Safety and security

Political Situation

There are currently protests and demonstrations ongoing across Eswatini that have resulted in significant damage and loss of life. There are reports of roadblocks, looting and violence mainly targeted at government buildings. We would advise limiting travel plans to essential travel only.

Irish citizens in Eswatini should stay at home where possible and avoid protests, demonstrations, or marches. The Government of Eswatini has announced a nationwide curfew from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. until further notice. Flights operations out of KMIII International Airport have been suspended. Access to internet, telecommunications and certain social media platforms may be suspended. You should monitor local and social media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.

We further advise all Irish citizens in Eswatini to stay in touch with other EU citizens where possible and also to get in touch with the EU Delegation to ensure that you are updated on the current situation.

Delegation of the European Union to Eswatini

Phone number: Telephone: +268 2404 2018 / 4769 /2908 / 0191.

Email: delegation-swaziland@eeas.europa.eu.

Embassy Contact

We do not have an Embassy in Eswatini, please contact Embassy of Ireland Mozambique.

Embassy of Ireland
Avenida Julius Nyerere 3630
Maputo
Mozambique

Tel: +258 21 501 700

Monday to Thursday, 08:00 – 16:30; Friday, 08:00 – 13:00

Contact us

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Health

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Vaccinations

Check what vaccinations you may need for your trip at least eight weeks before you travel. We can’t advise you on vaccinations, but you can get information about vaccinations from your local GP or an International Health and Travel Centre.

Evidence of vaccination (in the form of a certificate) can be a requirement for entry to some countries.

Medication

Make sure you bring enough medication for your entire trip and for any unexpected delays. You may wish to also bring copies of your prescription in case you lose your medication.

Additional information

If you are unsure about the entry requirements for Eswatini, including visa and other immigration information, ask your travel agent or contact the Embassy of Swaziland in London.

You can also check with them how long your passport must be valid for.

Passports

It’s advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you when travelling to Eswatini and you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times during your stay.

If your passport is lost or stolen while you’re abroad, we can help.

What we can do:

• Issue you a replacement passport that will let you finish your trip, or;
• Issue you with an emergency travel document to get you home.

We’ll do our best to help you as quickly as possible but this can take some time. Your location and circumstances may limit the help we can give you. As Ireland does not have an Embassy or Consulate in Eswatini there may be additional complications in processing and application for a new passport.

You should contact the Irish Embassy in Pretoria to find out what you need to do to apply for a passport. They will also be able to advise you on the fees which apply.