Exercise normal precautions in Ireland.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Ireland:
Valid for the duration of your stay in Ireland
One page
No
None
10,000 Euros or equivalent
10,000 Euros or equivalent
U.S. Embassy Dublin
42 Elgin Rd
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Ireland
Telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777
Emergency after-hours telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777
Fax: +(353) (1) 668-8056
Email: ACSDublin@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Ireland for information on U.S.-Ireland relations.
Visit the Embassy of Ireland’s website for the most current visa information.
We cannot intervene on your behalf when applying for a visa or residency permit, nor can we assist if you are denied entry into Ireland.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Ireland.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and U.S. customs regulations on our websites.
Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. European governments are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks; however, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.
Crime: Most U.S. citizens visit Ireland without incident. Alhough Ireland has a relatively low rate of violent crime, you should always follow sound personal security practices and maintain awareness of your surroundings when traveling.
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime:
Report crimes to the local police at 999 or 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(353) (1) 668-8777.
Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our webpage on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Special Circumstances: Most Irish banks will not accept U.S. $100 bills. Many Irish financial institutions no longer accept or cash traveler’s checks. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Ireland. ATMs are widely available, but some, particularly in rural areas, may not accept debit cards from U.S. banks.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report.
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Ireland.
See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance. While in Ireland, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from that in the United States.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers.
Hospitals in Ireland may not accept U.S. health insurance as payment. Patients are expected to pay all costs up-front at the time of treatment and apply for reimbursement from their own insurance provider later.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most medical providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: While in Ireland, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States.
Traffic Laws: Police periodically set up road blocks to check for drunk drivers. Penalties for driving under the influence can be severe.
Public Transportation: Taxi rates vary with time of day and location. Ask your hotel for the number of a call-dispatched taxi service if you plan to be out during less busy times.
See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Irish Tourism Board and the website for the National Roads Authority of Ireland, which is responsible for road safety.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Ireland’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Ireland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Ireland should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website (https:homeport.uscg.mil), and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal select “broadcast warnings”.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
U.S. Embassy Dublin
42 Elgin Rd
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Ireland
Telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777
Emergency after-hours telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777
Fax: +(353) (1) 668-8056
Email: ACSDublin@state.gov
List of Attorneys - U.S. Embassy Dublin
Ireland is a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. Complete information on the operation of the Convention, including an interactive online request form are available on the Hague Conference website. Requests should be completed in duplicate and submitted with two sets of the documents to be served, and translations, directly to the Irish Central Authority for the Hague Service Convention. The languages used by the Irish Central Authority's staff are Irish (Gaelic) and English. The person in the United States executing the request form should be either an attorney or clerk of court. The applicant should include the titles attorney at law or clerk of court on the identity and address of applicant and signature/stamp fields. In its Declarations and Reservations, Ireland objected to the methods of service in Article 10 b and c of the Convention. International service of process by registered mail is allowed in Ireland, but this method will only record delivery to an address and not to a person. For additional information see the Hague Conference Service Convention web page and the Hague Conference Practical Handbook on the Operation of the Hague Service Convention. See also Ireland’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Service Convention.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Service of Documents from Ireland in the United States: See information about service in the United States on the U.S. Central Authority for the Service Convention page of the Hague Conference on Private International Law Service Convention site.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
Ireland is not a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters. Voluntary depositions of willing witnesses in civil and commercial matters is permitted regardless of the nationality of the witness. If counsel intends to utilize videotape equipment for the purpose of recording the deposition, please note that special customs clearances must be obtained from Irish Customs and Excise, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2, Tel: (353)(1) 679-2777. Without clearances, the equipment may be confiscated. American equipment may need special adapters to function on Irish electrical currents. Oral depositions or depositions on written questions may be taken by U.S. consular officers or by private attorneys at the U.S. Embassy or at another location such as a hotel or office, either on notice or pursuant to a commission. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. embassy directly.
None.
Ireland is a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. Ireland’s competent authority for the Hague Apostille Convention will authenticate Irish public documents with Apostilles. For information about authenticating U.S. public documents for use in Ireland, see the list of U.S. Competent Authorities. To obtain an Apostille for a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America, contact the U.S. Department of State, Passport Services, Vital Records Office.
U.S. Embassy Dublin
42 Elgin Rd
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Ireland
Telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777
Emergency after-hours telephone: +(353) (1) 668-8777
Fax: +(353) (1) 668-8056
Email: ACSDublin@state.gov
Ireland and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since October 1, 1991.
For information concerning travel to Ireland, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Ireland.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Ireland. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
United States Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children’s Issues
2201 C Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20520
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-485-6221
Website
The Irish Central Authority (ICA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Department of Justice and Equality. The ICA has an administrative role in processing Hague Abduction Convention applications. The ICA will arrange for an attorney to represent each applicant in Hague return proceedings and will review and forward completed applications to the assigned solicitor. The ICA can be reached at:
Department of Justice and Equality
Bishop’s Square
Redmond’s Hill
Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel: +353 (1) 4790 200
Fax: +353 (1) 4790 201
E-mail
Internet
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Ireland, the USCA encourages parents to review the eligibility criteria and instructions for completing the Hague application form located at the Department of State website and contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the ICA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Irish central authorities. The central authority in Ireland assigns a solicitor (attorney) to represent parents making an application for return or access under the Hague Abduction Convention. For applications for return, the ICA provides pro bono (no fee) legal assistance. For applications for access, applicant parents are responsible for legal fees if they do not qualify for legal aid. Additional costs may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in, Ireland. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Ireland. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
It is unnecessary for a left-behind parent to retain a private lawyer in Ireland. The Central Authority will arrange for a solicitor (attorney) to represent you in your Hague return application. You will not be charged for such representation. A left-behind parent may retain his/her own solicitor and file a Hague return application directly with the High Court. In that case, the left-behind parent is responsible for all legal costs.
The U.S. Embassy in Dublin, Ireland posts a list of attorneys, including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included in this list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
The ICA encourages mediation for all Hague Abduction Convention applications, and both parties are given the opportunity to come to a mutual agreement before the application goes to court. In general, the parties’ solicitors are responsible for facilitating mediation. The ICA does not play an active role in this process.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Adoption Notice
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's Issues
November 1, 2010
Ireland Ratifies the Hague Adoption Convention
Ireland ratified the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention) and established the new Adoption Authority of Ireland with the enactment of the Adoption Act 2010. The Hague Adoption Convention entered into force for Ireland on November 1, 2010.
Prospective adoptive parents residing in Ireland who wish to adopt from another Hague Convention country, including the United States, after November 1, 2010 should contact the Adoption Authority of Ireland to learn about the Hague Convention requirements.
Adoption Authority of Ireland
Telephone from Ireland: 01-2309300
Telephone from U.S.: 011-353-1-2309300
Email: info@aai.gov.ie
Website: www.aai.gov.ie
Ireland is considered to be a receiving country, rather than a country of origin of children adopted through intercountry adoption. Only one Irish orphan has been adopted by a U.S. citizen during the past five years.
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| Q-2 6 | None | Multiple | 36 Months |
| Q-3 6 | None | Multiple | 36 Months |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Month |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Month |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Month |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Month |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Month |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Please check back for update.
Available
Fees: €20 (plus postage). There is a fee for additional copies at the time of issuance.
Document Name: Birth certificate
Issuing Authority: Issued by either the local registry office or the Registrar General in Dublin.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Civil or “Long-form” Irish Birth Certificates
From 2004 all Civil Certificates (Domestic Adoption, Birth, Death, Marriage, Stillbirth, and Civil Partnership) are issued on A4 sized certificates. The U.S. Embassy/Consulate General can accept a civil A4 copy issued by the Irish Authorities in lieu of long form certificates.
Security features include watermarks and UV images and text.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria.
Procedure for Obtaining: Available online through the Health Service Executive (HSE) here.
Certified Copies: Certified Copies are not available.
Alternate Documents: The long-form certificates issued prior to 2004 are serially numbered in the upper left-hand corner, and consist of eleven numbered boxes arrayed horizontally on the page. At the bottom of the certificate is the warning that "TO ALTER THIS DOCUMENT OR TO UTTER IT SO ALTERED IS A SERIOUS OFFENSE”. These certificates are generally available for all births from January 1, 1894.
Exceptions: None
Comments: In 2004 the Irish Department of Health - the Health Service Executive (HSE) - introduced a computerized system for recording the registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages in the Republic of Ireland. Any record created prior to 2004 has also been transferred to this new electronic State database by scanning the original entries in the Registers for Births, Deaths and Marriages on to the new computerized system. Certificates are now issued based on these records where a scan of the original Register Entry is printed on to Certificate paper.
Any birth registered before the 1 OCTOBER 1997 does not provide the following details:
These details are recorded on any birth registered on or after the 1 October 1997.
Available
Fees: €20 (plus postage).
Document Name: Death Certificate
Issuing Authority: Registrar General in Dublin
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: From 2004 all Civil Certificates (Domestic, Adoption, Birth, Death, Marriage, and Civil Partnership) from Irish authorities are issued on A4 sized certificates. Security features include watermarks and UV images and text.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria.
Procedure for Obtaining: Available online through the Health Service Executive (HSE) here.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are not available.
Alternate Documents: The long-form certificates issued prior to 2004 are serially numbered in the upper left-hand corner, and consist of eleven numbered boxes arrayed horizontally on the page. At the bottom of the certificate is the warning that "TO ALTER THIS DOCUMENT OR TO UTTER IT SO ALTERED IS A SERIOUS OFFENSE. These certificates are generally available for all births from January 1, 1894.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: €20 plus postage
Document Name: Marriage Certificate
Issuing Authority: Registrar General in Dublin
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: From 2004 all Civil Certificates (Domestic, Adoption, Birth, Death, Marriage, and Civil Partnership) from Irish authorities are issued on A4 sized certificates. Security features include watermarks and UV images and text.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria.
Procedure for Obtaining: Available online through the Health Service Executive (HSE) here.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are not available.
Alternate Documents: The long-form certificates issued prior to 2004 are serially numbered in the upper left-hand corner, and consist of eleven numbered boxes arrayed horizontally on the page. At the bottom of the certificate is the warning that "TO ALTER THIS DOCUMENT OR TO UTTER IT SO ALTERED IS A SERIOUS OFFENSE.” These certificates are generally available for all births from January 1, 1894.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Varies
Document Name: Divorce Certificate
Issuing Authority: Circuit Court Office
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: There is no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Divorce records may be obtained by contacting the court clerk of the court where the case was heard or from your solicitor.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: €20 plus postage
Document Name: Adoption Certificate
Issuing Authority: Registrar General in Dublin
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: From 2004 all Civil Certificates (Domestic, Adoption, Birth, Death, Marriage, and Civil Partnership) from Irish authorities are issued on A4 sized certificates. Security features include watermarks and UV images and text.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria.
Procedure for Obtaining: Available online through the Health Service Executive (HSE) here.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are not available.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Unavailable
Available
Fees: The certificate is issued free of charge and is issued for the following purposes:-
Document Name: Police Certificate
Issuing Authority: An Garda Síochána
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The Police Certificate shows the following “This certificate is issued solely for the information of the U.S.A. Consular authorities”. The Police Certificate shows the individual’s full name, date and place of birth and all addresses while residing in Ireland. Derogatory information is usually listed on the back of the form. To be valid, a district stamp (usually in the lower left hand corner), identifies the issuing Garda Station, signed by the District Superintendent, or his or her deputy.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Superintendent in the District where the applicant resides, or formerly resided, in the Republic of Ireland.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants for Police Certificates for the above mentioned purposes should make application in writing to the Superintendent in charge of the district wherein they reside, or formerly resided, in the Republic of Ireland. Information on how to request a Police Certificate, the district directory and the name of the Superintendent, is available on garda.ie
Certified Copies: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: An applicant is required to present their passport when applying for the certificate.
Note: A statement of penal servitude may be obtained directly from the prison in question, but the police certificate usually provides details of conviction and penalty imposed.
Available
Fees: Varies, available on courts.ie
Document Name: Irish Court Record
Issuing Authority: Courts Service Ireland
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Department of Justice
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Court records may be obtained by contacting the court clerk of the court where the case was heard. Contact information is available on the courts.ie website for all courts listed in the Republic of Ireland.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: An applicant is required to present their passport when applying for the certificate.
Available
Fees: There are no fees
Document Name: “Record of Service in the Defence Forces”
Issuing Authority: Óglaigh na hÉireann, Defense Forces Ireland.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The form is printed on standard, white Irish paper (8-1/4" X 11-3/4") and signed by the Officer in Charge of the Enlisted Personnel Section.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Officer in Charge of the Enlisted Personnel Section
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants with military service in the permanent or reserve forces (including the Forsa Cosanta Aitiuil or Slua Muiri) can obtain the form by contacting the Officer in Charge, Enlisted Personnel Section, Defence Forces Headquarters, Infirmary Road, Dublin 8. The applicant must provide the birth date, enlistment date, Army service number, and the name of the unit in which he served.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: A special "Record of Service in the Defence Forces" has been devised by Irish authorities to meet U.S. visa requirements.
Types Available: Electronic passports (ePassports), Passports for Children and Emergency Passports
Fees:
€80 Standard 10 year passport
€110 Large 10 Year passport (aged 18 and over)
€30 5 year passport (aged under 18 years)
Document Name:
Issuing Government Authority: Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Dublin, Ireland
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: In October 2006 the Irish Passport Office began issuing electronic passports (ePassports). The passport has numerous security features and is valid for a maximum of ten years. Machine-readable passports issued prior to October 2006, issued for a maximum of ten years are still valid.
Only Irish citizens are entitled to hold Irish passports, which are issued for a maximum of 10 years validity. Passports can be issued with shorter validity (3 years) to children under three years and (5 years) to children from 3-17 years. Passports come in a 34-page standard size and a 66-page large size.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Irish Passport Office, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Registration Criteria: In all applications for a new passport, as well as the completed application form, you must submit:
Procedure for Obtaining: If you are applying from within the State, you should use Passport Express. Hand in your application at your nearest Service Plus Post Office. If you have immediate travel plans or a necessity to travel for reasons of family emergency, contact a passport office. If applying from outside the State, send the completed application to the nearest Irish embassy or consulate, or hand it in at the nearest participating Northern Ireland Post Office if using Passport Express
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.
Exceptions: None
Comments: Only Irish citizens are entitled to hold Irish passports, which are issued for a maximum of 10 years validity. Passports can be issued with shorter validity (3 years) to children under three years and (5 years) to children from 3-17 years. Passports come in a 34-page standard size and a 66-page large size.
Other Documents Available:
Emergency Travel Certificate: In certain circumstances, an Emergency Travel Certificate rather than a passport will be issued by the Irish embassy or Consulate abroad to an Irish citizen who has lost his/her passport. Emergency Travel Certificates are only valid for one journey. An Emergency Travel Certificate is not a passport; it is a document (about A5 size) that carries a photograph of the applicant and a stamp from the embassy verifying identity. Emergency Travel Certificates are generally issued very quickly (depending on the circumstances) and there is a small fee for this service.
Not applicable.
Post Title: U.S. Embassy in Dublin, Ireland
Address:
42 Elgin Road
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4, Ireland
Phone Number: (353) (1) 668-8777 - after hours (353) (1) 668-9612
Fax: (353) (1) 668-8056
Visa Services: All visa categories for the Republic of Ireland.
Comments / Additional Information: None
All visa categories for the Republic of Ireland.
Washington, DC (202) 462-3939 (202) 232-5993
Atlanta, GA (404) 554-4980 (678) 235-2201
Boston, MA (617) 267-9330 (617) 267-6375
Chicago, IL (312) 337-2700 (312) 836-1267
New York, NY (212) 319-2555 (212) 980-9475
San Francisco, CA (415) 392-4214 (415) 392-0885
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
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