Ireland: Authorities tighten COVID-19-related entry restrictions for travelers from Great Britain as of June 15 /update 38

Ireland tightens COVID-19 entry restrictions for travelers from Great Britain as of June 15; domestic measures remain in place.

Event

Authorities in Ireland are tightening the nation's COVID-19-related international entry restrictions for non-vaccinated travelers arriving from England, Scotland, and Wales due to concerns over variant strains of the virus present in those countries. As of June 15, the isolation period for all travelers arriving from the three countries of Great Britain has been increased from five to 10 days. Such persons will need to receive two negative PCR tests - one on day five of their stay and one on day ten -before being allowed to leave isolation. Fully vaccinated travelers entering from these countries must still self-isolate for five days, after which they can leave isolation.

All incoming travelers must complete a passenger locator form prior to arrival and possess a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to travel. Additionally, all travelers, unless otherwise indicated, must self-isolate for 14 days on arrival, though those from lower-risk countries may end their quarantine periods early by taking a COVID-19 test confirming a negative result no less than five days after arrival. Essential transport workers and individuals in transit, as well as travelers whose journeys originate in Northern Ireland and who have not been abroad in the last 14 days, are exempt from these requirements.

Travelers arriving from several countries must quarantine for 14 days at a government-designated hotel. The hotel must be booked in advance of travel. For a full list of countries impacted by this mandate, click here

The isolation period may be extended for up to 10 days for travelers who test positive for COVID-19 during quarantine. The same measure applies to travelers from any other country who are not in possession of a negative PCR test. The daily rate for the quarantine is EUR 150.

Domestic restrictions
Some domestic restrictions remain in place as of June 15. Some non-essential businesses remain closed. Catering facilities are permitted to reopen their outdoor spaces for groups of up to six people. People may entertain visitors from one other household while up to 25 people may attend wedding receptions. Facemasks remain mandatory in enclosed public spaces.

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.