Known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland is a beautiful place to live and work. Whether you’re moving to Ireland from the UK, Europe, or travelling from further afield, the island has much to offer. However, Ireland has a strong cultural identity that you will feel even if you’re moving from a nearby country. Therefore, moving to Ireland require planning and organisation. Here you will find information about Ireland, the moving process and the way of life you’ll discover on arrival. You will also find extensive information on the JustLanded website; it is an excellent reference to prepare for your everyday life in Ireland.

Moving to Ireland: About Ireland

Ireland gets its nickname from its stunning green landscape; It offers residents the chance to escape from the city and breathe in some fresh air. Whether you live in the buzzing Dublin or the relaxing and rural Dingle, the Irish countryside is never far away.

Part of the EU, the Irish economy is bouncing back after enduring a tough time during the recession. Ireland uses the euro as its currency.

The climate in Ireland is typically north Atlantic European: mild and unreliable summers, cold but not freezing winters.

Moving to Ireland: Language

The official language of Ireland is Irish. Also known as Gaelic, it is on the decline. In most cases, people will use English, the second official language. Gaelic is a dying language, and there have been many attempts to try and revive interest. Around one in three people understand Gaelic, but only about 5% speak it. Some radio stations and TV shows broadcast in Irish. There are also Irish print publications. However, these are the exception rather than the norm with most entertainment in English.

There are still a few small pockets within Ireland where people only speak Gaelic; English speakers will find it difficult to communicate. These are easy to identify upon entering and not part of any of the main cities.

Moving to Ireland: Healthcare

Ireland enjoys an excellent healthcare system and offers a mixture of free and paid-for services to its residents. Anyone arriving from an EEA country, or Switzerland has the right to the same medical cover as an Irish national. In other words, a combination of free, subsidised and paid-for services, depending on your level of income.

Individuals who are from the EEA and on an income below a threshold will qualify for a medical card. This card provides healthcare services free of charge. There are different types of medical card, such as a GP card, and eligibility criteria differ.

Those arriving from outside the EEA will have to pay for most healthcare services. It is possible to take out private healthcare cover to help pay for these costs.

In addition to the state healthcare system, there is also a network of private providers. These will have to be paid for in full by the individual or covered by a private healthcare scheme.

Moving to Ireland: Transport

Ireland has a decent public transport system with both trains and buses available that cover all around the country. However, despite this availability, public transport can be a complicated way to travel around Ireland; Particularly if you’re planning on visiting some of the more rural areas. A LEAP card will make using public transport in some cities easier.

Outside the main towns and cities, it’s challenging to get around without a car. Buses may or may not show up; Traffic jams are a fixture.

Cycling is encouraged, and it’s a very accessible way to enjoy the best of the countryside. However, now, the infrastructure isn’t really in place to support this. There are only a few cycle routes. The roads can be challenging to navigate, especially those in the countryside which are likely to be narrow, winding and potentially dotted with potholes.

Moving to Ireland: Visa Requirements

The visa requirements for Ireland depend on where from you’re travelling. If you’re moving to Ireland from the UK, you won’t need any permits or visas to live or work. You will still need a valid passport for entry.

Ireland is part of the EU. As such, fellow EU citizens enjoy very similar rights to migrants from the UK. Other than a very few narrow limitations, EU nationals and the Swiss can live and work in Ireland without any special permit or authorisation. They may also bring their family with them.

Individuals who travel from further afield may require a visa may for entry. They will also need a permit to work. There are many different types of work permit available, some of which allow your family to come with you. If you don’t plan on working, you can still move to Ireland, but there are special rules which you must satisfy to demonstrate you are financially secure.

Moving to Ireland: Northern Ireland

Ireland is an island, but it’s one who remains under a divided rule. The Republic of Ireland, often referred to as the south – or just Ireland – is independent. It is a member of the EU and uses the euro as its currency.

In stark contrast, Northern Ireland is a part of the UK and has strong parliamentary links with Westminster. Northern Ireland comes under the umbrella of the UK; its currency is the Sterling and is part of the EU because the UK is. Brexit will change that.

In the past, this split caused infighting and violence, but the peace process has been a success and it’s now a safe place to live. The European Commission funds lots of cross-border projects every year, with Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland working together to promote unity.

There are some practical considerations, however, particularly if you plan to live on one side and work on the other. Aside from the currency differences, there are different taxation agreements, and it can become quite complicated. We also have a page dedicated to moving to Northern Ireland.

Despite these contrasts, the border between the two nations is open, and there are no physical barriers preventing individuals from moving between the two. You will find a dedicated page here if you’re planning on moving to Northern Ireland

Moving to Ireland: Removals to Ireland

Being part of the EU, if you’re moving from an EEA country, the customs process is relatively easy and straightforward provided you avoid bringing any prohibited items.

If you’re moving to Ireland from further afield, such as the US, you’ll need to fill in a bit more paperwork, but the customs process is still quite simple compared to some other countries. When you’re deciding what items to bring, bear in mind that Ireland will have a different electrical system and, in some cases, it may be easier to purchase an Irish replacement upon arrival.

It’s possible to take your car to Ireland, but you must have owned it for at least six months and will need to register it when you arrive.

Whether you choose our Load & Go or our EasyMoves solution, European Moving can help you with your removal. We shall be able to help you with the full list of restrictions that apply to removals to Ireland and also provide advice on a whole range of removal issues you may not have encountered before.