Ireland - Customs

Length of Stay:

Temporary Admission of a non-EU vessel including spare parts for minor repairs or servicing is allowed without formality by a person established outside the EU for a maximum period of 18 months provided it is for private use. Sail Boats and associated equipment may be imported temporarily for sports events. You will be required to report to Customs to complete any paperwork. More details at Irish Tax and Customs.

EU regulations apply concerning temporary importation of yachts. See EU VAT page for more information.

Other Items:

Boats from non-EU countries, or EU boats arriving from a non-EU country, must notify Customs, whether having dutiable stores on board or not.

Firearms must be declared. The importation of firearms and ammunition is prohibited unless a licence is granted by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Excess dutiable stores (i.e. those purchased outside the EU) will be placed under Customs seal on arrival; these, and stores shipped from bond must not be consumed in port without prior permission from Customs and on payment of duty. They may be used while cruising Irish waters but duty must then be paid on the quantity consumed in the subsequent port. Yachts laid up or remaining longer must pay all duty owed on dutiable stores, or deposit the stores in a State Warehouse, or have them sealed on board, in which case a bond must be given by the captain or owner.

There are restrictions on the import of meat and meat products, poultry and poultry products, plants and plant products including vegetables, hay or straw.

Last updated:  March 2022