Passport and Travel Document Requirements

What Travel Documents do I need for my Irish Ferries Journey?

Passport and identification requirements vary depending on your nationality, route, and destination.


Before travelling, all passengers should ensure they have the correct travel documentation and meet the latest entry requirements for their destination country.


Use the guidance below to find information relevant to your route.


Dover to Calais Passport Requirements

Passengers travelling between Dover and Calais must carry valid travel documents in accordance with UK and French border regulations. Our FAQ information includes:

  • Passport requirements
  • School group travel documentation
  • Entry requirements for France
  • Border control procedures
  • Visa requirements where applicable

View Dover–Calais Travel Document Requirements → Passports / ID: Dover – Calais


Irish Sea Passport and Identification Requirements

Passengers travelling between Ireland and Britain should ensure they have acceptable identification for their journey.  Our FAQ Information includes:

  • Accepted forms of ID
  • Travel requirements for adults and children
  • Documentation for British and Irish citizens
  • Route-specific guidance

View Irish Sea Travel Document Requirements → Passport and Identification – Irish Sea


Ireland to France Passport Requirements

Passengers travelling on Ireland–France routes must carry the required documentation for travel.

Our FAQ Information includes:

  • Passport validity requirements
  • Entry requirements for France
  • Visa information
  • Travel advice for EU and non-EU citizens

View Ireland–France Travel Document Requirements → Passport and Identification – Ireland to France


EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and UK ETA Information

Depending on your nationality and destination, additional digital travel authorisations or border registration requirements may apply.

These include:

  • Entry/Exit System (EES): The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) will record border crossings by non-EU passengers entering participating European countries.

  • Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Some passengers entering the UK may require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel.


View ETA Guidance → Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK: Apply for an ETA - GOV.UK 


Important Travel Advice

Travel requirements can change at short notice. Irish Ferries strongly recommends that all passengers:

  • Check official government travel advice before departure
  • Verify passport validity requirements
  • Confirm visa requirements where applicable
  • Ensure all travel documents are available before arriving at the port

Failure to present the correct travel documentation may result in denied boarding or refusal of entry by border authorities.

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