The Irish airline has been known to allow alternative forms of identification for travel but rules are changing
(Image: Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Aer Lingus has announced a major change to rules for travel between Ireland and the UK.
The Irish airline has long been praised for the option to travel between Ireland and the British Isles using other forms of identification. Many have used the airline in order to travel with identification such as a birth certificate.
But now a major change is being forced on the airline by the British government. As a result, passengers will have to use either a passport or passport card for travel between Ireland and the UK.
The new rules come into force from February 25 2026. Now, those that are not a British or Irish national will need an ETA to enter the UK from that date.
What are the rules for travel between Ireland and the UK?
If you’re a national of Ireland and/or Britain, you need to carry a valid passport or Irish Passport Card in order to fly with us on international routes from 25 February 2026.
Note: From 25 February 2026, photo identification other than a passport or Irish Passport Card will no longer be accepted on international flights between Ireland and Britain.
Acceptable forms of identification:
Valid passport or Irish Passport Card
Nationals of Ireland and Britain under the age of 16 must also present a valid passport or Irish Passport Card when travelling internationally from 25 February 2026.
Nationals of countries other than Ireland and Britain must produce a valid passport and visa where applicable for travel between Ireland and Britain. They may also need to hold an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for UK travel, where applicable.
What about travel between Belfast and mainland UK?
Photo ID requirements remain unchanged on domestic UK routes operated by Emerald Airlines between Belfast and other parts of the UK.
Acceptable photo ID for Irish and UK nationals for travel on domestic UK routes only remains unchanged.
valid passport or Irish Passport Carddriver’s licence with photo (provisional or full)International Student Identity Cardgovernment issued photo ID cardshealth insurance cards with photo/social security cards with photobus pass with photo, Work ID with photovalid UK armed forces’ identity cardvalid UK police warrant card/badge.
Nationals of Ireland and the UK under the age of 16 don’t need photo ID on domestic UK routes only when travelling with their parent or guardian.
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