Americans can visit Ireland for up to 90 days with just a valid passport. But Northern Ireland is a different story. Here's what you need to know about entry requirements and the distinction between the two.
Planning a trip to Dublin, the Wild Atlantic Way, or the Ring of Kerry? Good news: Americans can visit Ireland for up to 90 days without a visa. You just need a valid passport. But there's an important distinction to understand if you're planning to visit both parts of the island.
Ireland is NOT part of the Schengen Area, which means it operates under different rules than most of continental Europe. This can actually work in your favor if you're planning extended travel.
The Short Answer: 90 Days Visa-Free
According to the US State Department, American citizens can enter the Republic of Ireland for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa. When you arrive, immigration will stamp your passport, granting you "permission to land."
Entry Requirements
Ireland's entry requirements are straightforward:
- Valid US passport for the duration of your stay (no minimum validity requirement like Schengen countries)
- At least one blank page for the entry stamp
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay
- Return or onward ticket
Important: The State Department notes that an increased number of Americans have been refused entry or given limited stays due to insufficient demonstration of travel intent. Make sure you can clearly explain your travel plans and show you have the means to support yourself.
Currency Declaration
If you're carrying €10,000 or more (or the equivalent in other currencies), you must declare it when entering or leaving Ireland.
Republic of Ireland vs. Northern Ireland
This is where many travelers get confused. The island of Ireland contains two different countries with different entry requirements:
| Destination | Country | US Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Dublin, Cork, Galway, Ring of Kerry | Republic of Ireland | Passport only (no ETA) |
| Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Derry | Northern Ireland (UK) | Passport + UK ETA |
Since April 2, 2025, US citizens need a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit Northern Ireland. There's no physical border or checkpoints between the two, but if you're planning to visit Belfast or the Game of Thrones filming locations (many are in Northern Ireland), you'll need both your passport and a UK ETA.
Ireland vs. Schengen: Key Differences
Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area, which has important implications for travelers:
- Time in Ireland doesn't count toward your Schengen 90-day limit
- ETIAS (the new European pre-authorization) will NOT apply to Ireland when it launches in late 2026
- Passport control exists between Ireland and Schengen countries
This separation can work to your advantage. If you've used up your 90 Schengen days, you can still visit Ireland for up to 90 more days. Or you can start in Ireland, then move to the Schengen Area with a fresh 90-day limit.
If you're planning trips that include both Ireland and Schengen countries, use our free Schengen calculator to track your continental European days, and the Days Monitor app for automatic tracking.
Staying Longer Than 90 Days
If you want to stay in Ireland longer than 90 days, you'll need to register for an Irish Residence Permit. Unlike Portugal, Spain, or Greece, Ireland does not have a digital nomad visa.
Your Options
Stamp 0 (Self-Sufficient): If you have approximately €50,000 in annual income from non-Irish sources, you may qualify for Stamp 0 permission. However, remote work is only allowed if explicitly permitted, and this doesn't lead to permanent residence.
Stamp 1 (Employment Permit): If you have a job offer from an Irish employer with a salary of €44,000 or more, you can apply for an employment permit.
Stamp 4 (Full Work Rights): After holding certain permits (Critical Skills for 2 years, or general employment for 5 years), you may qualify for Stamp 4, which allows full work rights without needing a permit.
If you're specifically looking for a digital nomad arrangement, consider Portugal's D8 visa or Spain's Digital Nomad Visa as alternatives.
Planning Your Ireland Trip
For most American tourists, 90 days is plenty of time to explore Ireland's stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich history. Just remember:
- You only need your passport for the Republic of Ireland
- Get a UK ETA if you're visiting Northern Ireland
- Your Ireland days don't affect your Schengen limit
- Be prepared to demonstrate your travel plans and financial means at entry
For help tracking your Schengen days on the rest of your European travels, use our free Schengen calculator or download the Days Monitor app.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or immigration advice. Entry requirements can change. Always verify current requirements with the US State Department or Irish Immigration Service before making travel plans.
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