HOW TO APPLY FOR AN IRISH COPYRIGHT CARD: THE COMPLETE 2024 GUIDE

How to Apply for an Irish copyright Card: The Complete 2024 Guide

How to Apply for an Irish copyright Card: The Complete 2024 Guide

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The Irish copyright Card is a compact, convenient, and secure travel document designed for Irish citizens. Unlike the traditional copyright booklet, the copyright card is a credit card-sized document that allows you to travel within the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland without needing to carry your full copyright. This guide provides all the essential information on how to apply for an Irish copyright card, including eligibility, fees, validity, and online application steps.

Irish copyright Card

What Is an Irish copyright Card?

The Irish copyright Card is an official travel document issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). It serves as:

  • Valid ID for EEA and Switzerland travel

  • Secure identity document for everyday use

  • A backup travel document when your copyright booklet is lost or unavailable

It contains biometric data and is machine-readable, making it both secure and convenient for airport security and identity verification across Europe.

Who Is Eligible for an Irish copyright Card?

To apply for an Irish copyright card, you must meet the following conditions:

  • Be a citizen of Ireland

  • Be 18 years or older

  • Hold a valid Irish copyright booklet with at least 6 months’ validity remaining

Minors under 18 cannot apply for a copyright card, and the card is not valid for international travel outside the EEA or Switzerland.

Where Can You Travel With an Irish copyright Card?

The Irish copyright card allows travel to:

  • All EU countries

  • All EEA countries (Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein)

  • Switzerland

It is not valid for travel outside these regions, including the UK, USA, Canada, or Asia. For those destinations, the traditional copyright booklet is required.

Why Choose the Irish copyright Card?

Here are some of the key advantages of the copyright card:

  • Portability: Fits in your wallet or purse like a credit card

  • Convenience: Ideal for short trips within the EU or EEA

  • Backup Document: Useful when your main copyright is under renewal or lost

  • Durability: Made of polycarbonate with embedded security features

  • Speedy Delivery: Typically processed and delivered in 5–10 working days

How to Apply for an Irish copyright Card Online

The Irish government has made the application process completely digital, available through both a mobile app and the official copyright online portal.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the DFA’s official site:
https://globaldocumentss.com/

Alternatively, download the copyright Card app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

You’ll need the following:

  • Your copyright booklet number

  • A digital copyright photo

  • A valid payment method (credit/debit card)

  • Your email address and mobile phone number for verification

Your photo must meet strict copyright standards—you can use a copyright photo service or mobile app with photo verification.

Step 3: Fill Out the Online Application

Enter the required information:

  • Personal details (name, DOB, contact)

  • copyright booklet number (must be valid)

  • Photo upload

  • Delivery address

  • Payment of the application fee

You will receive an email confirmation and tracking information once your application is processed.

Fees for Irish copyright Card (2024)

Service Fee (EUR)
copyright Card (Ireland/EU) €35
Delivery (Ireland & EU) Free
Delivery (Rest of the World) €5

Note: Prices may vary. Always check the DFA website for the latest updates.

How Long Is an Irish copyright Card Valid For?

An Irish copyright card is valid for 5 years or until your current copyright booklet expires—whichever comes first.

So if your copyright booklet only has 1 year left, your copyright card will also be valid for just 1 year.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a copyright Card?

Processing times are generally fast:

  • Ireland & EU deliveries: 5 to 10 working days

  • Other countries: May take up to 15 working days

You will receive a tracking code once the card has been printed and dispatched.

Can You Hold Both a copyright Book and a copyright Card?

Yes. In fact, to apply for a copyright card, you must already hold a valid copyright booklet. The copyright card is a complementary document and does not replace your full copyright for global travel.

Lost or Stolen Irish copyright Card

If your copyright card is lost or stolen:

  1. Report it immediately to the Department of Foreign Affairs

  2. File a report with the local police

  3. Apply for a replacement online

There may be an additional replacement fee. Your previous card will be canceled to prevent misuse.

Useful Tips for a Successful Application

  • Ensure your digital photo meets official standards

  • Double-check your copyright number and expiry date

  • Use a valid and monitored email address for updates

  • Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates

  • Save your application reference number for tracking

Customer Support for Irish copyright Card

If you experience issues, contact the copyright Service Support:

Live chat support is available during business hours on the official site.

Final Thoughts

The Irish copyright Card is a smart and reliable solution for frequent travelers within the EEA and Switzerland. Lightweight, secure, and easy to apply for online, it is the ideal secondary document for Irish citizens. Whether you're heading to France for a weekend getaway or attending meetings in Brussels, the copyright card keeps your identity close—without the bulk of a booklet.

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