Traveler Toolkit
Ireland Country Security Report
Ireland Country Security Report
Published: July 15, 2026
This report is intended to supplement the U.S. Department of State Ireland Travel Advisory and Ireland Country Information Page.
Embassy & Consulate Contact Information
42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4.
Tel: +353-01-630-6200; After-hours emergency: +353-1-668-8777.
Hours: 0730-1630, Monday – Friday.
OSAC Country Chapter(s)
The Country Chapter in Dublin is active and meets regularly once a quarter, while the OSAC Committee meets once a month.
Contact OSAC’s Europe team with any questions.
Ireland Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses that travelers should exercise normal precautions in Ireland.
Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.
Crime
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Dublin as being a MEDIUM-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Ireland.
The crime emergency lines in Ireland are 999 or 112. Review the U.S. Department of State’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.
Crime: General Threat
According to the Central Statistics Office of Ireland, most types of crime decreased in frequency in 2026 compared to 2025. Burglary, robbery, and other forms of theft (the most common forms of crime in Ireland) dropped an additional 9% after a 12% drop in 2025. Sexual offenses decreased by about 15%, and homicides decreased by 27% compared to 2025; there have been 48 homicides in Ireland in 2026. Weapons & Explosives offences and Dangerous or Negligent Acts saw increased rates in 2026, each rising roughly 6%.
Although Ireland has a low rate of violent crime, always follow common sense personal security practices and maintain situational awareness when traveling. Crimes against U.S. nationals usually involve petty theft, burglary, and other minor offenses.
Rental cars are frequently targeted for smash-and-grabs. They are easily identifiable by the rental company stickers on the rear window of the vehicle. If possible, remove these stickers and always lock your car when leaving it unattended. Do not leave valuables unattended in vehicles. When visiting city center areas, park your car in a secure car park and retain the parking ticket on your person.
Keep car doors locked while driving. Don’t leave luggage or valuables visible inside a parked car and don’t leave luggage on a roof rack. When picking up and dropping off your rental car, do not leave the keys in the ignition while loading or unloading luggage.
When using ATMs, protect your PIN at all times and look closely at ATMs for evidence of tampering before use. Criminals may use small electronic devices attached to the outside of ATMs called “skimmers” to steal the ATM or credit card data. In busy areas, thieves use distraction techniques at ATMs, such as waiting until the PIN has been entered and then pointing to money on the ground or asking for loose change. While the ATM user is distracted, another person will quickly withdraw cash and leave. If you are distracted in any way, cancel the transaction immediately.
When using credit cards to pay at restaurants, a portable card reader should be brought to your table. Restaurant staff should not take your card elsewhere to process a charge.
Report crimes to the local police in person to the nearest Garda (police) station or by calling 999 or 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(353) (1) 668-8777. Tourists can also get free support from the Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS) as a victim of crime.
U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
Crime: Areas of Concern
There are no areas that are off limits for U.S. Government Employees.
In Dublin, the Store Street District, Pearse Street District, and Bridewell have higher rates of theft, public disorder, and drug-related offenses than the rest of the city. Galway and Waterford also record higher rates of crime per capita.
Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, Taking Credit, and Our Two Cents: Petty Crime Basics and How to Minimize the Risk.
Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Ireland.
Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.
Terrorism
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Dublin as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Ireland.
There are known indigenous terrorist organizations operating in Ireland, but these organizations tend to involve cross-border (Northern Ireland) elements that focus their activities on criminal profits rather than ideological or political concerns. Irish officials recognize and respond to the security problems created by these groups.
While Ireland has not experienced the rate of terrorist attacks as some of its neighboring European countries, the threat of lone actors and self-radicalized cells remain. Across Europe, during the long pandemic-related confinement, younger people, who were typically unknown to authorities, became more susceptible to online radicalization. Much of the terrorism threat comes from radicalized lone-actor perpetrators, who could attack using knives, vehicle rammings, guns, incendiary devices, and other methods that do not require specialized knowledge, access, or training. Lone-actor perpetrators pose a serious risk due to their ability to remain undetected, at times, until operational and their willingness to attack civilian and soft targets, such as restaurants, markets/shopping malls, hotels, clubs, and similar locations. There also remains a potential for terrorist attacks against public transportation systems and other tourism infrastructure.
Events occurring elsewhere in the world have also been used by Islamist extremists to try to galvanize individuals across Europe. Conflicts in the Middle East have resulted in increased calls by terrorist organizations like ISIS, al-Qa’ida, and HAYI for individuals to attack targets in Europe.
There have also been significant law enforcement operations to counter Dissident Republican (DR) groups in Ireland. In 2025, seven men were arrested and charged across the country for firearm possession, explosive possession, or financially supporting DR groups. The New Irish Republican Army (New IRA or NIRA) was associated with a truck bombing outside a police station in Dunmurry and a foiled car bomb in Lurgan in April 2026, and an undercover operation in May resulted in the arrest of five members of a DR breakaway cell planning assassinations of political and law enforcement figures.
DR groups aim to reunite Ireland with Northern Ireland and create a 32-county socialist republic in Ireland. They have a hierarchical structure, with specific roles, responsibilities and functions divided among members. DR groups have both a political wing and a militarized wing. The political wing can be viewed as a public front for the purpose of spreading propaganda, often through social media platforms. House-to-house leaflet dropping and protests are also among the channels used for the dissemination of propaganda. These groups have forged strong links to criminal organizations and are regularly engaged in criminal activities to fund their cause, e.g. through the sale of contraband/counterfeit items, the sale of drugs, extortion and smuggling. They also organize various charitable fundraisers and money collections to finance their activities. Criminals may also be in a position to provide weaponry as well as means of transportation into Northern Ireland.
There are also concerns about the rise of far-right extremism. Since a November 2023 stabbing of three children and an adult female by a foreign-born Irish citizen, there have been an uptick in far-right calls for protests and violence. In November 2025, two men were arrested and charged after pipe bomb components, incendiary devices, and six liters of hydrogen peroxide were seized in Portlaoise. Investigators recovered a manifesto and a masked video recording taking credit for a prior arson attempt on a Galway mosque and threatening future attacks on migrant housing. Most recently, a murder of a US citizen residing in Killarney, Ireland took place on 7 July 2026 by a Jordanian national whom also applied for asylum in Ireland. While the asylum claim was denied by Irish Authorities, the Jordanian national was afforded housing under subsidiary protection, a separate legal status that permits a person to remain in Ireland if returning them to their home country would expose them to a “serious risk of harm,” even if they do not qualify as refugees under the Refugee Convention. This has continued to spark overlapping debates on immigration within Ireland.
Far-left extremism is also a growing concern. Even before the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in 2023, left-wing extremists have participated in environmental protests, and campaigned against perceived British, EU and American imperialism. Generally, left-wing extremists target right-wing political activists and groups they perceive to be extreme. In late 2025, Gardaí launched a formal public order investigation following a violent ambush in Dublin where a far-left militant cell utilized weapons to physically assault members of the anti-immigration group Clann Éireann.
Political Violence and Civil Unrest
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Dublin as being a LOW-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Ireland. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.
Elections/Political Stability
Ireland is a multiparty parliamentary democracy with a directly elected president, an executive branch headed by a prime minister, and a bicameral parliament. Ireland held early parliamentary elections in November 2024 following the dissolution of its government. Elections were overwhelmingly peaceful.
Protests & Demonstrations
Protests occur on a regular basis, though most are peaceful. However, some have the potential to turn violent. Since 2023, Ireland has seen a significant number of anti and pro-migrant protests, representing the most common topic of demonstration. Conflicts in the Middle East, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, and economic factors have also been key drivers of protests.
In April 2025, Dublin saw over 10,000 protestors march from the Garden of Remembrance to the Custom House in a national protest against immigration. Further protests in June and October also focused on migration; in both cases, violence occurred, resulting in property damage, injuries to law enforcement, and arrests.
In April 2026, convoys of tractors and heavy trucks blocked traffic on the M50 motorway to protest fuel price hikes, and protestors blockaded the Whitegate Oil Refinery. In June, large crowds of demonstrators mobilized in central Dublin outside government buildings to protest Ireland's impending implementation of the new EU Migration and Asylum Pact. Protesters cited concerns over infrastructure strain, border control, and local housing resources.
Protests can be well organized and attended, and can lead to some disruption, including to traffic and public transport. Irish police presence at these events is generally adequate, although travelers should avoid areas where protests take place. Historically, only protests involving U.S. interests might lead to direct targeting of the U.S. Embassy by protesters. Avoid large gatherings and follow advice of local authorities.
Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
In general, anti-U.S. sentiment is extremely low and does not affect the private sector.
Law Enforcement
An Garda Siochana (or “Garda”) is the national police force and maintains internal security under the auspices of the Justice Department. Garda is Ireland’s sole provider of policing, law enforcement, and state security.
The defense forces are responsible for external security under the supervision of the Defense Department; they are also authorized to perform certain domestic security responsibilities in support of the Garda. Civilian authorities maintain effective control over the security forces. There have been no reports that members of the security forces committed abuses.
Police Response
Police response times in Ireland are typically slower than in the United States. Police response to crime in Ireland is generally adequate and timely within the larger urban areas, especially Dublin, but considerably slower in the more rural areas of Ireland.
The emergency line in Ireland is 999 or 112 for police, fire, ambulance, and coast guard from any phone, including mobiles.
Transportation Security
Road Safety
Road conditions and safety standards meet or exceed U.S. standards, except in remote areas, where roads can be extremely narrow and difficult to navigate. Vehicle accidents are common and are a major hazard for foreign drivers, especially those not accustomed to driving in Ireland, where cars drive on the left side of the road. Those without experience driving on the left should be especially cautious; tourists driving on the incorrect side of the road are the cause of several serious accidents each year.
Major roads and highways are well maintained, and extensive lighting exists. However, once drivers exit the highway, roads are likely to be narrow, uneven, and winding. Roads are more dangerous during the summer and on holiday weekends. Drivers should be attentive to cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in urban areas.
Most intersections in Ireland use circular roundabouts instead of traffic lights; pay close attention to signs and yield the right of way to those already in the roundabout. Most rental cars in Ireland have manual transmissions; it can be difficult to find automatic transmission rental cars.
Police periodically set up roadblocks to check for drunk drivers. Penalties for driving under the influence can be severe. At stoplights, turning on a red light is illegal; drivers must wait for either a full green (any direction turn permitted) or directional green light (which could be straight, left, or right) before proceeding with caution.
Drivers may use their existing U.S. driver’s license in Ireland for a temporary stay, which can be for any period of time up to one year. Some insurance and car rental companies may request an International Driving Permit in addition to your existing driver’s license. Drivers are required to apply for an Irish driver’s license if they become a resident of Ireland. Travelers planning to drive to Northern Ireland are subject to UK traffic laws while in Northern Ireland. Traffic signs may be different than in the Republic of Ireland.
Weather conditions, especially in the western part of the country, can contribute to hazardous road conditions. A number of tour organizations arrange travel throughout the country, with varying degrees of service; none are off-limits for U.S. government employees.
Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.
Public Transportation Safety
The overall transportation system is efficient and safe. Taxis, buses, and trains are safe. Local bus service in the cities is generally adequate, although many buses are crowded, frequently run late, and lines do not necessarily link easily. Pay close attention to bus stop locations in both directions, as the drop-off and pick-up locations could be several blocks away from each other. Taxi rates vary with time of day and location. Ask your hotel for the number of a call-dispatched taxi service if you plan to be out during less busy times.
Aviation Concerns
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Ireland’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Ireland’s air carrier operations.
Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.
Maritime Security
Ferries are a main route of transportation across the Irish Sea from Ireland to Great Britain, and some travel south to France. Ferry companies maintain strict rules as to items that cannot board vessels, whether carried by individual travelers or packed in a vehicle, to include arms, ammunition, and excess fuel. Security screening of vehicles occurs prior to boarding, supplemented by Coast Guard presence at the port and aboard vessels.
Travelers with Special Considerations
For specific traveler concerns in Ireland, review the local laws and circumstances on the U.S. Department of State’s Country Information Page.
Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption, & Transparency
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Risk of Wrongful Detention “D” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Ireland. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
The law provides criminal penalties for corruption by officials, and the government generally implements the laws effectively. There have not been any reports of central government corruption.
Health Concerns
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Ireland. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.
Patients who do not receive benefits from Ireland’s Department of Social Protection are expected to pay all costs up-front at the time of treatment and apply for reimbursement from their insurance provider later.
Modern medical facilities and highly skilled medical practitioners are available in Ireland. Expect long waits for access to medical specialists and admissions to hospitals for non-life-threatening medical conditions. It is not unusual for emergency room services to be very busy or for post-treatment admissions to include a long wait (sometimes overnight) on a gurney in a hallway.
Carry your medical history, along with a detailed list of any current medications, including dosage and brand name, in your wallet or purse and luggage. Most types of over-the-counter medications are available but many U.S. brands are not. Some medications available over the counter in the United States may require a prescription in Ireland. Irish pharmacists may not be able to dispense medication prescribed by U.S. physicians and may direct you to obtain a prescription from an Irish doctor. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Ireland to ensure the medication is legal in Ireland.
Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Travelers are advised to have supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
Ambulance services are widely available.
For emergency services in Ireland, dial 112 or 999.
Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on health insurance overseas.
See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.
Vaccinations
Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.
Issues Traveling with Medications
Carry your medical history, along with a detailed list of any current medications, including dosage and brand name, in your wallet or purse and luggage. Most types of over-the-counter medications are available but many U.S. brands are not. Some medications available over the counter in the United States may require a prescription in Ireland. Irish pharmacists may not be able to dispense medication prescribed by U.S. physicians and may direct you to obtain a prescription from an Irish doctor.
Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Ireland to ensure the medication is legal in Ireland.
Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.
Water Quality
Water in Ireland is potable.
Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?
Natural Disasters
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Natural Disaster “N” Indicator on the Travel Advisory Ireland.
Coastal erosion can be a hazard in Ireland, especially where housing or roads abut cliffs. Ireland is indirectly affected by volcanic ash, given its location relative to Iceland. Other hazards, such as sinkholes, landslides, and flooding occur on occasion. Landslides occur mainly in areas with steep slopes, where rock meets the surface and peat covers the terrain. Sinkholes occur in Karst landscapes, which are characterized by solution and voids in the bedrock. An uneven bedrock surface, gradual ground subsidence, or sudden collapse associated with subsurface voids can results in significant problems for engineering.
Ireland has experienced an increased frequency of groundwater flooding. Groundwater flooding occurs when the water table rises above the land surface. It generally requires sustained rainfall over relatively longer duration than other forms of flooding, its location is discontinuous, and can last for weeks or months. Geological Survey Ireland has established a network of permanent monitoring stations providing real-time information on water levels at key sites which are representative of the spectrum of groundwater flooding conditions in Ireland.
Cybersecurity
Cybercrime is a major concern, particularly with more than 800 U.S. companies and many of the leading technology firms locating their European headquarters in Ireland. Cybercrime is the most prevalent type of fraud committed in Ireland. The Irish government has been taking proactive steps to address this growing threat, including approving a new National Cyber Security Strategy.
Cybercrime remains the most prevalent financial crime in Ireland, with 51% of financial compliance professionals ranking it as their top operational risk in 2026—a sharp increase from 34% in 2023. Cyberattacks are costing Irish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) €3.4 billion annually, driven largely by AI-powered phishing and ransomware.
Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.
Counterintelligence Issues
Be mindful of having sensitive conversations in public, especially online, as the expectation of privacy is always diminished. Do not leave personal electronic items unattended in hotel rooms
Import/Export Restrictions
Carry your medical history, along with a detailed list of any current medications, including dosage and brand name, in your wallet or purse and luggage. Most types of over-the-counter medications are available but many U.S. brands are not. Irish pharmacists may not be able to dispense medication prescribed by U.S. physicians and may direct you to obtain a prescription from an Irish doctor.
There are no restrictions on satellite phones in Ireland.
A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.