DESTINATIONS| Ireland has opened their borders. Here is what you need to know
Ireland and Americans
Ireland is open and requires all arrivals from outside Ireland including citizens and residents to isolate themselves for two full weeks. You’ll also need to fill out a “Passenger Locator Form” saying where you will be quarantining. There is a fine of up to $2,860 or six months in jail for refusing to fill out the form or falsifying records.
Ireland is a member of the European Union, but unlike other countries in the EU, it did not ban non-essential travel, not even from the U.S. The Irish government does advise against nonessential travel to the country, but it’s not forbidden. This policy will apparently be revisited on July 20 so make sure you are doing your research if you plan a trip.
Meantime, Ireland is dealing with visitors who are violating the country’s 14-day self-quarantine rule. The New York Times wrote a whole article on this problem.
What you need to visit Ireland
Pre-departure
Fill out a form prior to arrival with quarantine information
Wear face masks when traveling to the departure airport
Wear face masks and practice physical distancing at the departure airport
On the plane
Wear a face mask while on the plane
Practice social distancing to the extent possible
Upon arrival
Present a form verifying where you will quarantine
Potentially face a health screening
Quarantine for two weeks
More information can be found here including frequently asked questions.
What is open in Ireland?
After a period of closure, some restaurants and hotels began reopening on June 29. Social distancing rules mean the numbers allowed in businesses will be severely limited. Social establishments such as clubs, pubs and bars without outdoor areas must remain close until August. If they are serving food, they can be open but are under strict guidelines.
Face masks are required whether transporting on public transportation and inside businesses & people are to practice physical distancing.
Museums, castles, churches and other cultural centers are also resuming activities. The popular Dublin Castle reopened on June 29.
Ireland reopens Phase 4 on August 10th.