Moving to Ireland from the USA: Complete 2024 Guide

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Planning to move from the United States to Ireland? You’re joining thousands of Americans who’ve made this move in recent years, drawn by career opportunities, EU citizenship possibilities, and a different pace of life. This guide covers everything you need to know about visas, finding housing, managing costs, and settling into Irish life.

Ireland offers Americans several advantages: English-speaking, strong economy (especially in tech and pharma), EU access, and a more relaxed work culture. But it’s also expensive, housing is scarce, and the weather is genuinely terrible. Let’s be realistic about what you’re getting into.

Quick summary for Americans

  • Visa required: Yes, unless you qualify for Irish citizenship by descent
  • Average salary needed: €35,000+ to live comfortably in Dublin
  • Housing: Very competitive, especially Dublin
  • Timeline: 3-6 months from job offer to arrival
  • Biggest challenges: Housing shortage, cost of living, adapting to weather
  • Major benefits: EU access, better work-life balance, proximity to Europe, pathway to citizenship

Do you need a visa?

Unlike EU citizens or UK nationals, US citizens need permission to live and work in Ireland beyond a tourist visit.

Tourist visits (no visa required)

US citizens can visit Ireland visa-free for up to 90 days. This means you can:

  • Visit for tourism
  • Attend business meetings
  • Go to job interviews
  • Check out neighbourhoods and housing

What you cannot do:

  • Work (even remotely for a US employer)
  • Stay longer than 90 days
  • Access public services

Many Americans use tourist visits to attend interviews, secure job offers, and scout housing before applying for work permits. This is perfectly legal—just don’t start working until your permit is approved.

Work permits for Americans

To work in Ireland, you need an employment permit. Your employer applies for this, not you. The two main types are:

Critical Skills Employment Permit (the better option)

  • For occupations on the Critical Skills list or roles paying €64,000+
  • Minimum salary: €32,000 (on list) or €64,000 (not on list)
  • Initial validity: 2 years
  • Key benefit: Family members can join and work immediately
  • Pathway to permanent residence after 2 years
  • Processing time: 6-8 weeks

General Employment Permit

  • For roles paying €30,000+ not on the Ineligible List
  • Labour market test required (employer must advertise 28 days)
  • Initial validity: 2 years
  • Family members can join but need separate work permits
  • Pathway to permanent residence after 5 years
  • Processing time: 8-12 weeks

Which do you need? If you’re in tech, healthcare, engineering, or most professional roles paying €32,000+, you’ll likely qualify for Critical Skills. This is the one you want—it’s faster, allows family to work, and leads to permanent residence quicker.

For complete details on the application process, costs, and timelines, see our comprehensive guide to Irish work permits and visas.

Irish citizenship by descent

If you have an Irish grandparent, you may qualify for Irish citizenship without needing a work permit. This is worth investigating before going through the employment permit process.

Eligibility:

  • At least one grandparent born in Ireland
  • Parent registered in Foreign Births Register before your birth, OR
  • You can register yourself in the Foreign Births Register

Benefits:

  • Irish (and therefore EU) passport
  • No work permit needed
  • Can live and work anywhere in EU
  • Voting rights in Ireland

Check the Irish citizenship website to see if you qualify. Processing takes 6-12 months but gives you permanent status.

Before you move: Essential preparation

Timeline expectations

From deciding to move to actually living in Ireland:

  • Job search: 1-6 months (varies by field)
  • Work permit processing: 6-12 weeks
  • Planning and preparation: 4-8 weeks
  • Total: 3-6 months minimum

Start earlier than you think you need to. The process takes longer than most Americans expect.

Financial requirements

Budget for these initial costs:

  • First month’s rent + deposit: €3,600-€5,000 (Dublin)
  • Flight: €400-€1,200
  • Shipping belongings: €3,000-€10,000 (if shipping a container)
  • First month’s expenses: €2,000-€3,000
  • Buffer for unexpected costs: €2,000+

Total suggested savings: €10,000-€15,000+ for Dublin, €7,000-€10,000 for other cities

This seems like a lot, but you’ll need first and last month’s rent upfront, plus money to cover expenses before your first paycheck arrives.

Documents to gather now

Start collecting these before you even have a job offer:

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Birth certificate
  • Educational qualifications (degrees, transcripts)
  • Professional certifications
  • Employment references from last 2-3 jobs
  • Driving licence (full history)
  • Background check results (some employers require)
  • Medical records (prescription details, vaccination records)

Having these ready speeds up your employment permit application once you get a job offer.

Getting your PPS number

Your Personal Public Service (PPS) number is Ireland’s equivalent of a Social Security Number. You’ll need it for everything: working, paying taxes, opening bank accounts, renting, accessing healthcare.

When to apply: As soon as you arrive in Ireland with your employment permit.

How to apply:

  1. Book an appointment online with your local Intreo Centre (Social Welfare Office)
  2. Bring your documents:
    • Passport
    • Proof of address in Ireland (utility bill, lease, bank statement dated within 3 months)
    • Evidence you need a PPS number (job offer letter, employment contract, IRP card)
  3. Attend your appointment
  4. Receive your PPS number by post (2-3 weeks)

Challenge for newcomers: You need proof of address to get a PPS number, but many landlords want a PPS number before renting to you. Solutions:

  • Stay in short-term accommodation initially (Airbnb, hotel) and use that address
  • Ask your employer to provide a letter confirming your employment and need for PPS
  • Some landlords will rent without PPS if you explain your situation

For the complete step-by-step process, see our detailed guide on getting your PPS number.

Healthcare: What Americans need to know

Ireland’s healthcare system will feel very different from the US system—but also much cheaper.

How it works

Ireland has a two-tier system:

  • Public healthcare: Not free, but affordable
  • Private healthcare: Optional insurance for faster access

Key differences from the US:

  • No insurance tied to employment
  • GP (doctor) visits cost €50-70 out of pocket
  • Hospital emergency visits cost €100
  • No billing nightmares—you know the cost upfront
  • Prescription costs are capped (€80/month maximum per family)

Total annual healthcare costs:

  • Without private insurance: €500-€1,500 (depending on health)
  • With private insurance: €1,500-€4,000 (including premiums)

Compare this to US costs and you’ll see why even with insurance, healthcare is cheaper in Ireland for most people.

Private health insurance

Most people in Ireland get private insurance—not because public healthcare is bad, but because waiting times for non-emergency care can be long.

Monthly costs:

  • Basic plan: €80-€150/month
  • Comprehensive: €150-€300/month
  • Family plan: €250-€500/month

Major providers:

  • VHI (largest, most comprehensive)
  • Laya Healthcare
  • Irish Life Health

Many employers provide health insurance as a benefit. If yours doesn’t, budget for it—it’s worth having.

For a detailed comparison of healthcare options, see our healthcare in Ireland guide.

Finding accommodation

This is the hardest part of moving to Ireland. The housing shortage is real, competition is brutal, and prices are high.

Current rental costs (2024)

Dublin monthly rates:

  • One-bedroom apartment (city centre): €1,800-€2,500
  • One-bedroom apartment (suburbs): €1,500-€2,000
  • Two-bedroom apartment: €2,400-€3,200
  • Room in shared house: €800-€1,200

Cork and Galway:

  • One-bedroom apartment: €1,200-€1,800
  • Two-bedroom apartment: €1,600-€2,200
  • Room in shared house: €600-€900

Smaller cities:

  • One-bedroom apartment: €800-€1,200
  • Two-bedroom apartment: €1,000-€1,500

For complete cost breakdowns and budgeting advice, see our cost of living in Ireland guide.

The rental reality

What to expect:

  • Properties get 50+ applications
  • Viewings are crowded (20+ people viewing simultaneously)
  • Landlords favor people already in Ireland
  • You’ll need references, proof of income, and first month + deposit upfront
  • Leases are typically 12 months

Strategies that work:

  1. Start with short-term accommodation

    • Airbnb or serviced apartment for first 1-2 months
    • Gives you time to find proper housing
    • Provides an Irish address for PPS number

  2. Be application-ready

    • Create a rental CV with photo, employment details, references
    • Have bank statements ready
    • Write a brief personal statement
    • Respond to listings within minutes

  3. Consider commuter towns

    • Bray, Greystones, Maynooth (near Dublin)
    • More availability, lower costs
    • 30-45 minute train commute

  4. Use all platforms

    • Daft.ie (main site)
    • Rent.ie
    • MyHome.ie
    • Facebook groups (search “[city] rent”)

For the complete process, tenant rights, and detailed advice, see our renting in Ireland guide.

Opening a bank account

You’ll need an Irish bank account for receiving salary and paying bills. This can be tricky initially.

Documents required:

  • Passport
  • Proof of address in Ireland (dated within 3 months)
  • PPS number
  • Employment letter

The catch-22: Banks want proof of address, but you need a bank account to pay rent and get proof of address. Solutions:

  • Use Revolut or N26 initially (accept hotel/Airbnb address)
  • Get an employer letter confirming your job and address
  • Use your employment contract as proof

Recommended approach:

  1. Open a Revolut account before arriving (works with US address)
  2. Use Revolut for first month
  3. Once you have proof of address, open traditional Irish bank account
  4. Keep both accounts (Revolut for convenience, Irish bank for legitimacy)

Major Irish banks:

  • AIB (Allied Irish Banks) - largest
  • Bank of Ireland - widespread branches
  • Permanent TSB - good customer service
  • Ulster Bank - being phased out (avoid)

For detailed comparisons and step-by-step instructions, see our banking in Ireland guide.

Cost of living: The honest breakdown

Ireland is expensive. More expensive than most of the US. Be prepared for sticker shock.

Monthly budget examples (2024 prices)

Single person in Dublin:

  • Rent (room in shared house): €900
  • Groceries: €250-€300
  • Transport (Leap Card): €135
  • Utilities (your share): €50
  • Mobile phone: €20
  • Health insurance: €100
  • Entertainment/eating out: €200
  • Total: €1,655-€1,705

Recommended salary: €35,000+ (€2,500/month after tax)

Couple in Dublin (no kids):

  • Rent (one-bedroom): €2,000
  • Groceries: €400
  • Transport (2 Leap Cards): €270
  • Utilities: €180
  • Health insurance: €200
  • Other expenses: €300
  • Total: €3,350

Recommended combined salary: €65,000+ (€4,600/month after tax)

What costs more than the US

  • Rent (significantly higher)
  • Alcohol (pint of beer: €6-7)
  • Dining out (€15-25 per main course)
  • Petrol (€1.70/litre = ~$7/gallon)
  • Cars (more expensive to buy and run)
  • Clothes (higher prices, less variety)

What costs less than the US

  • Healthcare (no insurance nightmares, lower costs)
  • Mobile phone plans (€20-30/month unlimited)
  • Education (university: €3,000/year vs US costs)
  • Public transport (€135/month unlimited buses/rail in Dublin)

For comprehensive budget breakdowns and money-saving tips, see our detailed cost of living guide.

Driving and transport

Your US driving licence

Your US driving licence is valid in Ireland for 12 months after you become resident. After that, you must exchange it for an Irish licence.

Exchange process: Varies by state. Some states have reciprocal agreements (no test required), others don’t (you’ll need a driving test).

States with reciprocal agreements: Check the NDLS website for current list. This changes occasionally.

If no agreement: You’ll need to:

  • Complete a driving test
  • Cost: €85
  • Book months in advance (long waiting lists)

Start this process early. Many Americans drive on their US licence for the full 12 months, then face long delays getting an Irish test.

Buying a car

Costs:

  • New car: €20,000-€50,000+
  • Used car (3-5 years): €10,000-€25,000
  • Insurance: €800-€2,000/year (higher without Irish history)
  • Road tax: €200-€800/year
  • Petrol: €1.70/litre (~€75 to fill a tank)

Is a car necessary?

  • Dublin: No, public transport is adequate
  • Cork/Galway: Helpful but not essential
  • Smaller towns/rural areas: Yes, essential

For complete information about driving in Ireland, see our driving guide.

Cultural adjustments for Americans

Work culture differences

What’s different:

  • More relaxed pace than US corporate culture
  • Annual leave: 20-25 days standard (vs 10-15 in US)
  • “Tea break” culture (short breaks for coffee/tea)
  • Bank holidays: 9 per year
  • Less “hustle culture”
  • Work-life balance actually valued

What’s similar:

  • Professional standards
  • English language business environment
  • Similar business hours (9-5 or 9-6)

Many Americans find Irish work culture refreshing—less pressure, more flexibility, actual vacation time they’re encouraged to use.

Social and cultural differences

The weather: It rains. A lot. It’s rarely very cold or very hot. Summer is 15-20°C (60-68°F). Winter rarely goes below 0°C (32°F). Rain is frequent year-round.

Pub culture: Central to social life. Not just about drinking—pubs are community spaces for meeting friends, watching sports, live music.

Friendliness: Irish people are genuinely friendly and chatty. Small talk with strangers is normal. Asking “How’s it going?” doesn’t require a real answer (“Grand” is the standard response).

Directness: Less direct than Americans. “I’ll think about it” often means “no.” “That’s interesting” might mean “I disagree.”

Language quirks:

  • “Grand” = fine/okay (not great)
  • “I will, yeah” = I probably won’t
  • “That’s gas” = that’s funny
  • “Fair play” = well done
  • “Your man/your one” = that guy/that woman

Sports: Gaelic football and hurling are huge. Learn about them to understand social conversations. Rugby and soccer also popular.

Measurement: Metric system (kilometres, celsius, kilograms), except for:

  • Beer (pints)
  • Height (feet and inches)
  • Body weight (stones—don’t ask)

Practical differences from the US

Electrical:

  • Different outlets (Type G, 230V)
  • Bring adapters or buy new appliances
  • US electronics work but need plug adapters

Date format:

  • DD/MM/YYYY (not MM/DD/YYYY)
  • This causes confusion with forms and appointments

Phone numbers:

  • Format: +353 (country code) then number
  • Irish mobile numbers start with 08

Tipping:

  • 10% is standard (not 15-20%)
  • Not expected in pubs/bars
  • Taxi drivers: round up fare

Taxes: Critical information for Americans

Irish taxes

You’ll pay Irish taxes on Irish income:

  • Income tax: 20% (up to €42,000) and 40% (above)
  • Universal Social Charge (USC): 0.5-8%
  • PRSI (social insurance): 4%
  • Tax credits reduce liability

Take-home pay examples:

  • €35,000 gross = €28,500 net (~81%)
  • €50,000 gross = €37,800 net (~76%)
  • €70,000 gross = €49,000 net (~70%)

US tax obligations (IMPORTANT!)

You still must file US taxes. The US requires citizens to file taxes regardless of where they live.

Key points:

  • Annual filing requirement remains
  • Foreign Earned Income Exclusion: Up to $126,500 (2024) exempt
  • Foreign Tax Credit: Offset Irish taxes against US liability
  • FBAR reporting: Required if foreign accounts exceed $10,000 at any point
  • FATCA: Irish banks report US citizen accounts to IRS

Recommendation: Consult an international tax specialist before moving. Cost: €300-€800 but worth it to avoid problems. Many Americans owe nothing due to Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and Foreign Tax Credit, but you must still file.

Shipping and moving your belongings

Should you ship or buy new?

Consider shipping:

  • Personal items and clothing
  • Important documents
  • Sentimental items
  • Professional equipment

Buy new in Ireland:

  • Furniture (shipping cost exceeds buying new)
  • Large appliances (different voltage)
  • Kitchen items (different outlets)
  • Cars (right-hand drive)

Shipping costs

  • Full container: €8,000-€15,000
  • Partial container: €3,000-€8,000
  • Air freight (small amount): €1,500-€3,000
  • Transit time: 4-8 weeks by sea, 1-2 weeks by air

Many Americans sell most belongings and start fresh—cheaper and easier.

Frequently asked questions

Can I work remotely for my US employer while living in Ireland?

Legally, no—not without proper authorisation. You need a work permit to work in Ireland, even remotely. Some Americans try this, but it creates tax complications and immigration issues. Get proper work authorisation.

Can I keep my US health insurance?

Most US health insurance doesn’t cover care abroad. You’ll need Irish health insurance or pay out of pocket. Some US plans offer limited overseas coverage—check your policy.

Will my US pension/401(k) transfer to Ireland?

You can leave it in the US—no requirement to transfer. Withdrawals will be subject to US tax rules. Consult a financial advisor about tax implications of accessing US retirement funds while living abroad.

Can I bring my pet?

Yes, but there are requirements:

  • Microchip
  • Rabies vaccination
  • EU Pet Passport
  • Tapeworm treatment (dogs only)
  • Airlines have their own requirements

No quarantine required if paperwork is correct. Process takes 2-3 months to complete properly.

What about my student loans?

US student loans remain your obligation. Set up autopay from a US bank account or use Irish account with international transfers. Contact your loan servicer about living abroad—some offer deferment or adjusted payment plans.

Do I need to learn Irish?

No. Everyone speaks English. Irish (Gaeilge) is taught in schools and some people speak it, but it’s not necessary for daily life. Learning a few phrases is appreciated but not required.

Can my kids attend Irish schools?

Yes. Public primary and secondary education is free (though “voluntary contributions” of €100-300/year are expected). Your children can start school upon arrival. University fees for EU residents (which your children may qualify as) are €3,000/year—much less than US costs.

How do I maintain my US ties?

Keep:

  • US bank account (for bills, loans)
  • US phone number (Google Voice works)
  • US address (family member’s address for mail)
  • US driving licence (as ID)
  • US voter registration (you can vote from abroad)

What about US holidays?

You won’t get Thanksgiving, July 4th, or US holidays off—these aren’t recognized. Ireland has 9 public holidays (bank holidays). Many American companies with Irish offices give Thanksgiving as a company holiday, but not all.

How easy is it to visit the US?

Flights from Dublin to US East Coast: 6-7 hours, €300-€800 round trip. You’re closer than from the West Coast. Many Americans visit home 1-2 times per year.

Your moving checklist

6 months before:

  • Research employment opportunities
  • Understand visa requirements
  • Start job applications
  • Consult international tax advisor
  • Check Irish citizenship by descent eligibility
  • Budget and save €10,000-€15,000+

3 months before:

  • Secure job offer
  • Employer applies for employment permit
  • Research neighbourhoods and housing
  • Notify US institutions of upcoming move
  • Arrange shipping or sell belongings
  • Book short-term accommodation for arrival

1 month before:

  • Book flights
  • Finalize shipping arrangements
  • Transfer money to Ireland
  • Open Revolut account
  • Notify US landlord/mortgage company
  • Forward US mail to family member
  • Get international driving permit

First week in Ireland:

  • Collect IRP card (if not done at airport)
  • Apply for PPS number
  • Open Irish bank account
  • Register with GP
  • Get local SIM card or phone plan
  • Register with US Embassy (optional but recommended)

First month:

  • Find permanent accommodation
  • Set up utilities
  • Exchange US driving licence (start process)
  • Explore your neighbourhood
  • Join expat/social groups
  • Enjoy your first proper pint of Guinness

Final thoughts

Moving from the US to Ireland is a major life change. The housing shortage is frustrating, the cost of living is high, and the weather is genuinely depressing. But you’ll also get better work-life balance, access to all of Europe, a path to EU citizenship, and a different perspective on life.

Most Americans who move to Ireland are glad they did it, even with the challenges. Just be realistic about what you’re getting into, prepare thoroughly, and budget properly.

For your next steps, read about getting your PPS number, understand the complete costs, and review the work permit process in detail. With proper planning and realistic expectations, you can make this move successfully.

Welcome to Ireland—you’ll fit right in once you learn that “How’s the form?” means “How are you?” and “grand” never means “great.”