Ireland’s immigration authorities have introduced a temporary travel arrangement to help non-EEA residents whose IRP cards have expired — but who submitted renewal applications before expiry. Under this initiative, travellers may use their recently expired IRP card with a “Travel Confirmation Notice” between 8 December 2025 and 31 January 2026 to travel internationally and return to Ireland legally.
Who Qualifies
-
Non-EEA nationals legally resident in Ireland whose IRP card recently expired.
-
They must have filed an online renewal application before the expiry date of the old IRP card.
-
They must carry three items when travelling: the expired IRP card, a printed copy of the Travel Confirmation Notice, and proof of renewal application (such as an email acknowledgement with reference number).
How It Works
Because of delays in IRP-card processing and delivery, some residents may not receive the renewed card before making travel plans — especially over the holiday season. To avoid disrupting travel and return plans, ISD has authorised this temporary arrangement so that airlines and border officials honour a valid renewal application in lieu of a physical valid IRP card.
If travelling through a third country en route to Ireland, travellers should check the transit country’s requirements — the Travel Confirmation Notice only covers travel to and re-entry into Ireland.
What It Means for IRP Holders
-
Peace of mind: Residents who renew on time but haven’t received their new card can still travel and return safely.
-
Avoids disruption: Many non-EEA nationals, including students or workers, can visit families abroad or handle emergencies without breaking residency conditions.
-
Time-sensitive: The arrangement is valid only from 8 December 2025 to 31 January 2026. Travelling outside this window with an expired IRP will not be covered.
If you live in Ireland and your IRP renewal is pending, this temporary waiver means you don’t have to delay urgent travel.
Source: Travelobiz
At RoutePal, we help you check if you qualify, gather the right documents, and ensure your travel plans comply with current immigration rules — so you travel with confidence and complication-free.