Life on an island sounds appealing? Then moving to Ireland is something you should consider. Being able to drive along the longest coastal route in the world – Wild Atlantic Way and living in the country where Halloween was originally invented means only one thing – diversity and breathtaking nature. Although it’s not the biggest country, it has something for everyone to offer because the rich history, culture, and welcoming people are just what we all need when changing surroundings.
Let’s start off with some basic information about the country before answering the question – is Ireland hard to move to? The Republic of Ireland is locally known as Éire, and it’s part of the European Union. It’s the second-largest island of the British Islands and the third-largest in Europe. Although living overseas is a challenging task, especially if you’ve never done it before. That’s why we prepared a helpful guide that will show you how to move to Ireland like a pro.
What to Know About Moving to Ireland From the US
When thinking about relocating to one of the friendliest countries in the world, then the Emerald Isle is the first choice for most people, especially when it comes to the best places to live in Europe, according to the Irish Post. The nickname came from its green fields. Also, know that everything you heard it’s true – this can give you so much, from its history that’s all around to the exquisite cuisine that goes beyond just cabbage and corned beef.
Whatever are your reasons to move, relocating overseas always requires some preparation and not just one on the relocation day. So, here are some facts about one of the best places to live in – the average income, education, and Human Development Index (HDI) show that this nation is ahead even countries like Germany, Netherlands, or Sweden:
- Its population is around 5 million people,
- The capital is Dublin,
- And the capital of Northern Ireland is Belfast,
- The currency is Euro,
- The official language is Irish and English,
- Celts inhabit this land 700 B.C. and thrived there for around 2,000 years,
- There are no wild snakes because the sea stay on their way,
- Government conservation programs are protecting the wildlife by establishing national parks and national heritage areas,
- Writing, dancing, sports, and music are Irish things,
- Tea makes everything better – about five ponds of tea each person consumes per year,
- Taoiseach (pronounced tee-shuck) is the head of the government and means ”chief”.
Get Used to Talk About the Weather
One of the biggest challenges when wondering how to live in another country is adjusting to the new surroundings. In fact, knowing how to live abroad and feeling like a part of the local community should be your top priority. The faster you get used to all the changes that come with this relocation, the sooner you’ll realize all the benefits this country can give you.
When you decide to take your chances in the Emerald Isle, the first thing you have to know is that the weather is a great deal here. About 60% of people here mention the weather conditions at least twice a day. The weather is generally mild, with some sudden changes over just a few hours. So, when you get used to the unpredictable conditions, know that you’ll always have an excellent topic for small talks with the locals – they love it.
Can Us Citizens Move to Ireland – Explore What Documentation and Visa You’ll Need
When wondering how to immigrate to Ireland, one of the first things you have to get familiar with is the needed documentation for the international move. Gather all the information you’ll find helpful later because it’s certainly not the only thing you’ll think about – don’t forget there’s some packing when moving abroad too. For the most reliable information, you should visit The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS). However, what kind of visa permit you’ll get depends on the reasons for this relocation and how long you wish to stay.
If you’re relocating with your furry friend, then you’ll be traveling via Cork, Dublin, or Shannon Airport, or Cork or Rosslare Port, and the dog has to be in the approved transportation cargo carrier. Also, ensure the rabies vaccination certificate is with you, as well.
What Type of Visas You Can Apply For
Whether you’re relocating for love or you finally found one of the best places to move abroad with family, you have to prepare the whole relocation process adequately because relocating during Coronavirus requires it. When it comes to the documents you have to gather, it’s best to start right after you decide to move to a future home. So, besides a valid passport, ensure you have your visa, and here are some of the categories to consider:
- Short or long stay visas (not required for US citizens when the travel is short),
- Long stay visas,
- Multiple entry visas.
Settle Down in One of the Most Popular Irish Cities for an American Expat
Since there are many options where expats can live, the choice will depend mostly on your personal preferences and needs. The capital – Dublin – is the happening hub, and there you can experience an urban lifestyle. The city is expensive, but if you think that overseas shipping your vehicle is a great undertaking right now, know that public transportation will get you wherever you want. Galway is another beautiful city because many tech companies there interest those looking for a job. A smaller city that will still give you everything as one metropolis would is Cork.
How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Ireland?
Figuring how much money do you need to immigrate to Ireland is definitely a thing to consider. However, a guide for the cost of living through your monthly expenses once you settle in your new home is also essential.
The average housing expenses are from $1,300 to $2,200, which isn’t as affordable, right, especially if planning on relocating to the capital city? It’s because the rate of VAT (value-added tax) is 23% which makes it one of the highest in the world.
Arm Yourself With Patience When Searching for Accommodation
Not only will it be stressful to prepare financially for it, but actually finding accommodation will take time. The market is limited so, starting at least one month before will ensure you don’t lose your nerves during the process.
Learn Everything About the Healthcare and Health Insurance in the Emerald Isle
Although healthcare here for most expats is complicated, with good research, you’ll quickly understand everything. So, the medical system is modern and among the best in Europe. Expats can have public or private health insurance, but as in many countries in the world, waiting for public medical assistance can take a while. That’s why many opt for a private one.
Universal But Not Free Healthcare for Everyone
Whether you’re opting for public or private health insurance, the patients have to pay the full fee for all treatments. Put it like that, there’s no actual universal medical assistance. However, since all the equipment and assistance is highly modern and you still have to pay for it, it’s better to consider private medical options.
What Level of Education Can You Get – Inform Yourself Thoroughly
When it comes to education, there are plenty of possibilities – public, private and international schools. However, probably the best thing when moving to the Emerald Isle is that there’s no language barrier since all the courses are in English (the Irish language is official with English, too.) That way, not only you’ll get a high-rated level of education, but you’ll realize that relocating across the world doesn’t always mean you have to rely on tips for learning new languages.
On the other hand, you can watch the video below and check out the Irish slang and phrases that will certainly help you in the first period after the move.
Is Exploring Your New Lifestyle?
If you think that moving here means exploring nature all day around, you were wrong (although nature lovers could do it.) You’ll meet new people and get to know a completely different lifestyle from yours, for example. Did you know that the Emerald Isle is one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage? LGBT+ rights are protected from discrimination.
Many Metallica lovers probably know this, but the famous folk metal band Cruachan is from Dublin. Anyhow, no matter what you like, when you start exploring there will be something to pique your interest.
American Moving to Ireland – Living Within Irish Crowd Means Unusual Customs
Knowing some specific customs and traditions is always a good idea when relocating to unknown surroundings. Here are some interesting customs you should be aware of:
- Going for a pin – one pint is never just one. It’s best to multiply it by three so you get a clear picture.
- Not the best timekeepers – someone will always be running late. If you’ve been living in Toronto, and coming to meetings first is your thing, then don’t be surprised if you sit alone at the bar or restaurant waiting for your friends for 30 minutes.
- Polite nation – you’ll get please and thank you for everything you do. So, once the relocation stress calms down, don’t forget to thank the bus driver when getting off the bus.
- Sorry or Excuse – sorry here doesn’t always mean an apology but – excuse.
- Dining habits – no one starts eating until everyone is gathered around the table, and don’t blow your nose at the table.
- No skipping the queues – when there is some kind of service, queuing is a must, and there are no skipping queues.
- Slugging – don’t be surprised if you hear a group of friends insulting each other. As strange as it sounds, that’s how they express their love.
- Swearing – get used to it because you’ll hear it a lot in everyday conversations.
- Thousand welcomes and a thousand byes – anticipate your leaving at least ten minutes before because you’ll hear many byes; there’s no possibility for just one.
- Waving to strangers – it’s not common for bigger cities, but if you’re in the country, you’ll see a lot of waving because everyone is waving to everyone.
- I let you go – this means someone really needs to go, and they’re just polite.
It’s Decided – Hire International Moving Company to Take Care of Every Big or Little Service for Efficiently Move
Hopefully, our guide will help you to be sure it’s an excellent choice to relocate here. If yes, then the only thing remaining is to hire an international moving company that will make the whole process a breeze with reliable packing services because we all know that that’s one of the most tedious tasks. Also, if you opt for a secure storage facility for your stuff, they’ll be there for you.
