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Ireland Country Guide
Practical Information for Moving, Living & Settling in Ireland

Important: This Ireland guide provides essential information for families and professionals planning an international move, overseas relocation, or door-to-door shipping services to the Republic of Ireland. Ireland offers a dynamic economy, a strong technology and pharmaceutical sector, and a welcoming culture with deep ties to Canada. Immigration rules, residence permissions, and documentation requirements can change frequently — always verify details with official Irish government sources before finalising your plans.

Home To Home Relocations assists clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Ireland, including export packing, ocean and air shipment coordination, customs documentation, and final delivery to major Irish cities such as Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Kilkenny.

1. Before You Move to Ireland

1.1 Visas, Residence Permissions & Immigration System

Ireland’s immigration system is managed by Immigration Service Delivery (ISD). The rules that apply will depend on your nationality and your reason for moving (work, study, joining family, etc.). If you are not an EU, EEA, Swiss or UK national, you may require:

  • An entry visa (where required) to travel to Ireland
  • An appropriate residence permission for stays longer than 90 days
  • An Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card once you register in Ireland

You can explore options and official guidance through the Irish Immigration Service website: www.irishimmigration.ie.

Canadians can also check the visa section of the Embassy of Ireland in Canada for country-specific information: Visas for Ireland – Embassy of Ireland, Canada .

Tip: The Government of Ireland provides an overview of how the immigration system works and who is eligible to live and work in Ireland at gov.ie – How our immigration system works .

1.2 Working in Ireland

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss/UK nationals who plan to live and work in Ireland typically need both:

  • A valid employment permit (issued through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment)
  • A relevant entry visa and residence permission (managed by Irish Immigration Service Delivery)

The Government’s “Work in Ireland” page explains these requirements and links to application processes: gov.ie – Work in Ireland .

1.3 Studying in Ireland

Ireland is home to globally recognised universities and colleges. International students usually require a study visa and must show proof of funds, medical insurance, and acceptance into an approved programme. After arrival, non-EU/EEA/Swiss/UK students normally register with immigration and receive an IRP card indicating their permission to study and whether they can work part-time.

1.4 Housing & Accommodation

Housing costs vary considerably between Dublin and regional cities. Many newcomers choose short-term accommodation for the first 1–3 months while they search for a long-term rental. Landlords commonly request references, proof of employment or study, and a security deposit.

1.5 Banking, Finances & PPS Number

Ireland uses the Euro (EUR). A local bank account and a Personal Public Service (PPS) number are usually required for employment, paying tax, and accessing certain public services. You can find practical guidance on settling and public services at Citizens Information – Moving to Ireland .

1.6 Healthcare, Eligibility & the HSE

Public healthcare in Ireland is delivered by the Health Service Executive (HSE). Your entitlement depends mainly on whether you are considered ordinarily resident in Ireland and your income. People accepted as living in Ireland on a long-term basis may receive full or limited eligibility for public health services.

Useful official resources include:

Important: Private health insurance may still be recommended, especially while you are establishing residence or if you prefer faster access to non-urgent consultations and procedures.

1.7 Key Documents to Prepare Before Departure

  • Valid passport and (if required) Irish visa approval
  • Letters of employment, job offer, or university acceptance
  • Proof of qualifications and certified translations (where necessary)
  • Health insurance documentation
  • Birth and marriage certificates for family members relocating with you
  • Financial evidence (bank statements, proof of funds)

2. Your First Weeks in Ireland

2.1 Registration & Irish Residence Permit (IRP)

If you are from outside the EU/EEA/UK/Switzerland and staying longer than 90 days, you must usually register your immigration permission and obtain an IRP card after arrival. Registration is handled by Immigration Service Delivery or local Garda immigration offices, depending on where you live.

For detailed, official instructions see:

2.2 PPS Number & Tax

Most workers and many residents will need a PPS number for employment, tax, social welfare, and certain public services. You can find information on applying for a PPS number and starting life in Ireland on Citizens Information.

2.3 Healthcare, GPs & Emergency Numbers

Once you have a fixed address, register with a local GP (family doctor). For urgent medical help, you can contact emergency services by dialling 112 or 999.

The HSE’s website helps you find local services:

3. Ireland at a Glance

3.1 Country & Regions

The Republic of Ireland occupies most of the island of Ireland and is divided into counties and regions, each with its own distinct character. Dublin is the capital and largest city, with other important urban centres in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.

3.2 Politics & Economy

Ireland is a parliamentary democracy and an EU member state. The economy is highly international, with strong technology, financial services, pharmaceutical, and medical devices sectors. Many global companies base their European headquarters in Dublin and other Irish cities.

3.3 Climate & Weather

Ireland has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters, cool summers, and frequent rain. Weather conditions can change quickly, so layered clothing and waterproof outerwear are useful year-round.

4. Why Many Canadians Choose Ireland

  • English-speaking, with strong cultural and historical ties to Canada
  • Vibrant, internationally focused job market in technology, finance and life sciences
  • EU membership and convenient access to the rest of Europe
  • Friendly, community-oriented culture and active Irish-Canadian connections
  • Excellent music, food, sports and outdoor activities

5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life

Rental markets in Dublin and certain regional hubs can be competitive. It is common to attend group viewings and to provide references and documentation quickly if you are interested in a property. In addition to rent, factor in:

  • Utilities (electricity, heating, internet)
  • TV licence and mobile phone costs
  • Grocery and transport expenses
  • Private health insurance if you choose it

Citizens Information offers practical guidance on living, working and accessing services in Ireland, including social welfare and family supports: www.citizensinformation.ie.

6. Transportation & Getting Around

6.1 Public Transport

Ireland has extensive bus, rail and light-rail networks, especially around Dublin and the main cities. Transport for Ireland (TFI) provides national travel information and tools to plan journeys by bus, train, tram and more:

6.2 Trains & Inter-City Travel

Inter-city train services are operated by Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail), connecting Dublin with major regional cities and towns:

6.3 Driving in Ireland

In Ireland, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. Depending on your nationality and licence, you may be able to drive on your existing licence for a limited period or exchange it for an Irish licence. The Department of Transport website provides high-level information and links to relevant agencies: gov.ie – Department of Transport.

7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit

7.1 Everyday Culture

  • Irish people value friendliness, conversation and community connections
  • There is strong emphasis on music, sport (especially Gaelic games, rugby and soccer) and social life
  • Work–life balance and family time are important to many residents

7.2 Major Cities & Highlights

  • Dublin: Capital city with major employers, universities, historic sites and cultural venues
  • Cork: Port city with a strong food scene and access to coastal landscapes
  • Galway: Arts and festival hub on the west coast, close to Connemara and the Wild Atlantic Way
  • Limerick: Riverside city with growing business and education sectors
  • Waterford: Ireland’s oldest city, known for Viking history and Waterford Crystal