Ireland Passport Card – What You Need to Know (2025)

The Irish Passport Card is a compact, secure travel document designed for Irish citizens. It’s ideal for short trips within Europe, offering convenience without carrying a full passport booklet. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering applying for one in 2025.

What Is the Ireland Passport Card?

The Ireland Passport Card is a wallet-sized travel document that functions as an official form of identification and allows travel to specific countries in the EU and EEA. It is valid for 5 years or until your passport booklet expires, whichever comes first.

Benefits of the Irish Passport Card

Convenient Size: Fits easily in your wallet or purse.
Fast Processing: Quicker turnaround time than a full passport.
Safe and Secure: Contains biometric features and meets international travel document standards.
Travel-Ready: Valid for use across EU countries, EEA states, Switzerland, and other select destinations.

Who Can Apply?

To apply for an Irish Passport Card, you must:

Be an Irish citizen
Already hold a valid Irish passport booklet with at least 6 months’ validity remaining

How to Apply for an Irish Passport Card

The application process is fully digital. Here’s how to apply:

Go to the official passport application website.
Complete the online form.
Upload a passport-style photo.
Pay the application fee securely online.

Fees

Passport Card only: €35
When combined with passport booklet application: €25

Note: Fees may vary based on where you’re applying from and whether additional postage is required.

Processing Time

Typical processing time: 3–5 working days
Expect longer wait times during peak travel seasons

Where Can You Travel With the Ireland Passport Card?

The Passport Card can be used to travel to:

All EU countries
EEA member states
Switzerland
Other countries that accept the card for entry (check travel advisories before departure)

Note: It is not valid for international travel outside these regions.

Additional Uses

Accepted as official ID for domestic and EU travel
Ideal for frequent travelers or those wanting a backup to their main passport
Useful in cases where you don’t want to carry your full passport booklet

Final Thoughts

The Ireland Passport Card is an excellent travel and identification tool for Irish citizens, especially those frequently visiting European countries. It’s compact, secure, and quick to obtain – a smart addition to your travel essentials.