Ferry passengers to require passports for UK-Ireland travel

Ferry passengers traveling between Ireland and the United Kingdom will be required to present a valid passport starting September 28. This new requirement applies to services operated by Irish Ferries and Stena Line.

Irish Ferries confirmed the rule change affects routes between Dublin and Holyhead, as well as Rosslare and Pembroke. Stena Line stated that passengers on Dublin to Holyhead and Rosslare to Fishguard crossings must show a passport or passport card, regardless of age or nationality. Other routes, such as those from Belfast, Liverpool, Cairnryan, or Heysham, are not affected by this specific change.

The operators cited UK Border Force requirements regarding the “accuracy and integrity of passenger data before boarding” as the reason for the update. While the Common Travel Area agreement means Irish and British citizens do not legally require passports to travel between the two nations, these ferry companies will no longer accept alternative photo IDs, such as driving licenses or national identity cards, for these specific routes.

Both companies are notifying customers with existing bookings to assist with the transition. Travelers are encouraged to ensure they possess valid documentation before arriving at the ports.