Relocation Guide to Ireland

Before You Arrive

Immigration & Residency

Before relocating to Ireland, ensure you have the appropriate immigration permission:

• EU/EEA Citizens: No visa required. Register with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) after 3 months.
• Non-EU Citizens: Requires appropriate visa (Employment, Investment, Study, or Family).
• Critical Skills Employment Visa: For highly skilled professionals in demand sectors.
• Investment Immigration Programme (IIP): For individuals investing in Ireland.

Essential Documents

Prepare these documents before arrival:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Entry visa (if required)
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance documentation
• Educational certificates (authenticated/apostilled)
• Employment contract or business registration

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Upon Arrival

First Steps (First Week)

• Register with local Garda Station if staying over 90 days (non-EU)
• Open Irish bank account
• Get Irish mobile phone number
• Register for Revenue Commissioners (tax number)
• Apply for Personal Public Service Number (PPSN)

Banking in Ireland

Major Irish banks include:

• AIB (Allied Irish Bank)
• Bank of Ireland
• Ulster Bank
• Permanent TSB

Requirements: Proof of identity (passport), proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement), PPSN.

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Healthcare System

Health Insurance

Ireland has a dual public/private healthcare system:

• Medical Card: Free public healthcare (income-based eligibility)
• GP Visit Card: Free GP visits for certain groups
• Private Health Insurance: Available through VHI, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health

Finding a Doctor

GP (General Practitioner) is your first point of contact. Find a local GP near your residence and register as a patient.

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Education

School System

• Primary School: Ages 4-12 (Free in public schools)
• Secondary School: Ages 12-18 (Free in public schools)
• Third Level: Universities and colleges (fees vary)

Enrolling Your Child

Contact local schools directly. Application timelines vary - some schools have waiting lists. Start the process early.

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Daily Life

Cost of Living (Dublin - Higher)

• Rent (1-bedroom apartment): €1,200 - €2,000/month
• Utilities: €150 - €250/month
• Groceries: €300 - €500/month
• Public Transport: €100 - €130/month (Leap Card)

Getting Around

• Public Transport: Dublin Bus, Luas (tram), DART, Bus Éireann
• Driving: International driving permit accepted initially; exchange for Irish license within 1 year
• Cycling: Dublin has expanding cycling infrastructure

Utilities & Services

• Electricity/Gas: ESB Networks, Electric Ireland, Bord Gáis
• Internet: Eir, Virgin Media, Sky, Pure Telecom
• TV License: Required for any TV usage (€160/year)

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Key Contacts

• Immigration Service Delivery: isd.gov.ie
• Citizens Information: citizensinformation.ie
• Revenue Commissioners: revenue.ie
• Department of Social Protection: welfare.ie