Moving to Ireland from the UK: A Complete Guide

UKVisasImmigration

Moving from the UK to Ireland involves several important steps, especially following Brexit. This guide covers everything you need to know about relocating across the Irish Sea.

Do I need a visa?

As a UK citizen, you have the right to live and work in Ireland without a visa under the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement. This arrangement predates the EU and remains in place after Brexit.

Key benefits of the CTA:

  • No need for a visa or residence permit
  • Right to work without a work permit
  • Access to healthcare
  • Access to social welfare benefits
  • Right to vote in certain elections

What documents do I need?

Whilst you don’t need a visa, you’ll need several documents:

Essential documents

  • Valid passport or national identity card
  • Proof of address in Ireland
  • Birth certificate (for certain registrations)
  • National Insurance number (UK)

Useful documents

  • Driving licence
  • Medical records
  • Educational certificates
  • Employment references

Getting your PPS number

Your Personal Public Service (PPS) number is essential for working and accessing services in Ireland. It’s similar to a UK National Insurance number.

To apply for a PPS number:

  1. Book an appointment with your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Office
  2. Bring proof of identity (passport)
  3. Bring proof of address in Ireland
  4. Bring evidence of why you need the number (job offer, college letter, etc.)

Allow 2-3 weeks for processing. For the complete step-by-step process, see our detailed guide on getting your PPS number.

Healthcare in Ireland

As a UK citizen living in Ireland, you can access the Irish healthcare system. You’ll need to:

  1. Register with a GP in your local area
  2. Apply for a medical card or GP visit card (if eligible)
  3. Keep your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for emergency cover

Healthcare costs differ from the NHS:

  • GP visits typically cost €50-60
  • Hospital emergency department visits cost €100 (waived if admitted)
  • Prescriptions have charges unless you have a medical card

Many UK citizens moving to Ireland get private health insurance for faster access to specialists and choice of consultants. See our detailed private health insurance comparison covering VHI, Laya, and Irish Life Health to help you choose the right plan. For complete information about the Irish healthcare system, see our healthcare in Ireland guide.

Opening a bank account

You’ll need an Irish bank account for receiving wages and paying bills.

Requirements:

  • Proof of identity (passport)
  • Proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement)
  • PPS number (some banks require this)

Popular banks include AIB, Bank of Ireland, Permanent TSB, and KBC (though KBC is exiting the Irish market).

For detailed information about opening a bank account, including how to handle the proof of address challenge and comparisons of different banks, see our banking in Ireland guide.

Driving in Ireland

Your UK driving licence is valid in Ireland, but you may want to exchange it for an Irish licence.

Key differences:

  • Ireland uses kilometres, not miles
  • Speed limits are in km/h
  • Petrol and diesel are more expensive
  • Motor tax (road tax) must be paid annually
  • NCT (similar to MOT) required for vehicles over 4 years old

For complete information about driving in Ireland, licence exchange, and buying a car, see our driving in Ireland guide.

Finding accommodation

The rental market can be competitive, especially in Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Finding a rental in Ireland requires using the right platforms and responding quickly to new listings.

For a complete guide to Irish rental websites, how they compare, and strategies for securing accommodation, see our best rental websites guide. For the full rental process, tenant rights, costs, and how to avoid scams, see our comprehensive renting in Ireland guide.

Quick tips for finding a home:

  • Start your search early
  • Use Daft.ie and Rent.ie with email alerts set to instant notifications
  • Be prepared to pay one month’s rent as deposit plus first month’s rent upfront
  • Budget €1,200-€2,000+ per month for a one-bedroom in Dublin
  • Consider areas outside city centres for better value and availability

Cost of living

Generally, the cost of living in Ireland is similar to or slightly higher than the UK, especially in Dublin. Rent is typically higher than most UK cities outside London, and everyday expenses can add up quickly.

Typical monthly costs (single person in Dublin):

  • Rent (one-bedroom): €1,500-€2,000
  • Groceries: €250-€350
  • Transport: €120-€150
  • Utilities: €100-€150
  • Going out: €200-€400

For a complete breakdown of costs across all categories, including detailed budget examples for singles, couples, and families, see our comprehensive cost of living in Ireland guide.

Bringing pets

You can bring pets from the UK to Ireland without quarantine if they:

  • Have a microchip
  • Have a valid rabies vaccination
  • Have a pet passport or health certificate

Tax and National Insurance

Ireland and the UK have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation.

Important points:

  • You’ll pay Irish income tax on Irish earnings
  • Tax year runs January to December (not April to April)
  • Universal Social Charge (USC) and Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) are deducted from wages
  • Keep records for both countries if you move mid-tax year

Next steps

  1. Secure employment or proof of income
  2. Find accommodation (see our renting guide)
  3. Register for a PPS number
  4. Open a bank account
  5. Register with a GP for healthcare
  6. Set up utilities and internet
  7. Update your address with UK institutions
  8. Register to vote in Ireland

Moving from the UK to Ireland is relatively straightforward thanks to the CTA, but proper preparation is key to a smooth transition.