Living & Working in Ireland

Over the last twenty years, Ireland has transformed itself into one of the most modern and cosmopolitan countries in Europe. Despite the economy slowing considerably in the past two years, Ireland remains a destination of choice both for employers looking for a business friendly and low tax environment, and jobseekers who want to experience Ireland’s unique culture and lifestyle.

Living in Ireland – fast facts

• The currency is the Euro (€).
• Ireland has two official languages: English and Gaelic.  English is the main language and used daily by 95% of the population.
• Dublin is the capital city and over 40% of the population resides within 100 km of Dublin.
• The Republic of Ireland covers almost 85% of the island of Ireland.  The remaining 15% is known as Northern Ireland and is part of the United Kingdom.
• Ireland occupies a strategic location on major air and sea routes between North America and northern Europe.

Living in Ireland – Visa Information

Nationals of an EEA country do not require visas, although they are required to apply at their local Garda (police) station for a residence permit if they plan to stay longer than three months.

Non-EEA nationals who intend to work in Ireland will require a work permit as well as a residence permit (issued simultaneously for the same duration). There are some exceptions to this rule; please see www.entemp.ie/labour/workpermits for further details. 

Applications for work permits must be made by a prospective employer (not the employee) to the Work Permits Section of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in Dublin and must be submitted before your arrival in Ireland.

Tax & Social Services Information



Before you start working in Ireland, it’s essential that you get a Personal Public Service (PPS) number, which will register and identify you on the tax system.  To obtain your PPS number you will need to visit your local Social Welfare branch and take with you proof of your address.  You will also need identification. www.welfare.ie

Tax Certificate - Once you have a PPS number you will need to apply for a tax certificate. The best way to do this is to either download the form from the website or go into the branch and pick one up. A Tax Certificate will ensure that you are taxed at the correct rate.

Tax Refunds - If your earnings have been relatively low you may be entitled to a tax rebate before you leave Ireland. To claim you will need a P60 (outlining your exact salary and tax details) and/or a P45 form (which you get when you leave a job).
 

Banking Information

You will need a bank account in order to be paid by your employer.  It is best to telephone the bank first and ask for the information required before you go in but generally you’ll need two forms of ID and a letter or bill which has an address of where you are staying in Ireland. Services in banks do vary so shop around.  You should be able to open an account within a week of trying.  It’s a good idea to bring a letter or statements from your bank at home, as examples of your recent financial history. The main banks to choose from are:

•    AIB (www.aib.ie)
•    Bank of Ireland (http://www.boi.ie)
•    Ulster Bank ( www.ulsterbank.ie)
•    Permanent TSB ( http://www.permanenttsb.ie/)