The 2021 FAI Cup was the 101st edition of the Republic of Ireland's primary national cup competition. This edition features teams from the League of Ireland Premier Division and the First Division, as well as non-league teams. The competition is to begin with qualifying on the week ending 11 July 2021.

The winners of the FAI Cup earns automatic qualification for the 2022–23 UEFA Europa Conference League.

The draw for the qualifying round took place on 14 June 2021.

A total of 18 teams were in the qualifying round draw. Six teams received byes into the first round of the competition: Bangor GG F.C., Malahide United, Liffey Wanderers, St. Kevin's Boys, Usher Celtic and College Corinthians.

The draw for the first round took place on 13 July 2021.

A total of 32 teams are in the first round draw: 20 teams from the Premier Division and First Division, six teams who received byes from the qualifying round and six winners of the qualifying round.

All ties were played the week ending Sunday 25 July 2021.

Teams in bold advanced to the second round.