Ireland: Authorities tighten domestic restrictions as of Nov. 17 /update 49

Ireland tightens domestic COVID-19 restrictions as of Nov. 17; international entry restrictions unchanged.

Event

Authorities in Ireland are tightening domestic measures imposed to combat the spread of COVID-19 due to rising infection rates as of Nov. 17.

Domestic Restrictions
Household contacts of confirmed COVID-19 cases should restrict their movements until they have negative results from three antigen tests over the course of a five-day period. From Nov. 18, the requirement for certificates of vaccination and recovery will be expanded to include cinemas and theaters; it remains a requirement for indoor hospitality and events. Also from Nov. 18, bars and clubs must close at 00:01 and individuals should work from home unless necessary to attend the workplace. Facemasks remain mandatory in enclosed public spaces.

International Entry Restrictions
Travelers from all countries 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 arriving without any of these requirements may 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.