What are the current COVID-19 restrictions in Ireland?

Restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Ireland have been eased, but that does not mean the virus has gone away. It is especially important to self-isolate and take a test if you have symptoms of COVID-19.

Depending on case numbers, the Government may increase or reduce the number of restrictions in place as needed. It’s important to keep up to date with the latest guidance.

In this article:

• What restrictions have been removed?
• Do I still have to wear a face mask?
• Can I travel?

What restrictions have been removed?

In January 2022, almost all COVID-19 restrictions in Ireland were lifted.

This includes:

• No more limits on household visits
• Early closing time for restaurants and bars removed
• Limits removed on the number of people who can attend indoor and outdoor events
• No more restrictions on nightclubs
• You no longer need a Digital COVID Cert to enter certain businesses like restaurants, pubs and cinemas or theatres

Return to the office

A phased return to the office has begun on 24 January. This means employers can begin gradually bringing employees back into the office.

Do I have to return to the office?

Many employers have introduced a ‘hybrid’ system that allows employees to opt for a mix of working from home and working from the office. Others have allowed employees to remain fully remote. However, some employers may ask employees to return to the office full-time.

If your contract lists a specific location where you are expected to work (for example, the address of the office building), then the employer has a right to ask you to return to the office and work from there.

The government is currently developing new legislation that will give workers the right to request a remote or hybrid arrangement in work, but it will take time for this to become law.

Do I still have to wear a face mask?

It is no longer mandatory to wear a face mask in public in Ireland, except in healthcare settings.

It is recommended that you wear a mask if you are:

• At higher risk from COVID-19 in indoor or outdoor crowded places
• Visiting a healthcare setting
• Visiting someone at higher risk of COVID-19

Can I travel?

There are currently no limits on travelling within Ireland. If you wish to travel overseas, there are certain measures in place.

Can I go abroad?

The rules and restrictions in place surrounding travel abroad can change depending on the current case numbers in different areas or the emergence of new variants. It’s important to keep up to date with the latest measures if you are planning on travelling abroad.

Find out about the current measures in place for travelling here.