- The best travel insurance for Ireland
- Is it currently safe to travel to Ireland?
- Is travel insurance required for a visa to Ireland?
- Why take out travel insurance for Ireland?
- What coverage is included in travel insurance for Ireland?
- The cost of travel insurance for Ireland
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Ireland?
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Ireland?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Ireland: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Ireland covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for US citizens but is vital for covering high medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: A hospital stay in Ireland can cost non-residents over $1,000 per night without insurance.
4. Price: A basic one-week travel insurance plan for Ireland typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Your US health plan, including Medicare, likely offers no coverage for medical care in Ireland.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Ireland.
The best travel insurance for Ireland
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Excellent for travelers to Ireland. - high reimbursement ceiling - evacuation support - strong contractual clarity |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Recommended for short and extended stays. - 24/7 support - medical incidents covered - no deductible for emergencies |
| Tourist Card | $0.5M | Convenient for tourism in Ireland. - strong basic coverage - emergency assistance - competitive for trips under 60 days |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.8M | Good balance for leisure and business. - wide medical cover - hospital expenses included - repatriation supported |
| Globe Partner | $0.3M | Practical for a variety of visits. - essential health guarantees - civil liability - reimbursement process is straightforward |
| Globe Traveller | $0.5M | Best for limited-risk and short stays. - essential care - quick claim settlement - capped ceiling |
- high reimbursement ceiling
- evacuation support
- strong contractual clarity
- 24/7 support
- medical incidents covered
- no deductible for emergencies
- strong basic coverage
- emergency assistance
- competitive for trips under 60 days
- wide medical cover
- hospital expenses included
- repatriation supported
- essential health guarantees
- civil liability
- reimbursement process is straightforward
- essential care
- quick claim settlement
- capped ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Ireland?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers that Ireland is considered safe and standard precautions are sufficient. There are no significant travel restrictions for US citizens.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: Theft and petty crime, especially pickpocketing, remain concerns in central Dublin and crowded tourist areas. Rental cars are regularly targeted by thieves in parking lots.
- Health risks: Ireland’s health system is modern, but non-residents may be required to pay for care. Tap water is safe to drink and there are no vaccination requirements.
- Entry procedures: Border officials may ask for proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket on arrival. U.S. citizens have, on occasion, been refused entry due to unclear travel plans.
- Cultural norms: Public behavior is generally informal, but respecting queues and local customs is appreciated. Tipping in restaurants is not required but is customary for good service.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Ireland.
Is travel insurance required for a visa to Ireland?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for travelers from the United States to obtain a visa or enter Ireland for tourism or business stays up to 90 days.
It is still strongly recommended to have travel insurance because, while Ireland offers good quality healthcare, visitors may be required to pay the full cost of services in case of illness or accident, as US health insurance is not valid in Ireland.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Ireland because healthcare services can be expensive for tourists and unexpected situations may arise during the trip.
Why take out travel insurance for Ireland?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Ireland.
Healthcare costs in Ireland can be high for foreign visitors, as access to free or subsidized public care is limited for those without residency. Private hospitals like Mater Private Hospital or Blackrock Clinic in Dublin are often used, and treatment there can be expensive for travelers, with even minor care leading to significant bills.
Travel insurance covers essential protections such as medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and repatriation costs to the United States in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Ireland.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Mater Private Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 3,200 EUR (approx. 3,500 USD) | Up to 100% of costs, depending on plan |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 2,100 EUR (approx. 2,300 USD) | Up to 100% of costs, depending on plan |
| I need to be repatriated | 15,000 EUR (approx. 16,500 USD) | Up to 100% of costs, depending on plan |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 7,800 EUR (approx. 8,600 USD) | Up to 100% of costs, depending on plan |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What coverage is included in travel insurance for Ireland?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers sudden illness or accident requiring treatment, hospital stay, or medicine. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $150,000 per person due to potential high health costs and repatriation. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Pays for evacuation to the US or nearest facility if care cannot be provided in Ireland. A limit of at least $250,000 is recommended. |
| 💼 Trip cancellation | Provides reimbursement if you must cancel your trip due to illness, emergencies, or unforeseen events. Choose a reimbursement limit matching your total prepaid travel costs. |
| ✈️ Travel interruption | Covers the cost of returning home early if a serious incident occurs during your trip. Match coverage to the total value of your trip. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss/theft | Compensates for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal items. A limit of at least $1,500 is recommended for Ireland. |
| 🚗 Rental car coverage | Pays excess fees if your rental car is damaged or stolen. This is optional, but recommended for those planning to drive, with a recommended limit of $35,000. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Reimburses additional costs for delayed flights or accommodations due to covered reasons. A minimum limit of $500–$1,000 is suggested. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Covers costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property while in Ireland. A minimum limit of $100,000 is recommended. |
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $150,000 per person due to potential high health costs and repatriation.
A limit of at least $250,000 is recommended.
Choose a reimbursement limit matching your total prepaid travel costs.
Match coverage to the total value of your trip.
A limit of at least $1,500 is recommended for Ireland.
This is optional, but recommended for those planning to drive, with a recommended limit of $35,000.
A minimum limit of $500–$1,000 is suggested.
A minimum limit of $100,000 is recommended.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often offers limited coverage, with low reimbursement limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare the top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Ireland
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $20 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $34 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $45 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $87 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance is determined by several key factors, including the traveler's age, trip duration, destination, and selected coverage options like trip cancellation. Higher-risk destinations or longer trips often cost more. It's important to keep these in mind to find the right policy for your needs and budget.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Ireland?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Ireland while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧑💼 Traveler’s age | Premiums increase with age and can affect older travelers more. This is especially relevant for longer trips. | Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which helps save on premiums for seniors. |
| 🗓️ Trip duration | The insurance price rises with additional coverage days. Cover only the period you will be in Ireland. | Match your policy strictly to your travel dates, avoiding coverage for unnecessary extra days. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Comprehensive medical and repatriation benefits are important due to high healthcare costs in Ireland. | Select strong medical coverage, but avoid costly add-ons you do not seriously need. |
| 🌍 Geographical scope | Including global or extra regions makes policies more expensive if you only travel to Ireland. | Choose European-only or Ireland-specific coverage for a lower premium than worldwide plans. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travelers | Multi-person or group policies can be more cost-effective than individual ones. | Use a family or group policy for Ireland to pay less per person than booking separately. |
| 💳 Deductible/excess | A higher deductible reduces premiums, but increases your share of the cost if a claim arises. | Consider a deductible that you are comfortable paying to benefit from annual premium savings. |
| 🥾 Activities planned | Ireland is great for hiking and cultural tourism, but adventure sports coverage raises costs. | Avoid sports/extreme activities add-ons if you only plan sightseeing and moderate outdoor walks. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Ireland?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current insurance, such as credit card coverage or public health insurance, can protect you while traveling in Ireland. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Ireland? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for medical expenses outside the United States. No repatriation included. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical care, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Blue Cross, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Limited urgent care coverage, usually reimbursement after return. Excludes many travel risks. | Travel insurance provides $100,000+ for care in Ireland, urgent dental, and 24/7 assistance. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical under $10,000, excludes luggage loss and trip cancellation. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+, lost baggage, trip cancellation, and personal liability. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical fees up to $100,000, some baggage or delay coverage with limits. | Travel insurance includes $5,000+ trip cancellation and expansive support while abroad. |
Example
While hiking in County Kerry, Mark suffered a severe concussion. The air ambulance and initial hospital care cost $25,000. His Chase Sapphire card’s insurance had a low medical limit, and his US health plan didn’t cover overseas emergency transport, leaving him with a shocking $22,000 bill for a simple fall.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business visits to Ireland that last up to 90 days. However, you must have a valid passport for the duration of your stay. Irish officials may ask you to show proof of return travel and sufficient funds for your visit.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Ireland?
Begin by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review different options. Check each policy for features relevant to Ireland, focusing on coverage for theft, medical care, and exclusions that may apply. Proceed to buy your chosen plan online, and you will receive your insurance certificate directly by email.
Does travel insurance for Ireland cover theft or loss of belongings?
Most travel insurance policies include coverage for theft, which is important given higher rates of petty crime in cities like Dublin. Be sure to review the policy’s limits and any requirements for documentation if you need to make a claim. Theft from vehicles and accommodations is often included under baggage or personal effects.
What should I do if I need medical care while in Ireland?
Medical facilities in Ireland are modern and widely available. As a visitor, you may be charged for treatment at both public and private clinics. Travel insurance typically reimburses covered medical expenses, so keep all receipts and documentation to facilitate the claims process with your insurer.
Can I get travel insurance for rental cars in Ireland?
Many travel insurers offer optional rental car coverage, which can be especially valuable in Ireland where rental vehicles are frequently targeted by thieves. This coverage usually includes vehicle theft and damage but may exclude certain types of vehicles or drivers. Review your policy documents to understand conditions and coverage limits.
Do I need to show proof of travel insurance to enter Ireland?
While you are not required to present travel insurance at the border, Irish immigration officials may ask for evidence of sufficient funds and travel plans. Carry your insurance certificate and other documents, such as proof of accommodation and return ticket, to help demonstrate your preparedness if requested.
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business visits to Ireland that last up to 90 days. However, you must have a valid passport for the duration of your stay. Irish officials may ask you to show proof of return travel and sufficient funds for your visit.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Ireland?
Begin by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to review different options. Check each policy for features relevant to Ireland, focusing on coverage for theft, medical care, and exclusions that may apply. Proceed to buy your chosen plan online, and you will receive your insurance certificate directly by email.
Does travel insurance for Ireland cover theft or loss of belongings?
Most travel insurance policies include coverage for theft, which is important given higher rates of petty crime in cities like Dublin. Be sure to review the policy’s limits and any requirements for documentation if you need to make a claim. Theft from vehicles and accommodations is often included under baggage or personal effects.
What should I do if I need medical care while in Ireland?
Medical facilities in Ireland are modern and widely available. As a visitor, you may be charged for treatment at both public and private clinics. Travel insurance typically reimburses covered medical expenses, so keep all receipts and documentation to facilitate the claims process with your insurer.
Can I get travel insurance for rental cars in Ireland?
Many travel insurers offer optional rental car coverage, which can be especially valuable in Ireland where rental vehicles are frequently targeted by thieves. This coverage usually includes vehicle theft and damage but may exclude certain types of vehicles or drivers. Review your policy documents to understand conditions and coverage limits.
Do I need to show proof of travel insurance to enter Ireland?
While you are not required to present travel insurance at the border, Irish immigration officials may ask for evidence of sufficient funds and travel plans. Carry your insurance certificate and other documents, such as proof of accommodation and return ticket, to help demonstrate your preparedness if requested.
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