British and Irish Lions Travel Advice

Australia will be hosting the British and Irish Lions this year, with matches taking place across the country.

If you will be following the adventures of the team, follow these steps to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable holiday:

Embrace your inner Lion - travel brave, proud and well-organised! Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity before you travel. If you need to renew yours, jump online and visit: ireland.ie/passportonline

Getting permission to enter Australia before you travel is necessary, and generally straight forward.

Irish citizens can usually apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). These are issued by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

There is no application charge, but a service fee of $20 (AUD) may apply.

ETA processing times can vary, so apply for your Australian visa well in advance of your travel date.

Information on all other types of visas is available at: homeaffairs.gov.au

It’s a game of two halves. We do passports, they do visas. The Embassy of Ireland in Canberra or the Consulate of Ireland in Sydney cannot assist with Australian visas.

It’s always worth having a back up plan.

Be sure to purchase travel insurance for the duration of your trip - you never know when you may need it!

Australians like to have a good time and Irish people are welcome for our good humour and sociable nature.

However, Australians also have a very strict approach to public order and behaviour, so be mindful of this when out and about.

Australia is also very strict on what you can and can’t bring into the country – no shamrocks for good luck unfortunately! For what you can bring, check the Australian Border Force website.

You can drive in Australia using your Irish driving licence as long as you remain a temporary overseas visitor.

You must carry your driving licence and passport when driving and make sure you have sufficient motor insurance.

Driving laws and regulations differ in each state/territory. Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is illegal and the penalties are severe.

If you are resident in Ireland (not including Northern Ireland), you can access Australia’s public health care system in case of emergency, but only if you have the following:

• Irish passport
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with the initials IE.

The Embassy and Consulate can provide the following support:

• Issue emergency travel documents if you lose your passport.
• Provide support if you have been arrested or hospitalised.
• Get in touch with your family or friendson your behalf.
• Provide details of local lawyers if you need one on your behalf.

We cannot provide funds, legal advice or medical advice.