Ireland: Authorities ease domestic COVID-19 restrictions as of Oct. 22 /update 47

Ireland eases domestic COVID-19 restrictions as of Oct. 22; international entry restrictions remain in place.

Event

Authorities in Ireland are easing domestic restrictions imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 as of Oct. 22. From this date, nightclubs and similar entertainment venues will be permitted to reopen up to full capacity, and the requirement for bars and restaurants to close at 23:30 will be lifted. Evidence of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 is required to access these facilities. Most other businesses and services are operating subject to capacity and social-distancing measures. People may entertain visitors from only one other household; there is no limit on social gatherings involving only people who have been fully vaccinated or who have recovered from COVID-19 in the previous nine months. Facemasks remain mandatory in enclosed public spaces.

International Entry Restrictions
Travelers from the EU, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland must possess proof of vaccination against COVID-19, recovery from COVID-19, or a negative PCR test taken in the 72 hours before arrival to enter. Travelers from other countries with proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19 may enter without the need to isolate; other travelers must have a negative PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours and self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. Isolation can be ended early following a negative PCR test taken on day five of the isolation period. Travelers arriving without any of these requirements will be placed in a government-designated quarantine facility until a negative PCR result is confirmed. Irish authorities accept the EU Digital COVID Certificate as evidence of vaccination, recovery, or negative test.

All permitted arrivals must fill out a passenger locator form before travel; travelers arriving from Northern Ireland who have not visited other countries in the preceding 14 days are exempt from this requirement and testing and isolation requirements. Additional exemptions to testing and quarantine requirements are in place for certain categories of essential work and travel.

Authorities could reintroduce, extend, or otherwise amend restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.