- The best travel insurance plans for Ireland
- Is it currently safe to travel to Ireland?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Ireland?
- Why take out travel insurance for Ireland?
- What should travel insurance for Ireland cover?
- Cost of travel insurance for Ireland
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Ireland
- Will your current insurance cover you in Ireland?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Ireland: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Ireland covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost baggage.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Canadians, but it is highly recommended for financial protection.
3. Healthcare cost: A hospital stay in Ireland can cost foreign visitors over $1,500 CAD per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Ireland typically costs between $30 and $60 CAD.
5. Good to know: Remember, Ireland is not in the Schengen Area, so plan travel to Europe accordingly.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Ireland.
The best travel insurance plans for Ireland
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | CA$1.5M | Top choice for high limits and peace of mind while in Ireland. - high medical ceiling - repatriation - modern guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | CA$1.5M | Good coverage for shorter stays and city visits. - 24/7 helpline - cancellation included - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | CA$750K | Efficient protection at a reasonable price for trips to Ireland. - good medical cover - emergency help - attractive cost |
| Travel Pass Monde | CA$1.0M | Balances wide cover with clear support abroad. - repatriation - pays hospital fees - broad territorial reach |
| Globe Partner | CA$430K | Basic international coverage for Irish stays with simple terms. - essential medical - repatriation - liability included |
| Globe Traveller | CA$750K | Simple solution for short, low-risk trips to Ireland. - basic health cover - fast claim process - limited cap |
- high medical ceiling
- repatriation
- modern guarantees
- 24/7 helpline
- cancellation included
- no deductible
- good medical cover
- emergency help
- attractive cost
- repatriation
- pays hospital fees
- broad territorial reach
- essential medical
- repatriation
- liability included
- basic health cover
- fast claim process
- limited cap
Is it currently safe to travel to Ireland?
As of June 2025, the Government of Canada, through Global Affairs Canada, states that Ireland continues to be a safe destination for Canadian travellers and recommends adopting normal safety precautions.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime, such as pickpocketing, commonly affects tourists in crowded areas of Dublin, including Temple Bar and on public transport. Avoid leaving valuables unattended, especially in rental cars.
- Health risks: healthcare is of a high standard throughout Ireland, but medical treatment is expensive for visitors. Emergency services are responsive, though all care requires upfront payment. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine immunizations.
- Road safety: driving is on the left and narrow rural roads can be hazardous, especially in the west. Road accidents are more common during rainy weather and on winding stretches like the Ring of Kerry.
- Legal regulations: alcohol laws are strictly enforced, including public intoxication and drinking under age 18. Other rules include restrictions on certain medications and a requirement to carry photo identification at all times.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by Global Affairs Canada, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Ireland.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Ireland?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for Canadian citizens to enter Ireland.
Although it is not a legal entry requirement, travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers. This is because healthcare in Ireland is expensive for visitors, and any medical treatment or hospital admission typically requires upfront payment. Travel insurance can also cover trip interruptions, loss of belongings, and emergency repatriation.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Ireland. This reflects Ireland’s reputation as a safe country with an excellent but costly health system and the need for financial protection during unforeseen events.
Why take out travel insurance for Ireland?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Ireland.
While Ireland has a high standard of medical care, health costs can be significant for foreign visitors. Hospitals such as St Vincent’s University Hospital in Dublin and private clinics in Cork typically require upfront payment for treatment. Even public hospitals rarely provide free care to non-residents, which means any emergency or specialist intervention can lead to substantial expenses.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Canada in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Ireland.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at St Vincent’s University Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | €3,400 (CA$5,050) | up to €1,000,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | €2,600 (CA$3,860) | up to €1,000,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | €15,000 (CA$22,300) | up to €1,000,000 |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | €8,000 (CA$11,900) | up to €1,000,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Ireland cover?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers urgent medical treatment, consultations, surgery, and hospital bills if you fall ill or are injured. For Ireland, we recommend at least CA$1,000,000 reimbursement. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Pays for ambulance transportation or airlift to the nearest equipped hospital if needed. Reimbursement of at least CA$300,000 is strongly advised for remote areas. |
| ✈️ Repatriation | Covers the cost to return you to Canada in the event of a serious accident or illness. A limit of at least CA$500,000 is prudent for international repatriation. |
| 💼 Baggage loss/theft | Protects your personal belongings against theft or loss while travelling. Recommended coverage: at least CA$2,000 per insured person for valuables and suitcases. |
| ⛔ Trip cancellation/interruption | Refunds paid non-refundable expenses if you must cancel or shorten your trip due to covered events. Look for at least CA$3,000–CA$5,000 per person in coverage. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Covers expenses if you accidentally cause injury or damage to property. At least CA$1,000,000 recommended, especially for driving or adventure activities. |
| 💊 Prescription drugs | Reimburses the cost of essential medications prescribed while abroad. Recommended cap: CA$5,000 per claim. |
| 🦷 Dental emergencies | Covers emergency dental care due to accidental injury during your trip. Consider a limit of at least CA$1,000–CA$2,000. |
For Ireland, we recommend at least CA$1,000,000 reimbursement.
Reimbursement of at least CA$300,000 is strongly advised for remote areas.
A limit of at least CA$500,000 is prudent for international repatriation.
Recommended coverage: at least CA$2,000 per insured person for valuables and suitcases.
Look for at least CA$3,000–CA$5,000 per person in coverage.
At least CA$1,000,000 recommended, especially for driving or adventure activities.
Recommended cap: CA$5,000 per claim.
Consider a limit of at least CA$1,000–CA$2,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards may offer only limited benefits, with low reimbursement limits and important exclusions. It is safer to select full coverage from a trusted insurer. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant protection.
Cost of travel insurance for Ireland
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | CA$24 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | CA$50 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | CA$70 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | CA$200 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance for Ireland depends on several elements. These include the traveller's age, trip duration, desired coverage amount, and any pre-existing health conditions. Optional add-ons like trip cancellation and interruption insurance also influence the final price. Keep these factors in mind to select a policy that fits your needs and budget.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Ireland
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Ireland while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | The longer your trip, the higher your premium, as insurance risk increases with trip length. | Only insure the exact travel dates rather than rounding up, to avoid excessive costs. |
| 🧑 Traveller's age | Premiums rise with age, especially for those over 60, due to higher health risks when travelling. | The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, check their offer. |
| 💰 Level of coverage | Higher medical and baggage coverage limits increase the cost, but very low limits can be risky. | Opt for adequate, not excessive, medical and repatriation coverage based on your needs. |
| 🏄 Activities covered | Some policies charge more for high-risk sports or activities common in Ireland, like hiking. | Declare only the activities you actually plan to do so you're not overpaying. |
| 👪 Number of travelers | Family or group policies may offer a discount for multiple insured people travelling together. | Choose family or group policies where available for better rates per person. |
| 🌍 Geographical coverage | Worldwide or multi-country policies are pricier than single-country coverage for Ireland alone. | Select Ireland-only coverage unless you are visiting other countries on your route. |
| 👨⚕️ Medical history | Pre-existing conditions can raise prices, but some insurers are more flexible than others. | Compare offers for pre-existing condition coverage to avoid unnecessary loadings. |
Will your current insurance cover you in Ireland?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your existing coverage—such as public health insurance, private health insurance, or credit card insurance—can protect you during a trip to Ireland. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Ireland? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (e.g., RAMQ) | Never | No emergency care or hospitalization abroad. No repatriation. | Travel insurance covers up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical emergencies and repatriation, as well as 24/7 local assistance. |
| Private health insurance (Great-West Life, Sun Life) | Limited coverage | May reimburse partial medical costs on return (CA$15,000–CA$25,000 max). Often excludes repatriation and upfront payment needed. | Travel insurance often reimburses up to CA$1,000,000+ including direct hospital payments and full repatriation cover. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Limited coverage | Medical emergencies up to CA$10,000–CA$15,000. Excludes trip cancellation, baggage, and high-risk activities. | Travel insurance includes up to CA$1,000,000+ for medical costs, baggage, trip cancellation, and hazardous activities. |
| Premium credit card (Visa Infinite, Gold Mastercard) | Limited coverage | Medical up to CA$100,000–CA$250,000. Some trip delay or lost baggage coverage (low limits). Excludes pre-existing chronic conditions. | Travel insurance provides CA$1,000,000–CA$5,000,000 coverage, including chronic conditions and emergency evacuation. |
Example
During a hike on the Cliffs of Moher, Liam slipped, requiring an airlift and surgery for a complex ankle fracture. The total bill reached CA$30,000. His BMO World Elite Mastercard covered only CA$10,000, and his provincial health plan was insufficient, leaving him with a staggering CA$20,000 out-of-pocket expense.
Expert advice
Trip interruption for a family emergency is often excluded from credit card or provincial health plans. Read your policy's fine print carefully to avoid costly surprises abroad. For peace of mind, it's always safer to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit Ireland for tourism or business for stays up to 90 days. You simply need a valid Canadian passport for the length of your stay. However, border officers may request proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your trip.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Ireland?
To buy travel insurance for Ireland, first compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool. Always check the coverage and exclusions, paying special attention to Ireland-specific needs. Once you’ve chosen the best option, purchase your plan online and you’ll receive your insurance certificate instantly by email.
What are typical healthcare costs in Ireland for Canadians?
Healthcare for visitors in Ireland can be expensive, especially in private clinics. A short hospital stay might cost CA$5,000 or more, with repatriation costing upwards of CA$20,000. Medical insurance that covers at least CA$1,000,000 in medical expenses is recommended to avoid these costly bills.
Can I get travel insurance if I have pre-existing medical conditions?
Yes, some insurers offer plans that cover pre-existing conditions, but you must declare them when applying. Coverage may cost more, and some conditions may be excluded, so read the policy carefully. Always compare offers and select a plan that meets your health needs.
Does travel insurance cover activities like hiking or adventure sports in Ireland?
Standard travel insurance generally covers walking, sightseeing, and basic hiking, but riskier activities may need additional coverage. If you plan adventure sports or excursions, check your policy’s exclusions. You can often add extra coverage for these activities when buying your plan.
When should I purchase travel insurance for my trip to Ireland?
It is best to purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. Early purchase ensures you are covered for unexpected events leading up to departure, such as cancellations or changes due to unforeseen medical issues. Most policies provide immediate cancellation coverage once payment is confirmed.
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
Canadian citizens do not need a visa to visit Ireland for tourism or business for stays up to 90 days. You simply need a valid Canadian passport for the length of your stay. However, border officers may request proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your trip.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Ireland?
To buy travel insurance for Ireland, first compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool. Always check the coverage and exclusions, paying special attention to Ireland-specific needs. Once you’ve chosen the best option, purchase your plan online and you’ll receive your insurance certificate instantly by email.
What are typical healthcare costs in Ireland for Canadians?
Healthcare for visitors in Ireland can be expensive, especially in private clinics. A short hospital stay might cost CA$5,000 or more, with repatriation costing upwards of CA$20,000. Medical insurance that covers at least CA$1,000,000 in medical expenses is recommended to avoid these costly bills.
Can I get travel insurance if I have pre-existing medical conditions?
Yes, some insurers offer plans that cover pre-existing conditions, but you must declare them when applying. Coverage may cost more, and some conditions may be excluded, so read the policy carefully. Always compare offers and select a plan that meets your health needs.
Does travel insurance cover activities like hiking or adventure sports in Ireland?
Standard travel insurance generally covers walking, sightseeing, and basic hiking, but riskier activities may need additional coverage. If you plan adventure sports or excursions, check your policy’s exclusions. You can often add extra coverage for these activities when buying your plan.
When should I purchase travel insurance for my trip to Ireland?
It is best to purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. Early purchase ensures you are covered for unexpected events leading up to departure, such as cancellations or changes due to unforeseen medical issues. Most policies provide immediate cancellation coverage once payment is confirmed.
On the same topic
