How to Apply for an Irish Passport – Fees and Payment Options


1. Introduction: Irish Passport Costs in 2024

Irish passports are available to Irish citizens and offer significant benefits, including visa-free travel across the EU and access to numerous countries worldwide. The cost of an Irish passport varies depending on the type (adult, child, or emergency passport) and the processing speed. This guide covers all you need to know about Irish passport fees and the application process for 2024.

2. Cost of an Irish Passport for Adults

  • Standard 10-Year Passport (34 Pages): €75 when applying online.
  • Large 10-Year Passport (66 Pages): €105 for those who need extra pages for frequent travel.

Online applications are generally less expensive and faster. Postal applications are available, but costs may differ slightly, and processing times can be longer.

3. Cost of an Irish Passport for Children

  • Standard 5-Year Passport (Under 18): €20 when applying online.

This is a relatively low cost compared to adult passports, and the passport is valid for five years.

4. Express and Urgent Processing Fees

If you need your Irish passport quickly, additional fees apply:

  • Passport Express (Ireland only): An additional €9 fee on top of the standard application fee, with a turnaround of approximately 10 working days.
  • Emergency Passports: Prices vary depending on urgency and can be significantly higher, so it’s best to check with your local passport office.

5. Additional Costs for Irish Passports Abroad

If you’re applying from outside Ireland, processing fees may be slightly higher due to postage or local service fees. Irish embassies and consulates often offer passport application services, but fees can vary depending on the country.

  • UK and EU: Prices are similar to Ireland but may include additional postage fees.
  • USA: Typically around $110 USD for a standard adult passport, with minor adjustments based on exchange rates and postage fees.

6. How to Pay for an Irish Passport

Payments can be made by credit or debit card for online applications. For postal applications, payment methods vary but often include postal orders or bank drafts. Embassies and consulates may accept cash or card payments depending on their policies.

7. Validity and Renewal Costs

  • Adult Passport Validity: 10 years
  • Child Passport Validity: 5 years

Renewal costs are the same as a new application, so budget for €75 (or €105 for a large passport) when renewing your adult passport.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does it take to get an Irish passport? Standard online applications typically take 10-15 working days, while Passport Express takes about 10 days.
  • Can I renew my Irish passport online? Yes, both adults and children can renew their passports online, which is generally faster and more affordable.
  • Do I need to pay extra for express processing? Yes, express and urgent processing options come with additional fees.

9. Conclusion

The cost of an Irish passport ranges from €20 for children to €105 for frequent travelers. Applying online is generally the most affordable and efficient option. By budgeting for the correct fee and choosing the right processing time, you can obtain your Irish passport smoothly and be ready for international travel.