Ireland has extended its Short-Stay Visa Waiver Programme for Indian nationals with valid UK short-stay visas until 31 December 2026. The change came into effect on 29 October.

Eligible Indian passport holders can visit Ireland without applying for a separate visa, provided they have legally entered the UK using their UK visa before visiting Ireland. Transit through a UK airport without clearing immigration does not count as entry.

UK visas issued for transit or marriage cannot be used for the visa waiver. Those living in the UK long-term cannot use the waiver but do not pay the visa fee.

Travellers can go directly from the UK to Ireland after entering the UK with an eligible visa. There is no minimum number of days required in the UK before visiting Ireland. Travellers can also visit another country after the UK and fly to Ireland without returning to the UK.