BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Emaswati will soon be required to obtain a visa when travelling to the Republic of Ireland.
This development will be effective from March 10, 2025. According to a statement issued by Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo, the visa will be required to Emaswati who will need to travel to Ireland and those who will transit through the European country.
Emaswati are advised to visit the Irish Immigration Service Delivery website at https://irishimmigration.ie. This website will give detailed guidance on how to apply for visa.
The Republic of Ireland has also prepared limited arrangements for those who have urgent travelling needs. These needs may include medical attention, business undertakings, education, urgent family gatherings and other events.
Those affected will have to email evidence supporting the above claims to becomingvisarequired@justice.ie. The email should be titled ‘Visa Required – Emergency Travel Requested.’
Nxumalo assured Emaswati that Eswatini Government was committed in ensuring strong and sustainable diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of Ireland.
He said the current administration was actively engaged with the Irish Government to minimise inconveniences that could be encountered by Emaswati while travelling to Ireland.
Eswatini Government notes that the engagements should be done while adhering to the immigration laws of Ireland. Nxumalo advised Emaswati to plan ahead when travelling to Ireland.
He also emphasised on the importance of staying informed, while also adhering to the stipulated requirements when applying. Nxumalo also advised Emaswati to always have the necessary documentation if necessary.
Nxumalo mentioned that if Emaswati needed further assistance, they should not hesitate to contact the Irish Embassy in Maputo, through the following officers:
Vusi Dlamini (First Secretary: Information): +268 7612 2833.
Nomvelo Mkhonta (First Secretary: Political): +268 7669 2991.
Nxumalo said while the discussion ongoing between the two countries are meant to minimise travel inconveniences, he advised Emaswati to be well informed before travelling to the European country.
