In October 2026, Frontex (the EU border agency) and European travel-trade bodies warned of more than 150 unofficial websites offering ETIAS, some using EU symbols. Because no application is processed before launch, any fee paid today buys nothing. When ETIAS opens, apply only on the official EU website or app.
Why Ireland is different
Ireland opted out of the Schengen rules and the ETIAS Regulation does not apply there. It enforces its own visa and border policy. Days spent in Ireland don't count towards your 90 Schengen days, and Schengen days don't count in Ireland.
At the Irish border
An immigration officer decides how long you may stay, up to a maximum of 3 months. Carry your passport, your visa if you need one, and documents that explain your trip: itinerary, proof of funds, accommodation, health insurance.
Ireland's visa list is its own
Ireland does not use the Schengen visa list. Check your nationality with the Irish Immigration Service before you travel, even if you are visa-free for Schengen.
Going on to Northern Ireland or Great Britain
An Irish visit visa does not let you into the UK, including Northern Ireland. Visa-free visitors such as Americans or Canadians need a UK ETA (£20) to enter the UK.
Irish citizens
Irish passport holders are EU citizens: no ETIAS, no EES and no 90-day limit anywhere in Europe.
FAQ
Do I need ETIAS for Ireland?
No. ETIAS covers 30 European countries, and Ireland is not one of them.
Does time in Ireland count towards my 90 days in Schengen?
No. Ireland is outside the Schengen area and counts your stay separately.
Do Irish passport holders need ETIAS?
No. Irish citizens are EU citizens and are outside ETIAS and EES everywhere in Europe.
Can I go from Dublin to Belfast without a UK ETA?
Not if you are a visa-free visitor who needs an ETA for the UK: Northern Ireland is part of the UK.
Checked: 21 October 2026, against home-affairs.ec.europa.eu, irishimmigration.ie, irishimmigration.ie, gov.uk, home-affairs.ec.europa.eu. Rules can change: official sites prevail. No ETIAS start date has been announced; we will not guess one.