The European Medicines Agency has backed two separate Covid-19 vaccine boosters updated to target the Omicron variant and developed by Moderna and the team of Pfizer and BioNTech.
Europe is preparing to roll out shots ahead of an anticipated rise in infections this winter.
The new so-called bivalent shots combat the BA.1 version of Omicron and the original virus first detected in China.
The recommendations are for people aged 12 years and above who have received at least a primary vaccination against Covid-19, the EMA said.
The final go-ahead will be subject to European Commission approval, which should happen quickly.
Britain in August became the first country to clear the Moderna bivalent shot. Switzerland and Australia quickly followed suit.
The latest EMA recommendations come as Pfizer's booster retooled to target the currently dominant BA.4/BA.5 variants along with the original coronavirus strain has already been submitted for EU review, while Moderna's submission is imminent.
It comes as the Health Service Executive urged healthcare workers and people aged between 12-49 with long-term health conditions to make an appointment for their second Covid-19 booster dosey.
Those who have long-term health conditions, for example diabetes, asthma or heart disease should now come forward for their second Covid-19 booster vaccine, the Health Service Executive has said.
People can book an appointment for a HSE vaccination clinic online or check with participating GPs and pharmacies.
Those aged over 50, or pregnant for more than 16 weeks, are also invited to book their next booster.
Appointments are available from today and information on eligibility is available on the HSE website.
HSE Chief Clinical Officer Dr Colm Henry said people with long-term health conditions are at greater risk from serious illness from Covid-19.
"Getting a second booster vaccine now will help protect these people, particularly as we come in to the autumn," Dr Henry said.
"We know immunity from Covid-19 vaccination and previous Covid-19 infection decreases over time so getting your booster when it's due will give you the best protection from serious illness, and increase immunity against infection from Covid-19," he added.
Meanwhile, the HSE and Children's Health Ireland will shortly be inviting, through their parents, children aged 5-11 years who are immunocompromised and now due to have their first booster, following completion of their primary Covid-19 vaccine course.
The HSE also "strongly urges" those who have not yet received a primary Covid-19 vaccine to consider attending a walk-in clinic or register for an appointment.
