Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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1963. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the last time the visa exemption list was updated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41285/25]

Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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1964. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the criteria and considerations used in determining which countries are granted visa free access to Ireland for short stays; and the rationale behind the current inclusion of certain states on the visa-exempt list. [41317/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1963 and 1964 together.

I can advise the Deputy that the requirements for which countries are visa required to come to Ireland are kept under regular review in consultation with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade. There are a number of other factors that also must be taken into consideration when any change to the visa regime is contemplated so that my Department can continue to facilitate people who have legitimate reasons to come to Ireland. Section 17 (1) of the Immigration Act 2004 provides the reasons for which Irish visa arrangements may be amended, among them, ensuring the integrity of the immigration system, the maintenance of national security, public order or public health and the promotion of tourism.

A central consideration in visa policy is to strike an appropriate balance between protecting the country's vital national interests by maintaining an effective immigration regime while at the same time facilitating travel for those who meet the criteria for travel.

I can advise the Deputy that the visa required list was last amended on 12 May 2025, when Trinidad and Tobago became subject to Irish visa requirements which means that they now need to obtain an Irish visa before travelling to Ireland.

A full list of visa required nationalities is available at the following link: