By Vincent Runyon
Documents Needed While Traveling in Ireland
In the 1990s, Ireland went from a European backwater to tourism powerhouse, and we're all luckier for it. The economic upswing changed Dublin into a cosmopolitan city that rivals the greatest in
Europe. People from all over the world come to Dublin for all kinds of reasons, whether it's to study English, work or just get in contact with their roots. Tourists flock from America to find a piece of their ancestral homes. Due to Dublin's status as a hub for European cheap flight kingpin Ryan Air, Europeans flock to the country as flights sometimes cost under a euro. No matter the reason a traveler comes to Emerald Isle, there are still a few documents that are required for everyone going around the country.
Requirements of the Irish and Europeans
The Irish, understandably, have it easy when traveling around their own country. They need only carry a piece of government identification such as a driver's license to travel around their own country. Due to Ireland's member status in the European Union, citizens from other member countries have similarly lax requirements for identification. They just have to keep their passport with them as a form of identification and that's about it. No visa will be needed, even for extended stays. However, it's still good to check in with the local consulate.
Documents for Countries That Don't Need Visas
Ireland has a lengthy list of countries that don't need visas. The European Union makes up a large part of the list. Beyond that, countries from North and South America, along with Oceania, tend not to be required to carry a visa to enter the country for ninety days or less. The main document required for these people will be the passport. However, there are a few other documents that are recommended to be carried as well. Proof of self-sufficiency may be asked for by government officials. A recent bank statement will be proof enough. Along with that, the government officials may ask for proof of health insurance as well.
Documents for Countries That Need Visas
There are countries that need visas (which are often in places such as Africa, Asia and the Middle East). First, these countries' citizens need to bring what everyone else will bring; their passport and ID. Then, they'll need to bring proof of self-sufficiency and insurance. Finally, they'll need to bring a visa. Luckily, many of the documents required to apply for the visa are already recommended for them to bring, such as a bank statement. The process for the visa application is started at the nearest Irish consulate or embassy in a traveler's home country.
About the Author:
Vincent Runyon is a writer working out of Portland, Ore. His work has been featured in "The Oregon Voice" and "Portland Monthly." Runyon received two bachelor's degrees from the University of Oregon. His greatest passions are traveling to new and different places and enjoying a good basketball game. Usually the two are mutually exclusive.
Photo Credits:
Robert Runyon
