Ireland Allows Expired Residence Permit Holders to Travel Until Aug 31 2026

Ireland has introduced a temporary travel concession for eligible non‑EEA residents whose Irish Residence Permit (IRP) cards have expired. The measure applies to those who submitted a renewal application before the existing card expired and allows travel abroad and re‑entry using the expired card together with a printed Travel Confirmation Notice and proof of the renewal filing. The concession runs from July 13 2026 until August 31 2026, after which normal immigration rules resume.

The policy responds to a backlog at the Immigration Services Registration Office, where renewal processing times now range from seven to 17 weeks. It is intended to ease travel for thousands of foreign workers, students and families who need to leave Ireland for work, family or holidays while awaiting their new permits. Travelers must carry the expired IRP card, the travel notice, proof of renewal and, where required, a valid employment permit, and are advised to check airline acceptance before departure.