EU AI Act FAQ
When does the EU AI Act come into force in Ireland?
Quick answer
The EU AI Act entered into force on 1 August 2024 and applies in stages. General application began on 2 August 2026, with earlier and later provisions. Following the Omnibus's entry into force on 27 July 2026, Annex III high-risk rules apply from 2 December 2027 and Annex I product-related rules from 2 August 2028.
Entry into force and application are different
Entry into force made the regulation part of EU law. Application dates determine when particular requirements operate. Original prohibited practices and literacy provisions began applying in February 2025. Governance and general-purpose model provisions followed in August 2025. General-purpose models and systems already on the market can have specific transition arrangements. Article 50 has its own scope and transitions, so avoid treating one date as the answer for every AI use.
Apply the timetable to your organisation
Identify the relevant provision, your role and the system's history. A purchaser's duties can differ from those of a provider, and a substantial modification can change the position. Ireland's AI Office now describes itself as established under the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Act 2026. Use current national guidance for the authority involved and the Commission's current timeline for the EU framework. Record any case-specific legal interpretation alongside the date used.
Reviewed 4 October 2026. Sources: Commission AI Act overview and timetable, classification, deployer duties, literacy guidance and AI Office of Ireland.
See how Acuity AI approaches EU AI Act readiness for Irish organisations under the current framework. See our Ireland EU AI Act services.