Flying to or from Ireland this Christmas? Here's what you should know.

Now that Ireland is classified as an “Orange” Country under the EU Travel Traffic Light System, what is the guidance and how can you travel home smoothly?

For many people, travel is associated with holidays as an optional luxury. However, for others, it is a fundamental need for essential work, healthcare treatments, family reasons or mental health. Spending time connecting with family and friends, who would otherwise be alone, is as innate a human need as oxygen, food and water and essential for wellbeing.

EU Traffic Light System

The EU recognises EU citizens have the right to free movement within the EU. To provide clarity and make our lives easier, Member States publish a map of Europe—updated weekly—in a variety of colours depending on the risk in each region. There will be no restrictions if you are travelling from a “green” region. When travelling from an “orange” or a “red” region, national governments may ask you to get tested or undergo quarantine. You can find more information on the current EU guidance and classification here.

COVID-19 Travel Testing Requirements

Guidance on COVID testing as part of your travel requirements is continuously evolving, meaning you should always double-check the advice of your country of destination. Countries, airlines or even your place of accommodation may ask for a recent COVID-19 PCR test result, which typically must be carried out and certified within 72 hours before departure. The certificate needs to show that you are currently not infected with the COVID-19 virus.

Restriction of Movement In Ireland

There are numerous situations where restriction of movement is exempted. Find out more on that here.

With effect from midnight the 29th of November, 2020, passengers arriving from an “orange”, “red” or “grey” region are to restrict their movements for 14 days. However, this period of restricted movement can end if you receive a negative/“not detected” result of a COVID-19 PCR test that has been taken a minimum of five days after you arrived in Ireland. You should wait for your negative test result to be returned before ending the period of restricted movement.

The Department of Foreign Affairs Guidance is continuously being updated so you can always double-check the information is correct at your time of reading here.

If you need to book a COVID-19 Gold Standard PCR Test for travel from or arrival to Ireland, you can Contact Us or Book an Appointment.