The Minister for Justice has signed an order introducing higher fines for airlines and ferry companies whose passengers arrive in Ireland without the correct documentation.

The Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024 increases the fines on carriers to a maximum of €5,000, from the previous maximum of €3,000.

Minister Helen McEntee has now signed two orders to give effect to these higher fines from 12 August 2024.

Further measures

A review earlier this year recommended the increase, which the Department of Justice says takes account of inflation and brings Ireland more into line with penalties imposed on carriers across Europe.

The Immigration Act 2003 states that carriers are liable for ensuring that passengers have the necessary valid passports, ID cards, and visas to travel to Ireland.

“My department is working closely with them to support them in these obligations – including through the provision of training. However, where the rules are not followed, increased fines will now apply,” Minister McEntee stated.

The department added that the minister was looking at further measures – including the feasibility of a dynamic-fines model that recognised carriers that strongly enforced documentation requirements.