Ireland Imposes New Visa Rules on Eswatini, Nauru & Lesotho Travellers

As of March 10, passport holders from Eswatini, Nauru, and Lesotho must obtain a visa before traveling to Ireland. Additionally, a transit visa is now required for those passing through Ireland en route to another destination.

Nationals of these countries with travel plans booked before March 10, 2025, may be eligible for emergency visa accommodation if their trip is scheduled on or before March 31, 2025.

This applies to:

Medical emergencies involving family members (with official documentation).
Family events (births, weddings, funerals) with supporting evidence.
Employment with a valid Irish Employment Permit.
Business travel.

Facilitating Legitimate Travel

Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan emphasised that the visa requirement is a screening measure rather than a restriction, ensuring legitimate travel for visitors, workers, students, and family reunifications.

The Irish Department of Justice continues to review visa policies to balance immigration control with accessible travel. In 2024, Ireland issued a record 392,217 short-stay visas, with India, China, and Türkiye as the top applicant countries.

Do you need to renew your passport? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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IaM can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.

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