Here’s something most Irish people don’t think twice about: that little burgundy passport sitting in the kitchen drawer, usually beside a half-used book of stamps and a biro that barely works. What if I told you it’s one of the most valuable things you own?
Not in a sentimental way. Literally.
As of 2025, the Irish passport ranks in the world’s top 5 most powerful passports. That means it gives you access to over 190 countries without needing a visa or with just a visa on arrival. No long forms. No awkward interviews at embassies. No “what is the purpose of your visit?” in a tone that makes you question your entire existence.
It’s one of those things we’ve just kind of taken for granted. But in a world that’s getting harder to travel through – with more walls, more rules, and more red tape – the Irish passport is like a golden ticket, and more people are starting to notice.
How did we end up with such a good passport?
It comes down to a few things:
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Neutrality: Ireland has a reputation for staying out of wars, big political alliances, and general world drama. We’re the quiet ones in the corner who just want to get on with it – and that makes us a lot more welcome in a lot more places.
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EU membership: This is a huge one. Irish passport holders have the right to live and work in any EU country. That’s 27 countries without needing a visa, a permit, or an explanation.
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Common Travel Area: We also have a long-standing arrangement with the UK that lets us live and work there as well. No Brexit issues. No visa nonsense. Just business as usual.
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Good reputation: Let’s be honest – the Irish are generally seen as sound. We’re not perfect, but we don’t tend to start trouble internationally, and that makes a difference.
Everyone else seems to want one too
Since Brexit, there’s been a massive surge in people applying for Irish passports – especially from people in Northern Ireland and Britain. In fact, more Irish passports were issued in the last five years than at any other time in history.
Some are digging into their family history to find an Irish grandparent, just so they can get one. And fair play to them. If your granny’s from Leitrim, you might just get a lifetime of travel freedom out of it.
There’s even stories of people in far-flung corners of the world – Argentina, Australia, South Africa – who’ve suddenly realised they’ve Irish roots and are applying. Because this isn’t just a bit of paper with a harp on it, it’s access. Opportunity. A bit of magic, if we’re being honest.
So, what does it actually give you?
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Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190+ countries
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The legal right to live and work anywhere in the EU
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Full access to the UK under the Common Travel Area
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Entry to countries like Japan, Canada, Australia, the US, and more – often with less hassle
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And maybe the most underrated thing of all: you’re carrying a passport that people don’t give you grief over
Irish travellers don’t get the same side-eye some others do at borders. We smile, say “thanks a million”, and move along. No drama.
Worth more than gold?
At this stage, it’s fair to say the Irish passport is more than just a travel document. It’s a get-out-of-jail-free card, a doorway to the world, and in the right hands, it can change a life.
If you have one – value it.
If you’re eligible – apply.
If your granny’s from Kerry – start looking for the baptismal cert.
In a world full of walls, the Irish passport is still one of the few keys that open almost every door.
Back in 2014 I published a post about the most powerful passports and the Irish one was ranked in 4th place so we have made quite an improvement since then!