Ireland Travel Insurance

Author: Melissa A.

Published: February 28th, 2025 | Updated: February 28th, 2025
Read time: 5 mins

Canada ranks as one of the top ten largest sources of international visitors to the island of Ireland. Whether it’s the abundance of experiences that attract Canadians no matter the season, its rich culture and history, stunning landscapes, Dublin nightlife, ease of flight accessibility, or a visit to see family, Canadians typically spend 10 nights and tour several regions. Before jet-setting off there, it’s helpful to understand why travel insurance for Ireland is essential and how it can prepare you for an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations!

Do I need travel insurance for Ireland?

While not mandatory, Ireland trip insurance is a smart investment to protect yourself from anything unforeseen when travelling abroad. It can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable and non-transferable trip expenses if your holiday is unexpectedly cancelled, interrupted or delayed for a covered reason. It can also reimburse you for covered medical expenses, which can be exorbitant if you get critically ill or injured. Additionally, it can reimburse you for lost or stolen baggage, personal belongings, and essential items up to a limit if your baggage is delayed and does not arrive with you at your destination.

To visit Ireland as a Canadian tourist for up to 90 days, you must have a valid passport for the entire duration of your stay. Customs may also request proof of a return or onward ticket and sufficient funds. If you are heading to Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, you must secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) by applying online through the UK government website at least one week before your departure to allow time for approval.

What does Ireland travel insurance cover?

Ireland travel insurance plans differ by provider, but most typically cover trip cancellation, interruptions, delays, missed departures or connections, baggage loss and delay, medical emergencies, personal effects, sports and adventure activities that are not deemed high-risk, and 24/7 travel assistance. Some plans may also provide coverage for family members, pre-existing conditions, COVID-19, emergency evacuation and repatriation, rental car, high-risk sports and adventure activities, gadgets, etc. If not, you can add additional coverages. Review a policy’s terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions to understand precisely what you will and will not be covered for.

Do I need health insurance to travel to Ireland?

Travel health insurance for Ireland, better known as emergency medical insurance, is not required but vital when travelling there. Your Government Health Insurance Plan (GHIP) is limited and likely will not extend coverage outside Canada. Healthcare overseas can be costly if you experience a medical emergency that requires treatment, emergency transportation, a doctor’s visit or hospitalization, and can climb from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. You will be expected to pay for your medical services upfront and out-of-pocket if you do not have medical travel insurance for Ireland. The best emergency medical plan to buy will be one that also includes coverage for pre-existing conditions, medical evacuation to the nearest qualified hospital and repatriation to return home to Canada for medical treatment or in the case of death.

How much does Ireland travel insurance cost?

The cost of travel insurance for a trip to Ireland varies but will typically range from 4%-10% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip cost. Several risk factors influence the price. They include the traveller’s age, number of travellers, trip length, coverage level, destination if it is high-risk or remote, policy limits, deductible, and optional add-on coverages. Seniors and those with pre-existing medical conditions may face higher premiums. To keep the cost of travel insurance as cheap as possible, check if you have existing coverage through your company benefits plan, a travel rewards credit card that you used for trip payment or another policy. In this case, you will need supplemental travel insurance, which can save you money. To best determine the cost of your travel insurance, use our online comparison tool to get a quote from several providers. Also, take a look at our reviews to find out what travellers are saying about their experience purchasing travel insurance from us.

What is the best travel insurance for Ireland?

The appropriate travel insurance plan is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip to Ireland. The best plan will be suited to your travel needs, and you can purchase it from us on InsureMyTrip. Unfortunately, we do not offer travel insurance plans from a bank. When selecting a plan, ensure it provides coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and repatriation, trip cancellation and interruption, baggage loss and delay, and 24/7 travel assistance. Tailor a plan by adding additional coverages you need, such as pre-existing conditions, high-risk sports and adventure activities, Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) benefits, etc.

As a Canadian traveller, consider whether you will take a single trip or a multi-trip (more than two trips per year). Multi-trip insurance, commonly known as annual travel insurance, is excellent for frequent travellers, contains multiple coverages, and is a cost-effective plan option. For extended trips to numerous destinations, backpacker insurance is a better option, offering 18-24 months of coverage and allowing multiple return trips home. If you are taking a single trip, all-inclusive insurance is an excellent plan option containing various coverages.

Do visitors from Ireland to Canada need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is not required for visitors coming to Canada from Ireland. However, travel insurance Ireland to Canada is highly encouraged, significantly because Canada’s government health insurance plan does not extend to visitors. Therefore, visitors are responsible for all medical expenses incurred in Canada. The cost of healthcare services for visitors travelling in Canada can be extravagant. But Visitors to Canada travel insurance (VTC Insurance), including medical coverage, can protect visitors against unexpected medical costs and travel disruptions.