Germany Visa RequirementsFor Ireland passport holders
Irish citizens travel to Germany without any visa requirement under EU freedom of movement. Germany is a founding Schengen member and a major destination for the large Irish community living and working there.
Great news! Ireland passport holders can enter Germany without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa is needed. Present your Irish passport. EU citizens have the right to stay and work in Germany without restriction. For stays beyond three months, register with the local Einwohnermeldeamt (residents registration office) within two weeks of establishing a permanent address.
Germany is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Ireland to Germany: What You Need to Know
Germany has one of the largest Irish expatriate communities in continental Europe, with thousands of Irish citizens living in Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, and Hamburg. Irish passport holders have full EU freedom of movement rights in Germany and can live, work, and study without any permit. Many Irish workers moved to Germany during and after the 2008-2012 economic crisis, establishing strong community ties.
How to Get There
From Frankfurt and Munich airports, Irish travelers can connect to virtually anywhere in the world. German cities are well connected by Flixbus and BlaBlaCar for budget overland travel. Day trips from Frankfurt to Heidelberg, from Munich to Salzburg, and from Berlin to Dresden are all very popular.
Money & Banking
Germany uses the Euro (EUR). Germany is notably more cash-oriented than other Western European countries. Many restaurants, smaller shops, and market stalls accept cash only. Always carry some Euros. ATMs (called Geldautomaten) are widely available.
Practical Tips
Germany has one of the best rail networks in Europe. The Deutsche Bahn (DB) inter-city express (ICE) connects major cities efficiently, though trains are often delayed. Book in advance for best fares. Germany uses the Euro. Tipping 5 to 10 percent is customary in restaurants. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are common and well-stocked for minor health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Irish citizens need a visa for Germany?
No. Irish citizens are EU nationals and have full freedom of movement in Germany.
Does Germany use the Euro?
Yes. Germany uses the Euro (EUR).
Is Germany cash-heavy compared to Ireland?
Yes. Germany has a stronger cash culture than Ireland. Many restaurants, smaller shops, and market stalls accept cash only. Always carry some Euros.
How do I register as an EU citizen living in Germany?
EU citizens moving to Germany should register with the local Einwohnermeldeamt (residents registration office) within two weeks of establishing a permanent address. This is required for employment, banking, and most administrative purposes.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Germany?
Yes. Dublin and Cork have direct flights to Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin, Hamburg, Dusseldorf, and Stuttgart operated by Ryanair, Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, and others.
What are the main Irish-German ties?
Germany and Ireland have strong economic connections, with German companies heavily invested in Ireland and many Irish multinationals operating in Germany. Germany is one of Ireland's top trading partners.
Can Irish citizens work in Germany without restrictions?
Yes. EU freedom of movement gives Irish citizens the full right to work in Germany without any permit.