In 2026, passport control still exists between the Republic of Ireland and the rest of the European Union. While Ireland is a full member of the EU, it is not part of the Schengen Area, which allows for border-free travel across much of the continent. Instead, Ireland maintains its own border controls to manage its "Common Travel Area" with the UK. This means that even if you are an EU citizen, you must present a valid passport or national ID card when flying or taking a ferry between Ireland and mainland Europe. For non-EU citizens, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), launching in late 2026, will apply to Schengen countries but not to Ireland; travelers may still need separate visas or authorizations to visit both regions. Additionally, many Schengen countries have recently extended "temporary" spot checks at their internal borders through mid-2026 due to security concerns, so travelers should expect potential delays and carry their passports even on previously "open" routes.