Irish Citizens Can Work in the UK Without Visa

The UK government has confirmed that Irish citizens can live and work in the United Kingdom without needing a visa or work permit, as per the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement. This long-standing arrangement includes the UK, Ireland, and the Crown Dependencies: the Bailiwick of Jersey, Bailiwick of Guernsey, and the Isle of Man.

Updated guidance effective January 1, 2026, outlines the rights of Irish and British citizens under the CTA. Irish citizens do not require permission to enter or remain in the UK, allowing them to work for companies or be self-employed without prior authorization.

They also have access to social welfare benefits, health services, education, and the right to vote in certain elections. However, this freedom of movement does not apply to Irish citizens under deportation orders or travel bans.

Family members without Irish or British citizenship must apply for a UK family visa. The CTA's framework was reinforced in May 2019 with a Memorandum of Understanding between the UK and Irish governments, ensuring the arrangement remains intact post-Brexit.