Entry Requirements and Visas
Ireland has different visa requirements depending on your citizenship. Citizens of EU and EEA countries and Switzerland need only a valid national identity card or passport and do not require a visa. British citizens may live and work freely in Ireland.
Citizens of many countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United States, and numerous others, may enter Ireland without a visa for visits up to 90 days. The period of admission is determined by the Immigration Officer at the port of entry but can be extended up to the full 90 days if required. Foreigners who enter without a visa can also extend this stay after entry, but within the initial period of admission and with a valid purpose.
If your citizenship is not listed among the visa-exempt countries, you will need to apply for a visa in advance. The application process for tourist visas is reasonably straightforward and is detailed on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website. Tourist visas cannot be extended past 90 days under any circumstances.
If you are traveling with a pet, check the entry rules beforehand, as some diseases common on the European mainland are absent from Ireland and there are specific requirements for bringing animals into the country.