Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney has issued three key pieces of advice to all Irish people planning on travelling abroad this summer.
Many people will be heading abroad for the first time in two years this summer to enjoy a well-deserved break with their families.
However, the Minister has urged people to be mindful that although Ireland has eased most of its Covid rules, some restrictions remain in place elsewhere.
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In a statement, Minister Coveney said: “For many, this summer will be the first time travelling abroad since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. My Department and I want to ensure that Irish citizens are equipped with all the necessary information before they travel to ensure a stress-free and well-deserved holiday.
“I would advise everyone going abroad this summer to ‘Know Before you Go’ - check our travel advice for your destination country for relevant information about COVID restrictions and entry requirements, safety & security, visas, and more.”
Those travelling this summer should be mindful of the required health documentation needed to gain entry into their chosen destination and ensure that their EU Digital Covid Certificates are valid if required for the country they wish to visit.
Minister Coveney added: “Along with your EU-DCC, be sure to check that your passport is still valid before you book a holiday. This is particularly important for travel to countries with a minimum validity requirement. The fastest way to renew your Irish passport is through the Passport Online service.
“I would also urge all those travelling to purchase comprehensive travel insurance and that citizens travelling to continental Europe carry a European Health Insurance Card.”
Although most trips abroad are trouble-free, a network of Irish Embassies and Consulates worldwide is available to assist in case something goes wrong while you are abroad.
The network of diplomatic and consular missions across the world provides emergency assistance to Irish citizens.
The Minister said: “All those travelling should be aware of your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate while abroad, and anyone travelling further afield should register their details with us via our online Citizens’ Registration service, so that we can contact you should an unforeseen crisis arise while you are travelling”.
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