Tools & Support Pages

Tools & Support

Our tools and support pages are designed to make relocation to Ireland more Organized, less stressful, and easier to manage. These resources help you stay on track, avoid common problems, and know where to turn when you need help.

You’ll find:

– Before-you-move checklists

– Arrival and first-week task lists

– First 30 days in Ireland checklist

– Work, banking, and healthcare setup guides

– All resources are simple, printable, and written in plain language to keep things clear and manageable.

Immigration Service Delivery

For additional details or official guidance, please refer to the Irish Immigration Service website.

Citizen Information

Citizens Information gives information to the newcomers to guide everyday settling in.

Irish Immigration Service

Crucial for non-EEA movers, but useful for everyone checking entry requirements.

Before you Move Checklist

  • Determine your visa/immigration status: EU/EEA/UK/Swiss citizens can move freely; non-EEA need a visa or permit (check irishimmigration.ie).
  • Apply for visa/permit if required (e.g., employment, study, join family). Secure employment offer or proof of funds (for non-work visas).
  • Research and budget for high cost of living (especially Dublin rent ~€2,000+/month for 1-bed).
  • Arrange initial accommodation (Airbnb/hotels for first weeks).
  • Gather documents: valid passport, birth/marriage certificates, qualifications, medical records.
  • Book flights and international health insurance. Notify tax authorities in home country; research double taxation.
  • Pack for rainy weather: waterproof clothing, adapters (Type G plugs).

Arrival Checklist

  • Enter Ireland and get passport stamped if needed.
  • Arrange airport transport (Dublin Bus Airlink, taxi, or pre-booked transfer).
  • Check into temporary housing. Buy a local SIM card (providers: Vodafone, Three, Eir).
  • Exchange currency or set up international transfers.
  • Rest and adjust to time zone.

First 30 Days in Ireland Checklist

  • Register immigration permission (IRP card) if non-EEA and staying >90 days (book online at irishimmigration.ie; €300 fee).
  • Apply for PPS Number (Personal Public Service Number) online via mywelfare.ie – essential for work, banking, services.
  • Open a Irish bank account (need PPSN, proof of address, ID).
  • Register with a GP (doctor) for healthcare.
  • Apply for medical card or private health insurance if eligible.
  • Secure long-term housing. Set up utilities (electricity/gas via Electric Ireland or Bord Gáis).

Housing & Renting Checklist

  • Search on Daft.ie or MyHome.ie (most popular platforms).
  • Prepare documents: references, proof of income/PPSN, photo ID.
  • View multiple properties (market is very competitive; apply quickly).
  • Check for scams (never pay deposit without viewing).
  • Understand lease: typical 1-year, 1-month deposit + 1-month rent in advance.
  • Inspect for damp/mold (common issue).

Work & Study Setup Checklist

  • Validate employment permit if non-EEA.
  • Get tax details: register for taxes via Revenue.ie.
  • Enroll in school/university if studying (apply for student visa if needed).
  • Update CV to Irish format (short, no photo).
  • Network via LinkedIn or recruitment sites.
  • Understand payslips and PAYE tax system.

Useful Apps & Websites

Transport & Navigation

  • TFI Go/Live (Transport for Ireland): Real-time schedules for buses, trains, trams; buy Leap Card tickets.
  • Irish Rail App: Train timetables and tickets.
  • Dublin Bus App: Real-time bus tracking (Dublin-focused).
  • Google Maps/Citymapper/Waze: Route planning.

Housing & Renting

  • Daft: Top rental/search site.
  • My Home: Property sales and rentals.
  • Rent: Additional listings.

Jobs & Careers

Banking & Budgeting

  • Revolut: Popular for newcomers (easy setup) and easy to transfer money from Ireland (EUR) to different currencies.
  • N26: Another popular app.
  • AIB/Bank of Ireland apps: Traditional banking.
  • Expense trackers: Built into banking apps.

Government & Public Services

New Comer tips

Newcomer Tips

  • Irish communication: Friendly but indirect (“craic” means fun); small talk is common, but people are reserved initially.
  • Workplaces: Punctual, hierarchical in some sectors; tea breaks are social; work-life balance is valued.
  • Making friends: Join clubs/sports (GAA Gaelic games), expat groups (Meetup.com), or volunteering.
  • Homesickness/culture shock: Weather is mild but rainy/gloomy; connect with home via calls; join immigrant communities.
  • Budgeting: High costs in cities; groceries ~€300-400/month per person; public transport cheaper with Leap Card.
  • Feel at home: Embrace pub culture (non-drinking options available), explore countryside, learn basic Irish phrases.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Delaying PPS Number: Apply immediately – needed for almost everything (work, bank, services).
  • Underestimating rental market: Extremely competitive (especially Dublin); start searching early, expect multiple applications/rejections. Accepting offers without verification: Check job contracts, housing for scams; use official sites.
  • Misunderstanding visa conditions: Overstaying or working without permission can lead to bans.
  • Not keeping document copies: Always have digital/physical backups of passport, visa, IRP.
  • Poor financial planning: Initial costs high (deposits, setup); budget for 3-6 months expenses.

Support & Helplines

For personalized advice, start with citizensinformation.ie or contact relevant organizations directly. Safe travels!

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