Full Breakdown
Passport Required for All Passengers on UK-Ireland Ferry Routes
By Drooid · · How we work
New Passport Rule Takes Effect
From Monday, September 28, passengers traveling on ferries between Wales and the Republic of Ireland must present a valid passport at check-in. The requirement applies to the Holyhead-Dublin, Fishguard-Rosslare, Dublin-Holyhead and Rosslare-Pembroke services operated by Irish Ferries and Stena Line. All other forms of photographic identification, such as driving licences or national identity cards, are no longer accepted for any traveller, regardless of age or nationality.
Background and Border-Force Guidance
Although the Common Travel Area (CTA) allows British and Irish citizens to travel without a passport, ferry operators are now aligning their checks with the stricter documentation standards already used by many airlines.
Operator Responses
Irish Ferries announced that the passport rule covers all passengers, including Irish and UK citizens, and that passport cards will also be accepted. The company added that non-British or non-Irish visitors staying in the UK for up to six months may need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to comply with UK entry rules. Stena Line stated that the new policy satisfies the Border Force requirement for data accuracy and integrity, and it will enforce passport checks on all departures from Dublin, Holyhead, Fishguard and Rosslare. Both operators have begun contacting customers with existing bookings to ensure they have the necessary documentation.
Impact on Travelers
The shift means travellers who previously relied on driving licences or national identity cards must obtain a passport or passport card before their journey, or risk delays or denied boarding. The rule does not affect ferry routes that travel via Belfast, Liverpool, Cairnryan or Heysham.
Upcoming Changes at Holyhead Port
In addition to the passport requirement, Holyhead Port will cease accepting cash payments from October 1, 2026, moving to debit- or credit-card-only transactions. This later change is part of a broader effort to modernise port operations.