Passport now mandatory for all trips to Britain
Effective from 25 February, most airlines – including Aer Lingus and Ryanair – will require that Irish citizens present a valid Irish passport or passport card for travel between Ireland and Britain.
This ends the acceptance of other forms of identification, such as driver's licences.
Separately, Britain has introduced mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) for non-Common Travel Area (CTA) visitors.
A new ETA or eVISA is mandatory for most visitors to Britain, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man, though Irish citizens are exempt.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised intending passengers to check passport validity and, where necessary, to apply online for an Irish passport, in advance of any travel.
It also advises checking with travel operators (airline/ferry) regarding their identification requirements before travelling.
Although Irish citizens do not need visas to enter the Britain, it is recommended to carry a passport to prove exemption from the new ETA requirement and for carrier checks.
Under British, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man entry requirements, travellers must present a valid Irish passport to the airline carrier, ferry operator, or border control to demonstrate that they are exempt from the ETA requirement when travelling from outside the CTA.
Emergency
Where travel is required owing to an emergency, Irish citizens, including Irish dual citizens, who are not in possession of a valid Irish passport can contact their nearest embassy or consulate, for advice.
Further information on the ETA is available from the British Government online.
Passengers traveling from Dublin to Donegal or on certain domestic British routes may still use other ID, but a passport is necessary for all other Aer Lingus routes from Ireland to Britain
The CTA remains in place, allowing for the free movement of Irish and British citizens, but enhanced digital, immigration, and security checks are being phased in.