Planning a UK and Ireland Trip? New Passport Rules Start September 2026

If you’re planning to visit both the United Kingdom and Ireland, especially if your itinerary includes travelling between the two countries by ferry, there’s an important change you should know before you go.

Starting 28 September 2026, passengers travelling on certain ferry services between the Republic of Ireland and Britain are required to present a valid passport at check-in.

Previously, some passengers could travel using other forms of identification. With the new requirements now in effect, travellers should make sure their passport and other required travel documents are ready before heading to the port.

What Changed on 28 September 2026?

Irish Ferries now requires passengers travelling between the Republic of Ireland and Britain on affected routes to present a valid passport or, where applicable, an Irish passport card before boarding.

Affected Irish Ferries routes include:

• Dublin ↔ Holyhead
• Rosslare ↔ Pembroke

Stena Line also requires a valid passport for passengers travelling on affected routes between Britain and the Republic of Ireland, including:

• Dublin ↔ Holyhead
• Rosslare ↔ Fishguard

The requirement also applies to children and infants. Travellers using these services should not assume that a driving licence or another form of photo identification will be accepted instead of a passport.

Does This Mean the Common Travel Area Has Ended?

No. The Common Travel Area (CTA) arrangements between the UK and Ireland continue to exist.

British and Irish citizens continue to benefit from CTA travel rights. However, transport companies can set identification requirements for passengers using their services.

This means that even where immigration rules may not require a British or Irish citizen to present a passport to enter Ireland, the ferry operator may still require one before allowing the passenger to board.

What About UAE Residents and Other International Travellers?

If you’re travelling from the UAE and planning a combined UK and Ireland holiday, remember that carrying a passport is only one part of your travel requirements.

Your visa or travel-authorisation requirements can depend on your nationality, passport, immigration status, destination and purpose of travel.

A UK visa does not automatically give every traveller permission to enter Ireland, and an Irish visa does not automatically give permission to enter the UK.

Some travellers who do not require a UK visa may instead need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

Before finalising your trip, always check the entry requirements that apply specifically to your passport and travel plans.

Travelling With Children?

Don’t forget to check the travel-document requirements for your children.

Under the new requirements on affected ferry routes, children and infants also need the appropriate passport documentation.

This is especially important for family holidays where parents may previously have assumed that alternative identification or a birth certificate would be enough for the ferry journey.

Before Your UK and Ireland Trip

If your itinerary includes both countries, check your travel documents before booking your ferry.

• Check your passport validity.
• Make sure your booking details match your passport.
• Check whether you require a UK visa or UK ETA.
• Check whether you require an Irish visa.
• Confirm the latest requirements directly with your ferry operator.

Planning Your UK or Ireland Trip?

A little preparation can save you from problems at check-in.

If you’re unsure about the visa application process for your upcoming UK or Ireland trip, Spread Wings Tourism can assist you with your visa application and help you prepare for your journey.

Disclaimer: Travel, visa and immigration requirements may change without prior notice. Final entry decisions remain with the relevant immigration authorities. Travellers should always verify the latest requirements with the appropriate government authority and transport provider before travelling.