Ryanair Refund Policy: How to Get Your Money Back Easily

Discover Ryanair refund policy, eligibility rules, and how to claim your refund. Learn alternative options if you're not eligible. Read our complete guide now!

Travel Mar 31, 2025 20 Add to Reading List

Ryanair Refund Policy: How to Get Your Money Back Easily

Ryanair, one of the most prominent low-cost airlines in Europe, offers budget-friendly flights to numerous destinations. However, travelers often encounter challenges when seeking a Ryanair refund due to the airline's strict policies. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Ryanair refund policy, ensuring you understand when and how you can claim a refund.

Understanding Ryanair's No-Refund Policy

Ryanair has a general no-refund policy on most ticket purchases. This means that once you book a flight, you cannot typically get a refund unless specific circumstances apply. However, there are exceptions where passengers may be eligible for a Ryanair refund.

Situations Where You May Be Eligible for a Refund

While refunds are not standard, Ryanair provides some flexibility in the following situations:

1. Flight Cancellations by Ryanair

If Ryanair cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund. You can request your refund through the airline’s website or choose to rebook your flight at no extra cost.

2. Schedule Changes by Ryanair

If Ryanair changes your flight schedule significantly (e.g., more than 5 hours difference), you have the right to a refund. You can either accept the new schedule or opt for a full Ryanair refund.

3. Medical Emergencies and Bereavement

Passengers who experience severe illness or the death of an immediate family member may be eligible for a refund. Ryanair requires supporting documentation such as medical certificates or death certificates to process these refund requests.

4. Duplicate Bookings

If you accidentally book the same flight twice using the same passenger details, Ryanair may issue a refund upon verification.

How to Request a Ryanair Refund

If you qualify for a refund under Ryanair refund policy, follow these steps to initiate your request:

Step 1: Visit the Ryanair Website

Navigate to the official Ryanair website and log into your account.

Step 2: Access the Refund Request Form

Under the “Help” section, locate and fill out the refund request form with accurate details about your booking and the reason for your refund claim.

Step 3: Attach Required Documentation

If you are claiming a refund due to medical emergencies or bereavement, attach the necessary documents to support your claim.

Step 4: Submit Your Request

After submitting your request, Ryanair will process it within 7-14 business days. Refunds are typically issued to the original payment method.

Alternative Options If You Are Not Eligible for a Refund

1. Change Your Flight

If you cannot obtain a Ryanair refund, you may opt to change your flight for a fee. Ryanair allows passengers to modify their bookings up to 2.5 hours before departure.

2. Claim Compensation Under EU261 Regulation

If your flight was canceled or delayed for more than three hours due to Ryanair’s fault, you might be entitled to compensation under EU261 regulation. This can range from €250 to €600, depending on the flight distance.

3. Travel Insurance Claims

If you have travel insurance, check Ryanair cancellation policy and apply for a refund through your insurer.

Conclusion

While Ryanair operates under a strict no-refund policy, certain situations allow passengers to claim a refund. Understanding these policies ensures you are well-prepared in case of cancellations, significant schedule changes, or personal emergencies. If a Ryanair refund is not possible, alternative solutions such as flight changes, EU261 compensation claims, or travel insurance refunds can help mitigate your losses.