TORONTO — Ireland is now welcoming Canadians with valid proof of vaccination against COVID-19 and eliminating the need for them to undergo travel-related testing or quarantine measures.
The eased measures came into effect on July 19. Those who do not have valid proof of vaccination will need to present evidence of a negative RT-PCR test result within 72 hours prior to arrival into Ireland, self-quarantine and undergo post-arrival testing, which will be provided through the Health Service Executive in destination.
Before arrival, Canadians will need to complete a Passenger Locator Form, which will be checked prior to departure to Ireland by the relevant carrier. Visitors mays also be asked to provide the vaccination certificate indicated on their form. Upon arrival in Ireland, spot checks will be carried out on proof of vaccinations and negative RT-PCR tests as appropriate.
As of July 19, children between the ages of 12 and 17 must have a negative RT-PCR test to travel into Ireland, even with fully vaccinated or recovered adults. This requirement is waived for children under 12.
In a letter to the Canadian travel trade, Niall Gibbons, Chief Executive at Tourism Ireland, said; “The tourism industry right across the island of Ireland is very much looking forward to welcoming back your clients from overseas will ensure they enjoy their visit. The health and safety of all our visitors continues to be the priority and we will ensure they are protected alongside a very warm Irish welcome and a great holiday experience.”
Also worth noting, starting July 26, only those fully vaccinated or with proof of recovery from COVID-19 in the past six months are able to avail of indoor hospitality during their stay in Ireland. Those staying in hotels can make use of indoor hospitality options within their hotel.
An ‘emergency brake’ mechanism has been implemented Ireland’s government to respond to variants of concern or interest. In the event that this mechanism is applied to Canadian visitors, the requirements will change. More details can be found on the Irish Government website.
Northern Ireland is operating a system of green, red and amber countries and the measures in place will depend on the countries the visitor is travelling from or passing through. Canada is currently on the amber list of countries, meaning that if visitors are travelling to Northern Ireland either directly or via another country, including Ireland, they must do the following:
- Provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken up to three days before departure
- Book post-arrival testing
- Complete a UK passenger locator form either on arrival or in the 48 hours before arrival
- Self-isolate for 10 days
For more information about travel to Northern Ireland click here.
