Why Moving to Ireland Is a Good Idea
Ireland offers a lower cost of living than the US, uses the Euro currency (no exchange needed from the Eurozone), and post-Brexit has become even more attractive for EU residents. Here are the top six reasons:
- High Standard of Living — In the EU, Ireland ranks 13th and outperforms other OECD countries on metrics such as jobs, education, safety and social connections.
- Ease of Doing Business — Ireland is one of the easiest places in the EU to do business. Free market and low taxes make it simple to set up a business. Ireland currently ranks 24th in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Index.
- Great Culture and History — As the only independent country in the world with a Celtic language (Gaeilge) as an official language, Ireland stands out with its own strong identity.
- Hearty Food — From shepherd's pie to seafood chowder and the national dish of Irish Stew, Irish cuisine is very filling and homely.
- Welcoming People — The Irish are renowned for their cheery and friendly attitude, making it a great place to integrate into.
- Beautiful Countryside — The majority of the country is rural and offers amazing sights, plus gorgeous coastlines as an island country.
Do I Need a Visa to Live in Ireland?
In most cases, unless you are from a country that does not require a visa to visit Ireland, you will be able to come and stay for up to 90 days without a visa. However, it can be a different story if you want to live and work.
Irish Visa Types
| Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Short Stay 'C' Visa | 3 months | €60 |
| Work 'D' Visa | 5 years | €100 |
| Study 'D' Visa | 5 years | €100 |
| Transit Visa | Varies | €25 |
EU/EEA Citizens
If you are a citizen of the EU or of an EEA/EFTA country, you do not need a visa to work or live in Ireland. Since Ireland is in the EU, it participates in the free movement of people, so as an EU citizen you automatically have the right to come and live in Ireland without restrictions.
Moving to Ireland From the UK
The UK and Ireland have long been part of the Common Travel Area (CTA) which predates the European Union. The CTA allows freedom of movement for citizens of the UK, the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands and the Republic of Ireland.
Rights include the ability to move and settle, work without visa restrictions, and vote in elections. The CTA is still in force, so UK citizens can still enjoy the same rights in Ireland even after Brexit.
Planning your move? Check out our shipping guide!
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Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.
Where to Live in Ireland?
Ireland has the best of both worlds with vibrant cities and quiet countryside.
Moving to Dublin
Dublin is the capital city and famous for its easy-going vibe. It offers everything that a modern city provides without being ostentatious, making it a very easy city to call home with liveable noise levels. Find out about renting in Dublin!
Moving to Cork
Cork is another vibrant city in the south of Ireland with great opportunities and a safe environment for students and expats. Cork has great access to the internet and is well-developed for healthcare and other essentials. Find out about renting in Cork!
For a broader overview, check out our guide to the best places to live in Ireland.
Can I Work in Ireland?
If you are from the EU or EFTA, you will not need a visa to work. You do need to make sure you have your passport or identity card to prove your right to work in Ireland.
If you are not from an EU or EFTA country, you will need to apply for an Irish Work Visa (a long-term visa allowing you to stay for up to 5 years). You will need:
- Your passport
- A job offer
- Copy of your immigration stamp (if applicable)
- Contact details
You should also make sure that the company you are applying to has not been able to find an Irish or European citizen with the same skills beforehand.
Need Help Setting Up Your New Home?
Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.
How Can I Study in Ireland?
If you are from the EU or an EFTA country, you can go through the Erasmus+ programme which offers grants to students who need help with living costs.
If you are from outside Europe, you will need a student visa. You must be studying on a full-time basis and have a letter of place offer at a university. If you do not usually require a visa to enter Ireland, you do not need a student visa to study.
Concerned about costs? Read our guide to student costs in Ireland.