The European Union (EU) has established the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) to screen travelers who are eligible to enter the Schengen Area without a visa. The Schengen Area is a zone comprising 27 European countries that have abolished passport and other types of border controls at their mutual borders. The countries in the Schengen Area include most EU countries, as well as non-EU countries like Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.

ETIAS is a new system that will be implemented at the start of 2025. It will require travelers from certain countries to obtain an ETIAS authorisation before they can enter the Schengen Area. The aim of ETIAS is to strengthen security in the Schengen Area by screening travelers for potential threats, such as terrorism and organized crime. It will also help to streamline the entry process for travelers who are eligible to enter the Schengen Area without a visa.

Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area and therefore is not subject to the ETIAS system. However, Ireland is a member of the EU and has freedom of movement for all EU citizens. This means that EU citizens are able to enter and travel freely within Ireland without the need for a visa.

Not all aspects of ETIAS have been determined yet, so it’s possible that things could change before the system is implemented in 2025. It’s also important to note that this information pertains only to the Republic of Ireland, not Northern Ireland, which is a part of the UK. The UK is also not part of the Schengen Area and is not subject to the ETIAS system.

Is Ireland a member of the Schengen or the European Union?

The Republic of Ireland, also known as Eire, is a member of the European Union (EU) but is not part of the Schengen Area. Ireland is one of a few countries that are members of the EU but have not joined the Schengen Area. This can be confusing for many people, including Europeans. 

The Schengen Agreement establishes uniform rules for the control of external borders among the countries in the Schengen Area. Once a traveler has been admitted into one Schengen country, they are generally able to travel freely to any of the other Schengen countries as long as they do not exceed the maximum stay of 90 days within the entire Schengen Area. 

This means that a traveler can enter one Schengen country and then travel to any of the other countries in the Schengen Area without the need to obtain additional visas or go through border controls. 

Some countries have chosen not to join the Schengen Area or have not yet joined for various reasons. These countries may prefer to have more control over the immigration status of non-EU citizens within their own borders, rather than being subject to the same rules as the rest of Europe.

Countries that are not part of the Schengen Area are not required to join, and they are able to maintain their own separate immigration policies. However, as members of the EU, these countries are still subject to the freedom of movement rules.

Which are Ireland’s most popular attractions?

There are many reasons why people visit the Republic of Ireland. Located in western Europe, Ireland is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, including its stunning coastline and rolling countryside.

One reason that Ireland is a popular destination is that it is a very attractive place to visit for travelers from around the world. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the popular activities and attractions in Ireland include:

  • Kissing the Blarney Stone: The Blarney Stone is a block of limestone located at the Blarney Castle in County Cork. It is said that if you kiss the stone, you will be endowed with the gift of eloquence.
  • Supping Murphy’s or Guinness in a traditional Irish pub: Ireland is known for its strong tradition of pub culture, and visitors can experience this by sipping on a pint of Murphy’s or Guinness in a traditional Irish pub.
  • Sightseeing around Ireland’s beautiful countryside and coastline: Ireland is known for its stunning landscape, with rolling hills, green fields, and a rugged coastline. Visitors can take in the beauty of the country by sightseeing around the countryside and coastline.
  • The Cliffs of Moher: Located in County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are a series of rugged cliffs that rise up to 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs offer stunning views of the coastline and are a popular tourist attraction in Ireland.
  • County Donegal: Located in the northwest of the country, County Donegal is known for its indented coastline and quaint villages. It is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the natural beauty and traditional culture of Ireland.
  • Kilkenny: Located just outside of Dublin, Kilkenny is an ancient city that is home to a number of historical sites and landmarks. It is a popular destination for history buffs and those interested in exploring Ireland’s past.

For many people, particularly those with roots in Ireland, visiting the country is a chance to trace their ancestry and learn more about their heritage. Ireland is also a popular destination for travelers from North America, Australia, and New Zealand, who are drawn to the country’s unique culture and history.

Ireland is also a country with a rich and varied history, and despite being a popular tourist destination, Ireland is relatively uncrowded, which makes it an ideal place for a leisurely journey around the country. 

Is it necessary to have ETIAS when visiting Ireland?

If you possess a passport from an EU country, you will not need an ETIAS authorisation to enter the Schengen Area. However, it is currently uncertain whether non-EU passport holders will need an ETIAS authorisation to enter the Schengen Area. It is possible that this may change in the future, as Ireland may decide to join the Schengen Area or may decide to use the ETIAS system after evaluating the potential benefits of screening visitors in advance.

If you have previously visited Ireland, you may recall what steps you needed to take before arriving in the country. Depending on your nationality, you may have needed to obtain an Irish visa in advance. If this is the case, it is unlikely that this requirement will change. However, if you are currently able to simply arrive in Ireland and have your passport stamped, it is possible that this will continue in the future. 

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the rules as you get closer to 2025, and you can also take the ETIAS assessment to determine whether you will likely need a Schengen visa or an ETIAS authorisation to enter the Schengen Area.