Ireland has extended its Short-Stay Visa Waiver Programme until December 31, 2026, allowing eligible Indian nationals to visit the country without obtaining a separate Irish visa, provided they hold and have used a qualifying UK short-stay visa. The programme, which was earlier scheduled to end on October 31, covers nationals from countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and South America.
To qualify, travellers must first enter the UK using an eligible short-stay visa before travelling to Ireland. Those who only transit through a UK airport without clearing immigration are not eligible. The programme covers UK short-stay visitor visas and visit or business entry clearances valid for up to 180 days. Transit visas and visas issued for marriage or civil partnerships are excluded.
Eligible travellers can travel directly from the UK to Ireland or visit another country after entering the UK before proceeding to Ireland, provided their UK immigration permission remains valid. The scheme covers nationals of India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, China, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, among others.
Other eligible countries include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Colombia and Peru. The maximum permitted stay in Ireland is 90 days or the remaining validity of the traveller’s UK permission, whichever is shorter. Entry is not guaranteed, as the final decision rests with an Irish immigration officer at the port of entry.
The waiver does not apply to individuals residing in the UK on long-term immigration permission exceeding 180 days. Such travellers must apply for an Irish visa, although the visa application fee is waived under the programme.
A valid UK visa or electronic travel authorisation alone does not guarantee entry into Ireland. Travellers must meet all the programme’s eligibility requirements and obtain permission from Irish immigration authorities upon arrival.