The Minister of Justice Helen McEntee has announced that effective 10th of July 2024, the nationals of Botswana and South Africa are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Ireland. A transit visa will also be required if attending to transit through Ireland enroute to another destination.
According to the Minister, this decision will bring Ireland into closer alignment with the Schengen Area in respect of both of these countries and into line with the UK in respect of South Africa.
Transitional arrangements have been put in place for nationals of Botswana and South Africa who have existing arrangements (made before 10 July 2024) to travel to the State before 9th of August 2024, and may travel to Ireland provided they have the following documentation:
- A valid passport
- Documentary proof from their carrier (and not a Travel Agent) showing the date of purchase of their ticket(s), their name as the passenger, the flight(s) number, and date of travel.
The above documentation will need to be produced when requested to do so by the carrier or Immigration Officer.
Please note: Persons who have a valid Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card do not separately need to have an Irish visa. The Department of Justice prepared a frequently asked question (FAQ) document for Botswana and South Africa nationals, here.
For further information and guidance, please see the full notice here.
For more information and assistance, please contact caseworkers.
