Our guide on the best Tips for Expats Living in Ireland if you are planning to move in.
Ireland is a welcoming and culturally rich destination for expats, but settling in a new country comes with its own set of challenges. From understanding local customs to navigating practicalities, this guide provides essential tips for living in Ireland, mistakes to avoid, and how to adapt smoothly.
Living in Ireland offers a blend of rich culture, friendly people, and stunning landscapes. While there are challenges, understanding and embracing Irish customs, practicalities, and quirks will make your experience rewarding. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll feel at home in no time.
Read here Things to know before visiting Ireland and Ireland sim card for tourist
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Tips for Expats Living in Ireland
1. Understand Irish Culture
Tip: The Irish are known for their friendliness and love of conversation. Be ready for small talk, especially about the weather!
Mistake to Avoid: Assuming directness is always appreciated. The Irish tend to prefer subtlety and humor, so avoid being overly blunt.
How to Avoid It: Take time to understand the local sense of humor and adapt your communication style.
2. Learn About Local Laws and Paperwork
Tip: Ensure you have the correct visa or residency permit to live and work in Ireland.
Mistake to Avoid: Delaying your application for a Personal Public Service (PPS) number, which is essential for accessing healthcare, taxes, and employment.
How to Avoid It: Apply for a PPS number as soon as you arrive. You’ll need proof of identity and address.
3. Housing Can Be Tricky
Tip: Housing in cities like Dublin is expensive and competitive.
Mistake to Avoid: Waiting too long to secure accommodation or not researching neighborhoods.
How to Avoid It:
Use trusted rental platforms like Daft.ie or Rent.ie.
Visit potential properties in person when possible.
Be prepared with references and proof of income.
4. Get Familiar with Public Transportation
Tip: Public transport in Ireland includes buses, trains, and trams, but it’s less extensive than in some other European countries.
Mistake to Avoid: Assuming public transport will cover all areas, especially rural locations.
How to Avoid It:
In cities like Dublin, get a Leap Card for discounted fares on buses, trams (LUAS), and trains.
Consider renting or buying a car if you plan to live in rural areas.
5. Adapt to the Weather
Tip: Ireland’s weather is famously unpredictable, with frequent rain and mild temperatures year-round.
Mistake to Avoid: Not preparing for wet and windy weather.
How to Avoid It:
Invest in a high-quality raincoat and waterproof shoes.
Layer clothing for fluctuating temperatures.
6. Embrace Irish Cuisine and Groceries
Tip: Try local specialties like Irish stew, boxty, and seafood chowder.
Mistake to Avoid: Sticking only to international food stores.
How to Avoid It:
Shop at local markets and grocery stores like SuperValu and Tesco.
Explore traditional Irish pubs for hearty meals.
7. Banking and Finances
Tip: Open an Irish bank account to manage your finances efficiently.
Mistake to Avoid: Relying solely on international bank accounts, which can result in higher fees.
How to Avoid It:
Choose from major banks like Bank of Ireland, AIB, or digital banks like Revolut.
Bring proof of address and ID when opening an account.
8. Learn to Drive on the Left
Tip: Ireland drives on the left side of the road, and many rural areas require a car.
Mistake to Avoid: Underestimating the challenge of adjusting to left-side driving.
How to Avoid It:
Practice on quieter roads before tackling busy streets.
Get familiar with Irish road signs and roundabouts.
If your license isn’t valid in Ireland, apply for an Irish driver’s license.
9. Understand Irish Healthcare
Tip: Ireland has a mix of public and private healthcare.
Mistake to Avoid: Assuming healthcare is free for everyone.
How to Avoid It:
Register for public healthcare through your PPS number, but know that waiting times can be long.
Consider private health insurance for faster access to services.
10. Get Involved in the Community
Tip: The Irish value community and relationships, so it’s essential to integrate.
Mistake to Avoid: Staying isolated in an expat bubble.
How to Avoid It:
Join local clubs or groups based on your interests (sports, arts, music).
Participate in community events like festivals or traditional Irish dancing nights.
11. Know the Cost of Living
Tip: Ireland can be expensive, particularly in urban areas like Dublin.
Mistake to Avoid: Underestimating costs for rent, groceries, and utilities.
How to Avoid It:
Budget carefully and compare prices before committing to a rental.
Explore cost-effective alternatives like cycling or carpooling.
12. Respect the Irish Language and Heritage
Tip: While English is the primary language, Irish (Gaeilge) is a significant part of the culture.
Mistake to Avoid: Ignoring Irish traditions or dismissing the language as unimportant.
How to Avoid It:
Learn a few Irish phrases like “Dia dhuit” (Hello).
Explore Irish history, folklore, and music to deepen your appreciation of the culture.
13. Be Prepared for Social Norms
Tip: Pubs are central to Irish social life, but binge drinking is not the norm.
Mistake to Avoid: Assuming all Irish people drink excessively.
How to Avoid It:
Enjoy the pub atmosphere, but drink responsibly.
Engage in conversations and live music, which are key parts of the experience.
14. Be Patient with Bureaucracy
Tip: Paperwork and administrative processes can be slow in Ireland.
Mistake to Avoid: Getting frustrated with delays in government services.
How to Avoid It:
Start any required applications early (residency permits, PPS number, etc.).
Keep all necessary documents organized and ready.
15. Travel and Explore
Tip: Ireland’s small size makes it easy to explore its beautiful landscapes and charming towns.
Mistake to Avoid: Staying confined to one city.
How to Avoid It:
Visit iconic spots like the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and Giant’s Causeway.
Use weekends to explore the countryside and coastal villages.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.