UK-Ireland ferry passengers must carry passport from September 28

Passengers travelling by ferry between the UK and Ireland must now carry a passport, effective from Monday, September 28. The change affects key routes including Dublin-Holyhead and Rosslare-Pembroke. Irish Ferries and Stena Line confirm all passengers, including British and Irish citizens, must present a valid passport at check-in. Driving licences, national identity cards and other forms of photo ID are no longer accepted. The requirement applies regardless of age or nationality, and passport cards are accepted by both operators. Bus passes, work ID cards and student cards cannot be used instead of a passport. The change has been introduced to comply with UK Border Force requirements relating to the accuracy and integrity of passenger data before boarding. For UAE travellers, the key takeaway is to carry your passport and check both Irish and UK entry requirements if your itinerary includes both countries.