From the 05 June 2024, temporary measures which allowed Ukrainian nationals to travel to Ireland without a valid biometric passport will cease to be in effect. In accordance with section 4 of the Irish Immigration Act 2004, all third country nationals, including Ukrainians, who are travelling to Ireland must be in possession of a valid passport.
General Information
As part of an emergency response to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022, Ireland temporarily suspended the requirement for a biometric passport from Ukrainian nationals who wished to enter the State. This suspension was aligned with practice in other EU Member States and in accordance with guidelines from the EU Commission.
While the suspension was activated, Ukrainian nationals seeking to enter the State could rely upon alternative documentation as proof of their nationality including expired biometric passports or internal passports. However, from 05 June, Ukrainian nationals who plan on travelling to Ireland will, in accordance with section 4 of the Immigration Act 2004, require a valid biometric passport for entry into the State. For current beneficiaries of temporary protection in Ireland, it is important to be aware of this requirement if making any plans to temporarily leave the country.
Q&A
Why is this being changed now?
As part of a wide-ranging emergency response to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Ireland suspended the requirement for Ukrainian citizens to possess a biometric passport for travel to Ireland. Until now, in cases where valid biometric passports were not available, other documentation such as expired biometric passports or internal passports could be used to verify a person’s Ukrainian nationality. This supported a swift response to the emerging crisis and ensured that many people who could not access or renew their travel documents could still flee to safety. The situation has evolved since the outbreak of the war and it is important to move from an emergency response to a more sustainable one.
Will this prevent Ukrainians travelling to Ireland?
No, the majority of Ukrainian nationals travelling to Ireland are in possession of a valid biometric passport. Ukrainian nationals remain non-visa required when travelling to Ireland.
Will a beneficiary of temporary protection in Ireland lose their protection if they do not have a valid biometric passport?
No, this does not impact upon temporary protection status, but a beneficiary will require a valid biometric passport to re-enter Ireland if they intend on travelling outside the State.
Can a Ukrainian national travel to Ireland on a biometric passport that has been extended by the Embassies abroad or State Migration Service of Ukraine?
It is possible to travel to Ireland on a biometric passport that has been extended by the Ukrainian authorities, as long as such an extension does not bring the validity of the passport beyond a maximum of 10 years from the issue date.
Can children under 16 travel to Ireland on their parents’ passport?
Yes, it is possible for children under 16 to travel to Ireland on their parents’ passport provided that their information is included in the passport, and they are accompanied by the holder of the passport.