Basotho travelling to Ireland

REQUIREMENTS

  • With effect from 10 March 2025, nationals of Lesotho will be required to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland. A transit visa will also be required, if intending to transit through Ireland en route to another destination.

    Nationals of these countries who made travel plans before 10 March 2025 and can provide evidence of a valid booking and payment for the trip, may be accommodated for emergency travel in the following situations where the scheduled travel is on or before 31 March 2025:

    A critical medical case involving a family member being seriously ill or undergoing medical treatment. Evidence from the relevant medical institution must be provided.

    Visiting for a significant family event – a birth, wedding, or funeral. Suitable evidence must be provided.

    Taking up a place obtained in a third-level institution on an undergraduate or post-graduate degree course. Evidence must be provided from the relevant institution.

    Taking up employment and holding an Employment Permit for Ireland. Evidence of the permit issued by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment must be provided.

    Travelling for business. Confirmation of the arrangements for the visit from the business in question must be provided.

    Persons falling within the above categories are asked to email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject line “Visa Required – Emergency Travel Requested”.

However the following basic requirements should be noted:

  • You should at least possess an invitation letter from the person who is hosting you in Ireland as well as his address and contact details
  • Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months
  • Notify Lesotho Embassy in Dublin upon your arrival in Ireland
  • If you are travelling to Ireland through the United Kingdom, you need to have a British transit visa. Also if you are travelling to Northern Ireland, you should apply for the British visa.

Emergency numbers while on transit:

Embasssy of Lesotho, Dublin +353-1-6762233

Lesotho High Commission - Pretoria +27 124607648 

Lesotho Consulate-General - Johannesburg +27 113393653

Lesotho High Commission - London +44 2072355686

Lesotho Embassy - Berlin +49 302575720