merrion street

As the summer travel season approaches its busiest period, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, has reminded citizens to prepare in advance for safe summer holidays:

“With international travel back to pre-pandemic levels, and in some cases beyond, many Irish citizens will be taking trips abroad this summer. My Department and I want to ensure that Irish citizens are equipped with all the relevant information before they travel to ensure a stress-free and safe holiday.

“I would advise everyone going overseas this summer to ‘Know Before You Go’ - check our travel advice for your destination for important information about safety and security, local laws and customs, visas and more. I would emphasise this message in particular to young people who may be heading off on a sixth-year holiday or anyone travelling to a long-haul destination.”

The Tánaiste added:

“Be sure to check that your passport is still valid before you book a holiday. This is especially important for travel to countries with a minimum validity requirement. The fastest way to renew your Irish passport is through the Passport Online service.

“We advise that you also take your passport card for use in countries where it is valid, which will be particularly useful if you lose your passport.  I would also urge all those travelling to purchase comprehensive travel insurance and that citizens travelling to continental Europe carry a European Health Insurance Card.”

Although most trips abroad are trouble-free, our network of Irish Embassies and Consulates across the world is available to assist in case something does go wrong for Irish citizens abroad.

The Tánaiste advised citizens that:

“All those travelling should be aware of your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate while abroad, and anyone travelling further afield should register their details with us via our online Citizens’ Registration service, so that we can contact you should an unforeseen crisis arise while you are travelling”.

ENDS

Note to Editors:

• The Department of Foreign Affairs provides country-specific travel advice for 199 countries and territories to help citizens to make informed decisions when planning a trip overseas: www.dfa.ie/travel
• An email service is also available for those with urgent queries at traveladvice@dfa.ie