Travelling to USA FAQs

Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions about travelling to the USA from Dublin Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

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• Travel Advice for USA

United States of America (USA)

If you’re travelling to the United States of America (USA), our travel advice and updates give you practical tips and useful information.

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Safety and security

Local laws and customs, natural disasters and climate, additional information.

Security status

We advise Irish citizens in the United States of America to take normal precautions.

Latest Travel Alert

There is currently an outbreak of Zika Virus (a dengue-like mosquito-borne disease) in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Irish Citizens are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) at http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Vectorborne/Zika/ .

Emergency Assistance 

The best help is often close at hand so if you have problems, start by talking to your local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.  

Our tips for safe travels

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance which covers all your intended activities
• Register your details with us so that we can contact you quickly in an emergency, such as a natural disaster or a family emergency
• Follow us on twitter @dfatravel for the latest travel updates 
• Read our Topical ‘Know Before You Go’ guide

Security checks

The Customs and Border Protection Agency has warned of possible increased waiting times at international airports, especially during the summer peak season, due to budget cuts. These may be up to four hours at the busiest airports. Increased processing times may make it more difficult to make tight connecting flights. These delays should have less impact on Irish passengers who undergo US border preclearance at Dublin or Shannon.

Since the terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001, the US government has issued a number of warnings of potential further terrorist attacks in the country. The US domestic threat level stands at ‘elevated’ (yellow) and the government is maintaining heightened security, especially at airports. You should expect stringent security checks at airports, transport stations and other public buildings.

Crime remains relatively low in the US but you should take sensible precautions.

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place
• Limit the amount of cash you carry by using travellers’ cheques, Euro cheques or international credit cards
• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don’t use ATMs after dark, especially if you are alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafes, train and bus stations
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible
• Keep a lookout for people acting suspiciously or unattended packages in public places

  Reporting a crime

If you’re a victim of a crime while in the US, report it to the local police immediately. And you can contact us at the Irish Embassy in Washington DC and the Irish Consulates in Austin, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, New York and San Francisco.

If you’re planning to drive in the US, be aware that cars drive on the right side of the road but otherwise road safety conditions are fairly similar to Ireland.

If you want to drive:

• Bring your full Irish driving licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you’re stopped at traffic lights  

Hiring a vehicle

If you’re hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you’re allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

When you’re in the US, all federal, state and local laws apply to you. Laws vary from state to state but when you’re physically present in a state, even temporarily, you’re subject to that state’s laws, and, in many cases, to the jurisdiction of its courts.

If you get into any difficulties with US Authorities, you should explain to them that you are an Irish national and ask to speak to an Irish consular officer. We will do what we can to help you but we cannot get you out of trouble or out of jail. 

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms. 

Immigration documents

US Federal Law requires all foreign nationals to carry immigration documentation (such as your passport showing that you have permission to enter or remain) at all times while in the USA.

Some States (Arizona, Utah, Indiana, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama) introduced legislation designed to identify and reduce the number of illegal immigrants in their states. These measures include authorisation for police officers to detain people they suspect of being in the US illegally. Although some of the measures are being contested in the courts, it is important that you have your documents available for scrutiny if you’re asked by law enforcement officials to present them wherever you are in the United States.

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Electronic system for travel authorization.

The ESTA is an electronic registration system requiring travellers who are part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to register in advance of travelling to the US.

Note: With effect from 21 January 2016, the US authorities have implemented changes to the Visa Waiver Program which will affect travellers who are Dual Nationals of Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen or any country that the US designates as a State sponsor of terrorism, and persons who have visited any of those countries since 1 March 2011. For further information on these changes to the VWP, you should consult the website of US Homeland Security or the US Embassy website .

Registration

You should register through the Department of Homeland Security website , where you will have to pay a fee (currently $14).

Registration can be done by third parties on your behalf, such as travel agencies, and multiple applications can be completed and paid for in one transaction.

You can submit an ESTA application at any time prior to travel – the Department of Homeland Security recommends that it be submitted at least 72 hours in advance of travel. Once approved, it will be valid for multiple entries into the US and generally for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

• If you don’t get authorisation to travel you’ll need to go to your nearest US Diplomatic or Consular Mission and apply for a visa.
• An ESTA approval does not determine admissibility into the US. The final decision for entry to the US rests with immigration authorities at the port of entry.
• The ESTA programme does not apply if you have a visa for the US.
• Children, including infants, who are endorsed on a parent's passport must have an individual machine-readable passport or else obtain a visa in the parent's passport.

Passport information

Machine-readable passports.

You must have an individual machine-readable passport to avail of the US Visa Waiver Programme. Otherwise you will have to get a visa, in advance, from your nearest US Diplomatic or Consular Mission.

A machine-readable passport is a passport in which your details have been printed on the data page which also contains your photograph. A passport where your details have been handwritten is not a machine-readable passport.

Passport validity

In most cases, to enter the US, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date you enter. However, Ireland has an agreement with the US that allows you to enter on a current passport up to the actual date of expiration – so your Irish passport needs to be valid only for the duration of your stay in the US.

However, if you’re travelling visa-free on the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and your passport is valid for less than 90 days, you will be admitted only until the date on which the passport expires. If the passport is not valid for the duration of your stay, you must apply for a new passport from your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate while in the US.

Further details on entry requirements are available on the US Embassy website and you can find information on J1 visas in our Visa section .

US Embassy website and you can find information on J1 visas in our Visa section.

Children - Child travelling with one parent or someone who is not a parent or legal guardian or a group

Due to increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and as possible victims of child pornography, the US authorities (CBP) strongly recommends that unless a child travelling to the US is accompanied by both parents, the adult have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child travelling with relatives other than parents, friends, or in groups such as school groups, a note signed by both parents) stating "I acknowledge that my wife/husband/etc. is travelling out of the country with my son/daughter/group. He/She/They has/have my permission to do so.” CBP also suggests that this note be notarised.

While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if it does ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child travelling without both parents can be fully assessed. If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.) any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., would be useful. For further information, please visit the CBP website .

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for this country.

We also advise any Irish citizens visiting or living in the US to follow the advice of the US Centre for Disease Control

A machine-readable passport is a passport in which your details have been printed on the datapage which also contains your photograph. A passport where your details have been handwritten is not a machine-readable passport.

Further details on entry requirements are available on the US Embassy website and you can find information on J1 visas in our Visa section.

Due to increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and as possible victims of child pornography, the US authorities (CBP) strongly recommends that unless a child travelling to the US is accompanied by both parents, the adult have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child travelling with relatives other than parents, friends, or in groups such as school groups, a note signed by both parents) stating "I acknowledge that my wife/husband/etc. is travelling out of the country with my son/daughter/group. He/She/They has/have my permission to do so.". CBP also suggests that this note be notarised.

In January 2016, an outbreak of the Zika Virus in South and Central America led to the issuance of a number of international travel alerts. Irish Citizens are advised to follow guidance available on the website of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) at http://www.hpsc.ie/A-Z/Vectorborne/Zika/ If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, and plan to travel to areas affected by the Zika virus, you are advised to discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider and to consider postponing your travel to affected areas, especially to areas with increasing or widespread transmission.

We also advise any Irish citizens visiting or living in the US to follow the advice of the US Centre for Disease Control .

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Navigating Travel Restrictions From Ireland To New York

• Last updated Sep 16, 2023
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category United States

Are you dreaming of the lush green landscapes of Ireland but worried about the current travel restrictions? Well, worry no more! Ireland and New York have recently implemented new measures to ensure safe travel between these two iconic destinations. With a blend of historic charm, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Ireland is a must-visit destination. And now, with the new travel restrictions in place, you can explore the best of both worlds without compromising on safety. So pack your bags, because the Emerald Isle is waiting to welcome you with open arms and a pint of Guinness!

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions between ireland and new york, are there any specific requirements or documents needed for travelers from ireland to enter new york, can irish citizens travel to new york for tourism purposes, are there any quarantine measures in place for travelers arriving in new york from ireland, are there any exemptions to the travel restrictions for certain categories of travelers, such as essential workers or family members of us citizens.

As of August 2021, there are travel restrictions in place between Ireland and New York due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These restrictions vary depending on the specific situation in each country and are subject to change. It is important to check the latest guidance from the government and relevant authorities before planning any travel.

Traveling from Ireland to New York:

• To enter the United States, travelers from Ireland must meet certain requirements. This includes providing a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of departure or proof of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 90 days. It is also mandatory to fill out the Traveler Health Form before boarding the flight to the United States.
• Travelers are also advised to follow all health and safety protocols, including wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and washing hands frequently.

Traveling from New York to Ireland:

• The Irish government has implemented a traffic light system for international travel. As of August 2021, the United States is categorized as an "orange" country, which means that non-essential travel is strongly discouraged.
• Travelers coming from the United States are required to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Ireland. There are limited exceptions to this requirement, such as for individuals who have been fully vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 180 days.
• It is necessary to fill out a COVID-19 Passenger Locator Form no more than 48 hours before arriving in Ireland, providing details of where you will be staying and your contact information.

It is crucial to stay informed about the latest travel restrictions and guidelines as they may change at any time. Travelers are encouraged to regularly check the websites of local health authorities, the U.S. Department of State, and the Irish government for the most up-to-date information.

Additionally, it is advisable to contact airlines and travel providers for specific information regarding flight schedules, cancellations, and any additional requirements for travel between Ireland and New York. Travelers should also consider purchasing travel insurance that covers COVID-19-related cancellations and medical expenses to ensure they are adequately protected during their trip.

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Travelers from Ireland who plan to visit New York may need to fulfill certain requirements and provide specific documents in order to enter the United States. These requirements aim to ensure the safety and security of all travelers and the country as a whole. Here are some important considerations for travelers from Ireland:

• Passport Validity: The most basic requirement is a valid passport. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into the United States. It is essential to check the passport's expiration date and renew it if necessary before traveling to New York.
• Visa Waiver Program (VWP): As Ireland is part of the Visa Waiver Program, Irish travelers can enter the United States for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, prior to travel, they must apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approval. ESTA can be applied for online, and travelers must provide their personal and travel information to receive authorization. It is advisable to apply for ESTA well in advance of the departure date.
• COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there may be additional requirements for travelers from Ireland. As of the time of writing, travelers entering the United States must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before departure. Travelers should check the most up-to-date travel restrictions and requirements imposed by the United States and New York authorities. It is also worth noting that vaccination status might impact travel protocols, and fully vaccinated individuals may have different requirements or exemptions.
• Health Declaration: To ensure public health and safety, travelers may be required to complete a health declaration form upon arrival in the United States. This form typically includes questions about recent health history and potential exposure to contagious diseases.
• Other Supporting Documents: Travelers should also have their return flight tickets, accommodation details, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in New York. It is always advisable to carry copies of these documents and other necessary identification in case of any unexpected situations during the journey.
• Customs and Border Protection: Upon arrival in New York, travelers will need to go through customs and border protection (CBP). It is important to be prepared for this process, which includes presenting travel documents, answering questions about the purpose of the visit, and potentially having bags inspected.
• Travel Insurance: While it may not be a requirement, having travel insurance is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip delays, lost baggage, and other unforeseen incidents that may occur during the trip.

It is imperative for travelers from Ireland to stay updated on the latest requirements and guidelines provided by both the United States and New York authorities. The travel restrictions and regulations may vary depending on the evolving situation, so it is essential to be flexible and prepared for any changes before embarking on the journey.

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As of October 2021, Irish citizens are allowed to travel to New York for tourism purposes. However, it is important to note that travel restrictions and requirements may change due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, it is essential for Irish citizens to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines provided by the government and the respective authorities.

Before traveling to New York, Irish citizens should check the current travel restrictions in place. The United States currently has travel restrictions for certain countries, and it is crucial to ensure that Ireland is not on the restricted list. Additionally, travelers may need to comply with certain entry requirements, such as presenting a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination.

Moreover, it is advisable for Irish citizens to have valid travel insurance that covers any potential medical expenses or emergency situations during their trip to New York. It is also essential to familiarize themselves with the local health and safety guidelines, including wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and following any specific rules implemented by establishments and attractions in New York.

When visiting New York, Irish citizens can explore a wide range of tourist attractions and landmarks. From the iconic Times Square and Central Park to the world-renowned museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, there is plenty to see and do in the city. Travelers can also indulge in the vibrant culinary scene, enjoy Broadway shows, visit famous neighborhoods like Brooklyn and Queens, and take advantage of the numerous shopping opportunities.

However, it is important to note that the COVID-19 situation can evolve rapidly, and travel restrictions or advisories may change with little notice. It is recommended for Irish citizens to monitor the official websites and resources of the U.S. government, the Irish Embassy in the United States, and relevant airlines for the most up-to-date information on travel restrictions, entry requirements, and health guidelines.

In conclusion, Irish citizens are currently allowed to travel to New York for tourism purposes, but it is crucial to stay informed about the latest travel restrictions and requirements. By staying updated on the official guidelines and taking necessary precautions, Irish travelers can have an enjoyable and safe trip to the vibrant city of New York.

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As the world continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions and quarantine measures have become common. For travelers arriving in New York from Ireland, there are specific guidelines and protocols in place to ensure public safety and mitigate the spread of the virus.

Currently, there are quarantine measures in place for travelers arriving in New York from Ireland. These measures are part of the New York State COVID-19 Travel Advisory, which applies to all international travelers. The guidelines are subject to change based on the evolving situation and public health recommendations, so it is crucial for travelers to stay updated on the latest requirements.

According to the New York State Department of Health, individuals who have been in Ireland within the last 14 days are required to quarantine for a period of 10 days upon arrival in New York. This applies to both New York residents returning from Ireland and visitors arriving from the country.

The quarantine period starts from the day of arrival in New York and requires individuals to remain in their home or other appropriate accommodations for the entire duration. During the quarantine period, individuals are expected to avoid contact with others and should only leave their place of quarantine for essential purposes such as medical emergencies.

It is important to note that individuals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 may be exempt from the quarantine requirement. However, this exemption is subject to specific criteria and documentation, which can be found on the official website of the New York State Department of Health.

To enforce these quarantine measures, the New York State Department of Health conducts regular compliance checks. Violations of the quarantine requirements may result in fines and penalties. It is essential for travelers to adhere to these guidelines to protect themselves and others from the potential spread of the virus.

It is recommended that travelers consult with their airlines or travel agencies before their trip to ensure they have the most up-to-date information on travel restrictions and requirements. Additionally, travelers should monitor the official websites of relevant authorities, such as the New York State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), for any changes or updates to the guidelines.

In conclusion, there are quarantine measures in place for travelers arriving in New York from Ireland. These measures are part of the New York State COVID-19 Travel Advisory and require individuals to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. Exceptions may apply for fully vaccinated individuals, but specific criteria and documentation are required. It is important for travelers to stay informed and comply with these guidelines to ensure public safety and mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

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Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries, including the United States, have implemented travel restrictions to control the spread of the virus. These restrictions have impacted individuals and families who were planning to travel to or from the US. However, there are certain exemptions to the travel restrictions that apply to specific categories of travelers, such as essential workers and family members of US citizens.

Essential workers play a crucial role in maintaining critical infrastructure and services during the pandemic. Therefore, they are often exempted from travel restrictions imposed by the US government. Essential workers can include healthcare professionals, emergency responders, food supply chain workers, transportation workers, and others who are deemed essential to the functioning of society.

To qualify for an exemption, essential workers may need to provide proof of their employment or present documentation from their employer stating the essential nature of their work. This documentation could be in the form of a letter, ID card, or any official documentation that supports their claim.

Family members of US citizens are also granted exemptions to the travel restrictions, but there are certain requirements that must be met. Immediate family members, such as spouses, children, parents, and siblings, are generally allowed to travel to the US even during the travel restrictions. However, they may be subject to additional screening or quarantine measures upon arrival.

To be eligible for the exemption, family members must provide proof of their relationship to the US citizen, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate. It is also advisable to carry documentation that shows the US citizen’s status, such as a passport or green card.

It is important to note that even if someone qualifies for an exemption, they may still be subject to specific public health measures such as testing or quarantine. These requirements vary depending on the specific travel restrictions and guidelines in place at the time of travel.

It is also worth mentioning that the exemptions provided may be subject to change as the situation evolves, and it is important to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and guidelines issued by the US government. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security are reliable sources of information regarding travel restrictions and exemptions.

In conclusion, certain categories of travelers, such as essential workers and family members of US citizens, may be exempt from the travel restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is vital to provide the necessary documentation and comply with any additional screening or quarantine measures required. It is recommended to stay informed about the latest guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

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Frequently asked questions.

As of the latest update, there are no specific travel restrictions from Ireland to New York. However, travelers are still required to follow the guidelines and protocols set by health authorities at both ends of the journey.

As of now, fully vaccinated travelers from Ireland do not need to quarantine upon arrival in New York. However, it is advisable to check for any updates or changes to the quarantine requirements before traveling.

Yes, all air passengers, including those traveling from Ireland, are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than three days prior to departure for the United States. It is important to check for any additional testing requirements or updates before traveling.

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Ireland to US travel resumes today - here's what you need to know

09.49 8 Nov 2021

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After nearly two years of strict border controls, Irish citizens can finally fly to the US again.

International travel restrictions banning non-US citizens from entering the States during the pandemic have been lifted after 21 months.

Any air travellers who are not US citizens will need to show proof of vaccination before boarding a flight.

However, every passenger - including US citizens - will also need to show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test.

There are some limited exceptions to the vaccine requirement - including for children under 18, people travelling for humanitarian or emergency reasons, and those who aren’t able to receive a vaccine for medical reasons.

In terms of testing, both PCR and antigen tests will be accepted by US authorities.

Fully vaccinated people must have returned a negative test taken at least three days before travelling.

Any non-vaccinated travellers will need a result from a test conducted “no more than one day” before their flight’s departure.

While rapid self-tests (e.g. at home antigen testing) are accepted, they must be conducted with a healthcare worker via “real-time supervision remotely through an audio and video connection” - i.e. they must be independently confirmed.

The testing requirement covers every passenger aged two or older.

Aer Lingus plans

Aer Lingus is one of the companies operating flights between Ireland and the US.

This week the firm will be operating flights to New York, Chicago, Boston and Washington DC.

However, they'll be expanding to 16 routes by summer 2022 - including flights between Dublin and the likes of San Francisco, Seattle and Orlando.

Flights between Shannon and New York / Boston will resume in March.

Peter O'Neill, chief operations officer with Aer Lingus, told Newstalk Breakfast capacity on transatlantic routes will be increased steadily over the coming months.

He said: “Leading up to Christmas, we’ll be back to 60% of our pre-COVID capacity.

“By Easter next year, that heads back up to 80% and then 90% by the summer.”

Ireland reopened for international arrivals - including from the US - during the summer, and Mr O’Neill says the airline has seen a “gradual building” of traffic since then.

He said: “We’ve conducted a survey recently which indicates two out of three people are willing to travel next year… I think interest is there.

“We look at the indications of bookings that are coming in, there’s strong interest in the summer.

“Obviously, as we build towards the peak, there will be pent-up demand because essentially we’ve missed two years of summer traffic.”

He said the company will be “constantly looking” at fares in the context of rising oil prices - noting this is not the first oil shock the industry has had to deal with.

Main image: File photo of sign in Dublin Airport. Radharc Images / Alamy Stock Photo

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Ireland Has Reopened to U.S. Travelers—Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Visiting

A reporter based in dublin breaks down the situation on the ground and what travelers who want to go should know..

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Celebrate Ireland’s reopening by booking a stay at Ashford Castle in County Mayo.

Photo by Jack Hardy/Tourism Ireland

It’s been a long 16 months, but Ireland finally reopened to international travelers on July 19. Which is good news, not only for those in the hospitality industry who have been hit by some of the most stringent restrictions in Europe, but also for those who have missed the scenery, buzz, and inimitable charm of Ireland.

If you’re thinking of planning a trip, here’s everything you need to know about Ireland travel in 2021.

Is Ireland open to U.S. tourists?

Yes, U.S. citizens can currently travel to Ireland. The United States is now on Ireland’s green list, meaning travelers can enter whether they’re vaccinated or not. However, restrictions apply to unvaccinated visitors.

Travel restrictions and requirements for travel to Ireland

If you’re fully vaccinated and arriving from the U.S., the U.K., or the EU, arrival into Ireland is fairly simple You won’t need to take a PCR test or isolate on arrival. You will need to provide proof of your vaccination with a CDC vaccination card or EU digital health certificate.

If you aren’t fully vaccinated, you can still technically visit Ireland, although you will need to present a predeparture PCR test (taken within 72 hours prior to arrival) before self-quarantining for 14 days. Basically, the overriding message is that only fully vaccinated travelers should be visiting Ireland right now.

Whatever your vaccination status, every single visitor needs to fill out a Passenger Locator Form and present it upon arrival. This form must be filled out prior to travel, and it’s only available online .

Beware, though, of what the EU is calling the “emergency brake” mechanism. In short, this means that, at any stage, the “brake” can be pulled to restrict travel to countries where there are variants of concern. You can keep an eye on the current restrictions on the Department of Foreign Affairs website.

How to travel to Ireland in 2021

Booking flights to ireland right now.

There are a number of airlines flying to Ireland, including Aer Lingus, United, and American Airlines. Delta has just announced that it will resume flights from JFK to Dublin in August, with flights initially running three times a week. You can currently find return flights from Chicago to Dublin for $484 round-trip with Aer LingusBoo indeed or a slightly disconcerting $666 round-trip from New York to Dublin with Delta, both for travel in August.

Where to go and new hotels in Ireland to book

The new Zanzibar Locke in Dublin boasts 160 studios set in Georgian townhouses.

Photo by Andrew Campion/Tourism Ireland

If you’re coming to visit before the summer ends, you’ll bump into a lot of Irish holidaymakers who are opting to vacation at home. But while the popular spots of Kerry and Connemara will likely be jammed with visitors, you can escape the crowds if you travel a little further north, to the coastal counties of Sligo, Mayo, and Donegal.

Blissfully rugged and wild, this corner of the country encapsulates all that makes Ireland great—soaring mountains, empty white sand beaches, and often not another soul to be seen.

The heartland of Ireland is having a bit of a moment, thanks to the addition of some cool new accommodation options in counties that were previously off the radar. Right on the shores of Lough Oughter, Cabü by the Lakes opened last July and has a cool, summer-camp-for-grown-ups vibe. Scandi-chic wooden cabins dot the forest, and in the evening, guests gather in the “Sitooterie” for glasses of artisanal gin and tonic and s’mores made over the fire.

In Dublin, hotel rates are currently the lowest they’ve been in years, as domestic tourists flock to the coast for the summer. The brand-new Zanzibar Locke is set within four Georgian townhouses, with 160 sleek studio apartments, some of which overlook the Ha’penny Bridge.

Requirements for returning to the United States

All international arrivals to the United States—including returning U.S. citizens—must provide proof of a laboratory-generated negative COVID-19 test, and the result must be procured no more than 72 hours prior to departure to the U.S. The test must be either a viral antigen test or a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), such as a polymerase chain (PCR) test. There is currently no exception for those who have been vaccinated for COVID-19.

Where travelers can get a COVID test in Ireland

In Dublin, it’s relatively easy to obtain a test. The Tropical Medical Bureau has three clinics in Dublin, two in Galway, one in Cork, and one in Wexford, as well as two drive-through clinics. Tests can be booked online; prices start from 120 euros (US$142).

In Mayo, there’s an in-house testing facility in Ashford Castle , where guests can access an on-site PCR test with results available within 12 hours. The bonus, of course, is that you’ll be staying in one of the nation’s finest hotels, a sprawling castle in the heart of the countryside.

What it’s like to travel to Ireland right now

Tourism is a huge industry in Ireland—in 2019, overseas tourism was worth 5.9 billion euros (US$7 billion), and the U.S. market was responsible for 27 percent of the tourism revenue that year. Its absence is palpable. I live between two of the main cathedrals in Dublin, and at this time of year the sidewalks are usually clogged with tourists and international students. Right now, however, the streets are still and quiet.

Head to Cabü by the Lakes for a summer-camp-for-adults experience.

Courtesy of Tourism Ireland

While most restrictions here have lifted, life isn’t back to normal yet. At the time of writing, indoor dining (and drinking) is only open to those who are fully vaccinated or proven to have recovered from COVID in the past six months. In light of that decision, some of the smaller venues have decided to remain closed to indoor dining, at least until their younger employees have been fully vaccinated.

“The appeal of our tours would have been visiting quirky, smaller venues, but that’s not possible right now,” says Sheena Dignam, who runs Galway Food Tours . Prior to the pandemic, American and Canadian tourists would have made up 80 percent of her business—last October, she launched a self-guided food tour in lieu of physical tours. “I’m going to wait for the dust to settle then make a plan for restarting the tours in September, with reduced numbers.”

Initially, the decision regarding indoor dining was a source of contention within Ireland, when it became clear that vaccinated tourists would be able to drink in pubs and eat in restaurants before Irish residents were afforded the same luxury. The wait has been a lengthy one: Pubs like Dublin’s Long Hall have been forced to close for 496 days.

But while the vaccination rollout seemed painfully slow earlier in the year, it has finally picked up speed—more than 70 percent of adults are fully vaccinated and Ireland is currently the country with the highest vaccination rate in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), of which the U.S. is a member).

Much of what makes Ireland attractive—museums, galleries, and stores, albeit with social-distancing measures and mask mandates in place—is open to travelers right now. In Ireland, masks are to be worn indoors and on public transport and inside bars and restaurants when you’re not sitting at your table.

The vast majority of Irish people are taking all of these regulations very seriously, and those who choose to ignore the rules will not be met with the characteristic Irish welcome.

“We’ve been incredibly compliant with the regulations from the start, so we expect that from our customers,” says Elaine Murphy, director of the Winding Stair restaurant group. “But our experience so far has been really positive, and we haven’t had any guests trying to flout the rules, thankfully. The staff are delighted to see American tourists return—all increases in business, and the signs of a return to normality, are incredibly welcome.”

>> Next: The AFAR Guide to Ireland

Explainer: Traveling between the US and Ireland during coronavirus

Ireland's borders remain open to travelers with some restrictions, while in the us, there is a ban on arrivals from several different countries, including ireland..

Different countries have different travel restrictions in place in hopes of curbing the spread of coronavirus. 

Update November 20, 2020: Ireland has recently adopted the EU 'Traffic Lights Approach to Travel,' which see the United States and other non-member states categorized as 'red.' Effective November 29, travelers arriving in Ireland from orange, red, or grey countries can conclude their 14-day period of restricted movements if they produce a negative PCR coronavirus test taken five days after arrival in Ireland. You can read more here .

Update September 10, 2020:  The CDC has announced that the US will no longer be funneling international arrivals through selected US airports as enhanced entry health screenings will cease from September 14. You can read more here .

Update August 8, 2020: The US State Department has downgraded its travel advisory for the Republic of Ireland. For updated information, read here .

Editor's Note: While travel between Ireland and the US may be technically permitted for some travelers, we echo the official advice that international travel, for the time being, should be reserved for essential reasons only.

Coronavirus has caused massive disruptions to travel the world over as countries are fighting to mitigate the spread of the often deadly virus. 

Read More: Ireland not subject to EU's recommendation on lifting travel restrictions

Unlike many other countries in Europe, the Republic of Ireland never opted to close its borders to international travelers, but they have placed self-isolation requirements in place for those arriving from abroad.

The official travel advice from Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs as of July 7 says: “Avoid non-essential travel until further notice: The Irish Authorities advise against all non-essential travel overseas until further notice. This includes Great Britain but does not apply to Northern Ireland. It also includes all travel by cruise ship.”

Read More: Ireland, UK added to US coronavirus travel ban

The United States, on the other hand, issued a sweeping ban on entry from non-residents, including Ireland , in March which remains in effect today until further notice.

The Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) in the US  "recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential international travel. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial travel options remain available, U.S. citizens should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite length of time."

Can I travel to the Republic of Ireland from the United States?

Yes, but you are required to complete a Passenger Locator Form and you will be made to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. These restrictions apply to all travelers, including Irish citizens returning to Ireland.

It is a legal requirement in Ireland to complete a Passenger Locator Form upon arrival, except for the following types of travelers:

• Passengers arriving from Northern Ireland.
• Passengers leaving the State from their port or airport of arrival without otherwise exiting the port or airport. 
• Holders of a Certificate for International Transport Workers, or drivers of a heavy goods vehicle, who are in the State in the course of performing their duties.
• Aircraft crew, including the pilot, who are in the State in the course of performing their duties
• Ship crew, including the maritime master, who are in the State in the course of performing their duties. 
• Foreign diplomats.

Self-isolation means staying indoors and completely avoiding contact with other people. You can travel to where you plan to self-isolate, but avoid using public transport if possible - ask a relative or household member to collect you when you arrive in Ireland. Household members who were not traveling with you do not need to self-isolate or restrict their movements. You may be contacted during the 14 days after you arrive in Ireland to check that you are self-isolating.

How to self-isolate upon arrival in Ireland:

• Stay at home, in a room with a window you can open.
• Keep away from others in your home as much as you can. Use a separate toilet if possible.
• Check your symptoms - call a doctor if they get worse. Phone your doctor if you need to - do not visit them.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes using a tissue - clean your hands properly afterward.
• Wash your hands properly and often.
• Use your own towel - do not share a towel with others.
• Clean your room every day with a household cleaner or disinfectant.
• Do not go outside unless you have your own outdoor space where you can get some fresh air
• Do not go outside unless you have your own outdoor space where you can get some fresh air.
• Do not go to work, school, religious services or public areas.
• Do not share your things. For example, food, dishes, drinking glasses or other household items.
• Do not use public transport or taxis.
• Do not invite visitors to your home.

The only people who do not need to self-isolate upon arrival into Ireland are people who are:

• arriving in the State from Northern Ireland
• aircraft crew, including pilots, in Ireland as part of their work duties
• holders of a Certificate for International Transport Workers, or drivers of a heavy goods vehicle, who are in Ireland for this work
• ship crew, including the maritime master, in the course of performing their duties

Per the US Embassy in Ireland on July 6 : “Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice. 

“There are no restrictions on flights from the United States to Ireland although the number of available flights is significantly diminished.  Aer Lingus is the only carrier flying to the United States from Ireland, with limited service from Dublin to Boston, Chicago, and New York.   Health Service Executive (HSE) staff are present at the Dublin and Shannon airports to assist arriving passengers who have concerns related to COVID-19.  

“If you are in Ireland and have symptoms, phone a doctor or dial 112 or 999 locally.  If someone tests positive for the virus, the Department of Health (DOH) will isolate and treat the individual.”

Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs has launched an advice centre for coronavirus-related travel queries. Phone 01 613 1733 or contact them via webchat .

Can I travel to the United States from the Republic of Ireland?

Update September 10, 2020: The CDC has announced that the US will no longer be funneling international arrivals through selected US airports as enhanced entry health screenings will cease from September 14. You can read more here .

Yes, but only if you are a US citizen or legal resident, or fall into one of the exemption categories. All travelers arriving into the US will be funneled through one of 13 designated airports. Anyone arriving into the US from abroad is urged by the CDC to self-isolate for 14 days .

In his proclamation issued on March 14 , US President Donald Trump wrote:

“The Republic of Ireland has an open border with the United Kingdom in that persons can generally move freely between the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom — by land to and from Northern Ireland and by ferry or aircraft to and from Wales, England, and Scotland.  This general ability to travel freely between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland poses the same challenges that the Schengen Area posed for suspending and limiting entry to the United States by travelers who had been physically present within any of the Schengen Area countries.  CDC has also determined that the Republic of Ireland is experiencing ongoing sustained person-to-person transmission of SARS-CoV-2.  As of March 13, 2020, the World Health Organization reported that the Republic of Ireland had 70 cases of COVID-19, 5 times more cases than there were 7 days prior. “The United States Government is unable to effectively evaluate and monitor all of the travelers continuing to arrive from the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.  The potential for undetected transmission of the virus by infected individuals seeking to enter the United States from the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland threatens the security of our transportation system and infrastructure and the national security.  Given the importance of protecting persons within the United States from the threat of this harmful communicable disease, I have determined that it is in the interests of the United States to take action to restrict and suspend the entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of all aliens who were physically present within the United Kingdom, excluding overseas territories outside of Europe, or the Republic of Ireland during the 14-day period preceding their entry or attempted entry into the United States.  The free flow of commerce between the United States and the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland remains an economic priority for the United States, and I remain committed to facilitating trade between our nations.”

American citizens, legal permanent residents, and their immediate families who are arriving from impacted areas, including Ireland, must travel through one of the following 13 airports where the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has established enhanced entry screening capabilities:

• Boston-Logan International Airport (BOS), Massachusetts
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
• Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Hawaii
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
• Los Angeles International Airport, (LAX), California
• Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington
• Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia 

Per the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) , “Upon arrival, travelers will proceed to standard customs processing. They will then continue to enhanced entry screening where the passenger will be asked about their medical history, current condition, and asked for contact information for local health authorities. Passengers will then be given written guidance about COVID-19 and directed to proceed to their final destination, and immediately home-quarantine in accordance with CDC best practices."

The following are the exemptions to the current ban on travelers entering the United States:

• any lawful permanent resident of the United States;
• any alien who is the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident;
• any alien who is the parent or legal guardian of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, provided that the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident is unmarried and under the age of 21;
• any alien who is the sibling of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, provided that both are unmarried and under the age of 21;
• any alien who is the child, foster child, or ward of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, or who is a prospective adoptee seeking to enter the United States pursuant to the IR-4 or IH-4 visa classifications;
• any alien traveling at the invitation of the United States Government for a purpose related to containment or mitigation of the virus;
• any alien traveling as a nonimmigrant pursuant to a C-1, D, or C-1/D nonimmigrant visa as a crewmember or any alien otherwise traveling to the United States as air or sea crew;
• any alien seeking entry into or transiting the United States pursuant to one of the following visas:  A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3 (as a foreign government official or immediate family member of an official), E-1 (as an employee of TECRO or TECO or the employee’s immediate family members), G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-4, or NATO-6 (or seeking to enter as a nonimmigrant in one of those NATO categories); or
• any alien whose travel falls within the scope of section 11 of the United Nations Headquarters Agreement;
• any alien whose entry would not pose a significant risk of introducing, transmitting, or spreading the virus, as determined by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the CDC Director or his designee;
• any alien whose entry would further important United States law enforcement objectives, as determined by the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, or their respective designees, based on a recommendation of the Attorney General or his designee;
• any alien whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, or their designees; or
• members of the U.S. Armed Forces and spouses and children of members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Nothing in this proclamation shall be construed to affect any individual’s eligibility for asylum, withholding of removal, or protection under the regulations issued pursuant to the legislation implementing the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, consistent with the laws and regulations of the United States.

For further information about travel to the United States from Ireland, view the Irish Embassy's website here . For more information about international arrivals into the US, view the CDC's advice page here .

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Ireland to US travel to resume in November for fully vaccinated

Passengers will have to show proof of vaccination and negative test from previous three days.

The United States is set to relax EU and UK travel restrictions for vaccinated passengers, according to reports. Photograph: iStock

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has welcomed the decision of the Biden administration to lift the US Covid-19 travel ban for fully vaccinated passengers in November.

The ban affects European countries, including Ireland, and it was first imposed by then president Donald Trump 18 months ago.The easing of the restrictions will be for fully vaccinated passengers who agree to Covid-19 tests and contact tracing.

On a visit to New York on Monday for the UN general assembly, Mr Martin said he was “delighted” to see that the ban is to be lifted, adding that the development would be a “fillip” for Ireland and Europe, highlighting the importance of transatlantic connectivity.

Mr Martin said it “reflects the progress we’ve all collectively made on the vaccination front”.

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The decision was also welcomed by Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney, who said the Government and EU partners had been seeking the move for a “considerable” time. “Ensuring ease of travel is vital for protecting our strong connections across the Atlantic, be that in business, academia, tourism or family connections.”

The American Chamber of Commerce in Ireland, which represents more than 700 US companies with operations in the State, said “full access to air connectivity” with the US was critical to Ireland’s recovery post pandemic.

“This announcement restores the important ability for key Irish and US executives to travel to and from the US. Also, given that Ireland is the ninth largest investor in the US, it is equally critical for these companies too,” it said.

The tourism sector also welcomed the move. Elaina Fitzgerald Kane, president of the Irish Hotels Federation, said on Twitter that the US’s decision would provide a “much-needed boost for airlines” and was “an important step on the road to tourism recovery”.

Passengers who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 will be able to travel to the US from anywhere in the world from November, the Biden administration said.

The White House said on Monday that anyone wanting to fly to the US would have to show proof of having been fully vaccinated and a negative test taken in the previous three days, starting in early November. They will also have to wear a mask for the journey and to share their telephone number and email address for contact tracing.

Since last year, people without US citizenship, green cards or specific exemptions have been banned from travelling to the US if they have been in Ireland, the UK, the Schengen area, China, India, Iran, South Africa or Brazil in the previous 14 days.

The US announced the new system just as foreign leaders arrived in New York for the UN meetings, and a day before President Biden was due to meet British prime minister Boris Johnson at the White House.

“This new system allows us to implement strict protocols to prevent the spread of Covid from passengers flying internationally to the United States. Requiring foreign nationals travelling to the United States be fully vaccinated is based on public health,” Jeff Zients, the head of Mr Biden’s Covid-19 task force, said on Monday. “This is based on individuals rather than a country-based approach.”

The travel bans were first put in place by Mr Trump last year as his administration tried to slow the spread of Covid-19. He removed them on his final day in the White House but they were immediately reimposed by Mr Biden.

The Biden administration had been cautious about reversing the bans, despite heavy pressure from London and Brussels, as the contagious Delta variant of coronavirus spread rapidly.

The US Centers for Disease Control is drawing up a list of which vaccines will be accepted by the US. The Food and Drug Administration has authorised vaccines made by BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson.

Officials said the AstraZeneca vaccine, which has been used widely in the EU and UK, is also likely to be accepted. But it is not yet clear whether other vaccines, such as those used in China and Russia, will be accepted by US authorities.

Shares in IAG, the owner of British Airways and Aer Lingus, jumped more than 10 per cent on Monday afternoon to trade at 165.3p mid-afternoon in London, as investors cheered the prospect of a return to transatlantic travel. Aer Lingus welcomed the lifting of the ban.

Other airline stocks rose following the news, including low-cost carrier EasyJet, which climbed 3.4 per cent in London. Air France’s shares were trading 6.7 per cent higher in Paris, while Lufthansa gained 5.3 per cent.

‘Christmas present’

Paul Charles, an adviser to several travel companies, including Finnair and Tourism Ireland, described the reopening of travel for fully vaccinated passengers between Europe and the US as “probably the best news for the travel sector yet during the pandemic”.

“It’s an early Christmas present for BA, Virgin Atlantic and Aer Lingus, who can’t fully recover until the transatlantic corridors open up,” he said.

US airlines including American, United and Delta welcomed the news, although their stocks did not respond as robustly as their UK and European counterparts. Although the reopening helps carriers on both sides of the Atlantic, Raymond James analyst Savanthi Syth said it disproportionately benefited UK and European airlines, which sell 60 per cent of their tickets in their home markets.

If restrictions are lifted quickly enough, travellers should be able to book tickets for Christmas, and possibly Easter, she said. – Additional reporting by the Financial Times Limited 2021

Cormac McQuinn

Cormac McQuinn is a Political Correspondent at The Irish Times

Arthur Beesley

Arthur Beesley is Current Affairs Editor of The Irish Times

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Ireland Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Ireland

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

Ireland entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to ireland, find stays in ireland, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

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Can I travel to Ireland from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ireland.

Can I travel to Ireland if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Ireland without restrictions.

Can I travel to Ireland without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Ireland without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Ireland?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Ireland.

Can I travel to Ireland without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Ireland?

Mask usage in Ireland is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Ireland?

Restaurants in Ireland are open. Bars in Ireland are .

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International Travel Restrictions by Country

Find out where you can travel and covid-19 policies.

Select origin country, search destination or select a country on the map to see travel restrictions.

The travel status of individual countries can change suddenly, and we know it can be hard to stay on top of it all. That's why we're getting you the information you need to consider when planning travel. Learn about country-specific entry requirements such as the border status, COVID-19 testing requirements, and quarantine requirements. Many countries are reopening their borders for international travel. Find out which countries are open to vaccinated travellers.

Just enter your departure country above - the map will update to reflect countries' opening status and any entry requirements for air travellers. Before you book, be sure to double check your country's official government site.

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Czech republic, netherlands, philippines, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, united states, know when to go.

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Filter by region, status and more

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Albania.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Algeria.

American Samoa

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter American Samoa.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Angola.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Anguilla.

Antigua And Barbuda

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Antigua And Barbuda.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Argentina.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Armenia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Aruba.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Australia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Austria.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Azerbaijan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bahrain.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bangladesh.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Barbados.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belgium.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Belize.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Benin.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bermuda.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bhutan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bolivia.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Botswana.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brazil.

British Virgin Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the British Virgin Islands.

Brunei Darussalam

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Brunei Darussalam.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Bulgaria.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Burundi.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cambodia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cameroon.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Canada.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cape Verde.

Caribbean Netherlands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Caribbean Netherlands.

Cayman Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cayman Islands.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chad.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Chile.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter China.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Colombia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Comoros.

Cook Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Cook Islands.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Costa Rica.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Croatia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Curaçao.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cyprus.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Czech Republic.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Denmark.

Fully vaccinated visitors from Ireland can enter Djibouti without restrictions.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Dominica.

Dominican Republic

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Dominican Republic.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, need to quarantine to enter East Timor.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ecuador.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Egypt.

El Salvador

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter El Salvador.

Equatorial Guinea

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Equatorial Guinea.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eritrea.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Estonia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Eswatini.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ethiopia.

Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas).

Faroe Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Faroe Islands.

Federated States of Micronesia

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Federated States of Micronesia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Fiji.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Finland.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter France.

French Guiana

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Guiana.

French Polynesia

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter French Polynesia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gabon.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Gambia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Georgia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Germany.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ghana.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Gibraltar.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greece.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Greenland.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Grenada.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guadeloupe.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guam.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guatemala.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea.

Guinea-Bissau

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guinea-Bissau.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Guyana.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Honduras.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hong Kong.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Hungary.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Iceland.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter India.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Indonesia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Italy.

Ivory Coast

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Ivory Coast.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jamaica.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Japan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jersey.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Jordan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kazakhstan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kenya.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kiribati.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kosovo.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kuwait.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Kyrgyzstan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Laos.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Latvia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lesotho.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liberia.

Liechtenstein

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Liechtenstein.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Lithuania.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Luxembourg.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Macau.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Madagascar.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malawi.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malaysia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Maldives.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Malta.

Marshall Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Marshall Islands.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Martinique.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritania.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mauritius.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mayotte.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mexico.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Moldova.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mongolia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montenegro.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montserrat.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Mozambique.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Namibia.

Fully vaccinated visitors from Ireland can enter Nauru without restrictions.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nepal.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Netherlands.

New Caledonia

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Caledonia.

New Zealand

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter New Zealand.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nicaragua.

Fully vaccinated visitors from Ireland can enter Niger without restrictions.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Nigeria.

North Macedonia

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter North Macedonia.

Northern Mariana Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Northern Mariana Islands.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Norway.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Oman.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Pakistan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Palau.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Panama.

Papua New Guinea

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Papua New Guinea.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Paraguay.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Peru.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Philippines.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Poland.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Portugal.

Puerto Rico

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Puerto Rico.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Qatar.

Republic of the Congo

Fully vaccinated visitors from Ireland can enter Republic of the Congo without restrictions.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Réunion.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Romania.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Rwanda.

Saint Barthélemy

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Barthélemy.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Saint Lucia

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Lucia.

Saint Martin

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Martin.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Samoa.

São Tomé and Príncipe

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter São Tomé and Príncipe.

Saudi Arabia

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Saudi Arabia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Senegal.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Serbia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Seychelles.

Sierra Leone

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sierra Leone.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Singapore.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovakia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Slovenia.

Solomon Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Solomon Islands.

South Africa

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Africa.

South Korea

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Korea.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Spain.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sri Lanka.

St. Maarten

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter St. Maarten.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sudan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Suriname.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sweden.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Switzerland.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Taiwan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tajikistan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tanzania.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Thailand.

The Bahamas

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter The Bahamas.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Togo.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tonga.

Trinidad and Tobago

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Trinidad and Tobago.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tunisia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Türkiye.

Turkmenistan

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Turkmenistan.

Turks and Caicos Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Tuvalu.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uganda.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Arab Emirates.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United Kingdom.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United States.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uruguay.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Uzbekistan.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vanuatu.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Vietnam.

Wallis and Futuna

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Wallis and Futuna.

Western Sahara

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, will not be allowed to enter Western Sahara.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zambia.

Most visitors from Ireland, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Zimbabwe.

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How often is the data on this page updated.

We check for travel restriction information from government authorities daily and update the page any time we get new information. The following information regarding travel restrictions for each country is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.

How many countries are closed to visitors?

As of 11 Sep, 2 countries have completely restricted entry to non-citizens and 5 are open but require quarantine and/or a negative COVID test.

Where can I travel without COVID restrictions?

Currently you can travel from Ireland to 197 countries without restrictions. Please check our map to learn more.

Are there any other types of travel restrictions besides COVID-19 tests and quarantines?

These are the two main types of restrictions or requirements needed to travel into another country. However, the COVID-19 testing options are continually widening as new methods are developed. Different countries may accept results from different or multiple test types, so be sure to check the individual country's specific requirements.

What should I do if I get COVID-19 while in another country?

If you get COVID-19 while in another country, follow the local authority's recommendations. These may include hospitalisation, self-isolating and testing in that country. Be sure to contact your travel insurance company and travel provider as well and inform them of your situation.

What should I do if the borders of the country I am visiting close?

Depending on your home country, you may need to change your departure date and return home as soon as possible. If that's the case, contact your travel provider to find the earliest departure.

Additional resources

• What you need to know
• Airline policies
• Hotel policies
• Car policies
• Tips for flying
• Tips for hotel
• Tips for holiday rentals

If you're looking for personalised travel advice for your own travel plans like whether or not a restriction applies to your trip, we won't be able to answer any questions or offer advice. Please consult your local government's resources.

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Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

• As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.  arriving by air  or  arriving by land or sea  no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 
• As of June 12, 2022,  people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test . 

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific COVID-19 travel rules from the Department of State.

See the  CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

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US embassy in Dublin warns visitors to Ireland to avoid walking alone

Personal security alert issued after violent attack on tourist from New York

The US embassy in Dublin has advised visitors to Ireland to avoid walking alone and to keep a “low profile” after an attack on a tourist from New York.

The embassy alert , issued on Tuesday, urged US visitors to “exercise good personal security practices” to be aware of their surroundings.

“Avoid walking alone, if possible, especially during hours of darkness. Do not wear or display expensive jewellery or watches and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Avoid placing passports, cash, cell phones, or other valuables in the outer pockets of backpacks or purses or on tables in public places,” the embassy warned.

Other tips included: “Avoid staring at your phone while walking in public areas. Limit earbud/headphone use when in public. Be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Keep a low profile.”

The warning comes after an assault that left Stephen Termini, 57, with life-changing injuries . A group of youths attacked the New Yorker on Store Street, in Dublin’s north inner city, on 19 July. He was staying at a guesthouse in nearby Talbot Street. A teenage boy has been charged.

The attack on Termini and other recent violent incidents in Dublin have prompted an outcry. The taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, called for more visible policing. “Our cities kind of deteriorated during the pandemic period and have never really come back to the level of safety that they were,” he said.

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The US state department’s travel advisory website still rates Ireland at level 1 , which means “exercise normal precautions”.

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Ireland Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, ireland - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Ireland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ireland.

If you decide to travel to Ireland:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Ireland.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, ireland map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Yes you can go to Ireland; Everything you need to know

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

Ireland is open to Americans just like its neighbor the United Kingdom, but it has enacted the same 14-day quarantine requirement that will scare off most American travelers.

For more travel tips and news, sign up for our daily newsletter

Ireland is open but...

Ireland is open to Americans, but you must self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.

All arrivals from outside Ireland including citizens and residents are required to isolate themselves for two full weeks. You'll also need to fill out a "Passenger Locator Form" saying where you will be quarantining. There is a fine of up to $2,860 or six months in jail for refusing to fill out the form or falsifying records.

Ireland is a member of the European Union, but unlike other countries in the EU, it did not ban non-essential travel, not even from the U.S. where coronavirus is still raging. Most of Europe is allowing some international tourists, but Americans are not among them. Ireland, on the other hand, never pulled up the welcome mat. The Irish government does advise against nonessential travel to the country, but it's not forbidden and Americans are taking advantage. This policy will apparently be revisited on July 20 so make sure you are doing your research if you plan a trip.

Meantime, Ireland is dealing with visitors who are violating the country's 14-day self-quarantine rule. The New York Times wrote a whole article on this problem . Some TPG readers have also reported that Americans are going to Ireland, skipping quarantine and visiting other parts of Europe. Not only is that illegal, but it's also unethical and endangers other humans. Don't do that.

Don't miss TPG's Ireland hub — it's got everything you need to know about traveling to the Emerald Isle.

What you need to visit Ireland

Pre-departure.

• Fill out a form prior to arrival with quarantine information
• Wear face masks when traveling to the departure airport
• Wear face masks and practice physical distancing at the departure airport

On the plane

• Wear a face mask while on the plane
• Practice social distancing to the extent possible

Upon arrival

• Present a form verifying where you will quarantine
• Potentially face a health screening
• Quarantine for two weeks

More information can be found here including frequently asked questions.

What is open in Ireland

After a period of closure, some restaurants and hotels began reopening on June 29. Social distancing rules mean the numbers allowed in businesses will be severely limited.

In fact, Ireland on July 15 delayed entering its fourth and final phase of reopening that was supposed to begin on July 20. Prime Minister Micheál Martin announced current restrictions will remain in place until Aug. 10.

Related: Visiting Dublin and Edinburgh

Pubs, bars, nightclubs and casinos without outdoor areas must remain closed until August. Pubs and bars that serve food and are currently operating can remain open, but they must follow strict health guidelines.

Face masks are required inside all businesses.

Tour buses and public transportation are operating again, but masks and social distancing are required.

Museums, castles, churches and other cultural centers are also resuming activities. The popular Dublin Castle reopened on June 29.

As of right now, Ireland is set to enter Phase 4 of its reopening on August 10.

How to get to Ireland

There are a plethora of ways to get to Ireland, and it's usually cheap using both miles and/or cash. I did research on a potential trip in September of 2020 using the dates Sept. 4-12th.

On American Airlines, Basic Economy was going for $766 or $906 in the main cabin. Business class cost $3,342, and first class cost $5,942. The great thing about those flights is that they would be on British Airways metal, and it might be your last chance to fly on BA's 747-400. British Airways reported on July 16, they were retiring the Boeing double-deckers.

Read more: Second Cities: Destinations to add onto a trip to Dublin

Strangely if you try to use miles from New York, you end up on American Airlines metal via Dallas. It would cost you 60,000 American Airlines miles in economy plus $50 in taxes and fees or a whopping 265,000 miles plus $758 in taxes and fees for business class. And that is for a web special ! If you wanted to avoid the restrictions that come along with web specials, it would set you back 357,500 miles.

Later in the year, I was able to find better routing via Philadelphia for just 45,000 miles in coach. It would run you 245,000 AA miles for the same flight in business class.

Ireland's flagship carrier Aer Lingus is owned by the same parent company as British Airways and Iberia, but it's not formally part of Oneworld. It also probably represents the best opportunities to use points or miles to fly between the U.S. and Ireland, including in its highly rated international business class . It flies (normally) from these U.S. cities:

• Boston (BOS)
• Chicago (ORD)
• Hartford (BDL)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• Miami (MIA)
• Newark (EWR)
• New York (JFK)
• Orlando (MCO)
• Philadelphia (PHL)
• San Francisco (SFO)
• Toronto (YYZ)
• Washington DC (IAD)

It also flies from Shannon (SNN) to Boston and New York JFK though some of this routing isn't available in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. You can check our guide to booking Aer Lingus awards using points and miles here.

Related: Top tips to visit Ireland on a budget

Aer Lingus's AerClub mileage program was added as a Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partner, so you can always transfer points from there.

United flies from Houston to Dublin via Newark-EWR for 60,000 United miles in September or $1,385. I found fares as low as $592 in basic economy.

United still partners with Aer Lingus, and you can use United MileagePlus miles to fly to Dublin from numerous U.S. gateways. I found flights in coach for as few as 66,000 United miles.

Related: Review of Aer Lingus' A321neo in economy, Dublin–Philadelphia

Delta usually flies nonstop to Dublin from its hub at New York-JFK, but because of COVID-19, those flights are on hold.

If you wanted to fly from Atlanta in September you'd need to stop in Paris (CDG) or Amsterdam (AMS) on the way there and it would cost you $1,272 for basic economy or $1,400 in main cabin. It would be 80,000 Delta SkyMiles. Same deal with flights from New York-JFK and Detroit (DTW).

In May, non-stop from JFK are bookable again and go for about $917 roundtrip. The same itinerary would run you 84,000 Delta SkyMiles.

There are also plenty of options to fly to Ireland using points and miles from more than 20 U.K. airports.

Where to stay in Ireland

Good news here too. There are a ton of points properties in Ireland.

One of my favorites is the Westin in Dublin. I stayed back in 2015 and really enjoyed the five-star service and the large, modern rooms.

Related: Going to Dublin for St Patrick's Day on points and miles

It's built in a renovated 19th-century building with a clock tower not far from the famous Dublin Spire. It's in a perfect location in the heart of the city and across from the famous Trinity College Library and its incredible Old Library which houses the Book of Kells. It's also a short walk to the River Liffey.

I found room rates starting at $291 per night or 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. But there are a ton of other Marriott properties available too starting at just $96/night (The Moxy Dublin City)

Hilton has several properties in the city, including a Conrad. The Hilton Dublin had rooms in September starting at $139 a night. If you wanted to use Hilton Honors points, you could stay for as little as 39,000 points a night. The Morrison, a DoubleTree property in Dublin would be $224 a night or 59,000 Hilton Honors points per night. Rates at the Conrad Dublin are high at $252 a night or 67,000 Hilton Honors points.

Rates at the Conrad Dublin are high at $252 a night or 67,000 Hilton Honors points.

Hyatt also has two properties in Dublin. There's a Hyatt Centric starting at $137 a night or 12,000 World of Hyatt points, and a Brooks Hotel part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) program. Brooks is $223 a night, and you can't use World of Hyatt points.

With IHG Rewards, you have a few choices. The Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre is available starting at $106 or just over 21,000 IHG points per night. The InterContinental starts at $291 a night or 55,000 points per night.

The Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport , Holiday Inn Express Dublin Airport and Crowne Plaza Dublin-Blanchardstown (a ways from the center) are all available for decent prices (as low as $75/night in September.)

Club Carlson fields the Radisson Blu St. Helen's Hotel , Dublin and the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dublin Airport , both of which have decent paid rates. Points rates are also available.

Related: 7 great Radisson redemptions

Several are members of American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts where The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express can get you elite-style perks. Visa Signature Hotels include The Merrion, the Westin and The Westbury as well as the Conrad.

Another great option would be to take advantage of the fourth-night-free benefit on the Citi Prestige® Card. The information for the Citi Prestige card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Of course Ireland is a lot more than just Dublin, but the city is a great jumping-off point for other Irish adventures once you are out of quarantine or when there are less limitations.

Conclusion on visiting Ireland 

Ireland is a great country. I've been twice and really enjoyed the friendly people, good prices and easy ways to get there. Now, however, is not the time to visit. Hopefully, the United States will get the spread of coronavirus under control soon, and the quarantine order will be lifted. Until then, I'll be dreaming of the Emerald Isle, and contemplating a future trip.

Additional reporting by Ariana Arghandewal, Richard Kerr, and Eric Rosen.

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Warnings and insurance

This travel advice also covers American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and United States Virgin Islands.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• women travellers
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• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and  get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out  more about  FCDO  travel advice .

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Flying With Dogs or Cats? These Are Airlines’ Pet Policies

American recently relaxed its rules for pets traveling inside the cabin with their owners. Here’s what the major U.S. airlines require to travel with a pet.

By Jesus Jiménez

Flying with a pet can be expensive and confusing, with fees, weight limits, carrier size rules and the need to make sure there’s no loud barking (or meowing) on board.

Recently, American Airlines relaxed its pet policy to allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag in addition to a pet in a carrier, and more private flight options have been emerging in recent years for pet owners who can afford them.

Still, flying with large or medium-size dogs can be tricky, and many travelers are wary of leaving a pet in the plane’s cargo hold.

For those traveling on the major carriers with their pets as carry-ons, here’s what to know about each major domestic airline’s policy.

Southwest Airlines

On Southwest, a Dallas-based carrier, two checked bags can fly at no cost, but not pets. Southwest charges $125 per pet carrier on its flights.

Dogs or cats are allowed to travel below a seat in an approved carrier — up to 18.5 inches long by 8.5 inches high and 13.5 inches wide — according to the airline .

Southwest has a few caveats for those traveling with pets: The pet must stay in its carrier during the flight, and the carrier is considered a personal item or carry-on bag.

Up to six pets are allowed on Southwest flights. Once six pets are booked onto a flight, no further customers may add a pet companion to their booking.

United Airlines

United Airlines has no weight or breed restrictions for cats and dogs as long as they are in an approved hard or soft-sided carrier, measuring 17.5 inches long by 9 inches tall and 12 inches wide for a hard carrier, or 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide for a soft carrier.

United charges $125 each way for travel with pets. There is no fee for service animals on United flights, but some forms are required before the flight.

The carrier must fit under a seat, and where a passenger is allowed to sit can vary according to the type of aircraft. For example, people traveling with pets cannot sit in emergency rows. If you’re traveling with two pets (the maximum allotted), you are required to book two seats.

Delta Air Lines

Small dogs and cats can travel on Delta Air Lines flights as long as they can fit inside a carrier stored below the seat. The size of the carrier depends on the aircraft, but in general the airline recommends a soft-sided carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

Your pet must be at least 8 weeks old and small enough to have some room to move around in the carrier, which must have ventilation openings on three sides.

Delta charges $95 for pets traveling as carry-on companions, and the passenger can bring only one personal item along with the pet. Certain seats cannot be booked for travel with an animal, such as those in an emergency exit row.

American Airlines

American Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in a carry-on container, which must remain under the seat in front of the pet owner throughout the flight. The airline recommends a soft-sided carrier that measures 18 inches long by 11 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

The fee for a carry-on pet on a domestic American Airlines flight is $150.

Flights are limited to seven carry-on pets, not including service animals, and American Eagle flights are limited to five carry-on pets, with one in first class. There is no charge for service animals flying on American flight, but the airline requires forms to be filled out in advance.

The airline said in a statement that it had recently changed its cabin pet policy to allow customers with a pet to also bring either a personal item or carry-on bag stowed in the overhead bin (but not both).

“We made the change to provide a more convenient and comfortable experience to customers whose pets fly American,” the airline said.

Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier and Alaska

Spirit allows dogs and cats on its flights in a carrier no larger than 18 inches long by 14 inches wide and 9 inches tall for a fee of $125. The weight of the pet and the carrier cannot exceed 40 pounds, according to the airline .

Small dogs and cats can fly on JetBlue for fee of $125 each way , in an approved carrier. Up to six pets are allowed on JetBlue flights.

Frontier allows pets on board for a $99 fee each way, as long the pet fits in a carrier. Passengers can have only a personal item or carry-on in addition to their pet carrier.

Pets can travel in a carrier on Alaska Airlines flights for a fee of $100 each way. A passenger can travel with a pet carrier and a personal item, or a carrier and a carry-on bag.

Private or charter flights

Those who take their pets on private or charter flights, which can cost many thousands of dollars, have much more leeway. Dogs that weigh less than 150 pounds can sit on seats.

BarkAir, a charter operator tailored specifically for those flying with dogs, charges about $6,000 for a dog and its owner to travel, with flights between New York and Los Angeles and New York and London. Carriers are not required, and dogs can sit on laps, seats or beds.

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .