
Ireland attracts thousands of expats every year, drawn by its vibrant economy, stunning landscapes, and warm culture. As a true European tech hub, the country hosts the headquarters of giants like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Microsoft, providing excellent career opportunities. With around 5.3 million residents, nearly one-fifth of whom are foreign-born, Ireland fosters a multicultural and welcoming atmosphere. The French community, estimated to number between 15,000 and 20,000 individuals, is primarily based in Dublin, Cork, and Galway.
鈿狅笍 This guide focuses on the Republic of Ireland, which should not be confused with Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom and subject to its own visa regulations and administrative procedures.
5 great reasons to choose Ireland
- A thriving tech sector: with over 2,500 startups and a strong multinational presence, the job market is booming.
- Business-friendly tax regime: corporate tax rates are as low as 12.5%, making it an ideal location to start a business.
- An English-speaking country: English-speaking populations help seamless integration both professionally and socially.
- Unspoiled nature: cliffs, mountains, and rugged coastlines offer breathtaking scenery.
- A vibrant social life: the pub culture, traditional music, and typical Irish friendliness make for an enjoyable community experience.
The 大咖福利影院 guide supports your transition to Ireland, providing all the essential information regarding: visas, employment, housing, healthcare, everyday life, and local integration.
Official languages: Irish (Gaelic) and English | Local currency: Euro (鈧) | Time difference with France: -1 hour | Flight duration Paris - Dublin: Approximately 1h45 |
Your setup journey
Guide in 14 steps. Click any step below to jump directly to the section you need.
01Where to live in Ireland?
The choice of where to settle in Ireland depends on your professional priorities, budget, and desired lifestyle. The country offers a wide variety of cities catering to different types of expats:
- Dublin is home to the majority of job opportunities, particularly in technology, finance, and services. Dynamic and cosmopolitan, the capital and its metropolitan area encompass around a quarter of the Irish population. It boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with countless pubs, theaters, and museums, although the cost of living here is also the highest in the country, especially for housing.
- Cork, Ireland's second city, is known for its friendly atmosphere and reputation as a food capital. More affordable than Dublin, it attracts families and young professionals seeking a good balance between career and quality of life. The city also benefits from a strong industrial and academic landscape.
- Galway, located on the west coast, offers a bohemian and artistic vibe thanks to its festivals, vibrant music scene, and large student community. Smaller and less expensive, it delights nature lovers with its proximity to the beautiful Connemara.
- Other cities like Limerick and Waterford provide a more peaceful lifestyle with significantly lower rents, while still maintaining an active job market, albeit a more limited one.
鈿狅笍 Northern Ireland, with Belfast as its capital, is part of the United Kingdom and is not included in the Republic of Ireland.
02Formalities and visas in Ireland
To enter the Republic of Ireland, the requirements vary depending on your nationality and the length of your stay. EU and EEA nationals enjoy free movement and do not need a visa for either tourist visits or long-term stays. However, if you plan to work or live in Ireland, you will need to apply for a (Personal Public Service Number), which is essential for accessing public services, opening a bank account, or managing your tax affairs. You can apply online at using your account once you arrive.
Non-EU/EEA nationals should check the entry conditions on the official website of the (IIS). Some nationalities are exempt from needing a visa for short stays. For any stay longer than 90 days, an (IRP) is mandatory. Registration is done with the and costs 鈧300.
Join the discussion on the forum
03Working in Ireland
Ireland boasts a dynamic job market that is welcoming to international talent. The country attracts a large number of expats thanks to its thriving tech ecosystem, booming pharmaceutical sector, and its status as a European financial hub. With English being the official language, professional integration is made easier. The market is competitive but presents excellent opportunities, especially in high-growth sectors.
Starting a business in Ireland is relatively straightforward: the processes are quick, accessible online, and not overly burdensome. Additionally, the country offers an attractive tax regime, with a corporate tax rate of 12.5%.
04Accommodation in Ireland
Housing is one of the main challenges for expatriates in Ireland. Rent prices are among the highest in Europe, especially in Dublin, where a studio in the city centre can cost between 鈧1,500 and 鈧2,000 monthly. For a three-bedroom apartment in central Dublin, you can generally expect to pay between 鈧2,500 and 鈧5,000 per month. Renting is the most common option, with leases typically lasting one year and a security deposit equivalent to one month's rent. Flat sharing is also very widespread, particularly in the capital, with rooms renting for between 鈧700 and 鈧900 per month.
Buying property is accessible to foreigners without any special restrictions, but you should be prepared for a significant budget: the average cost of a home in Dublin exceeds 鈧450,000. The process includes a reservation deposit of 3% to 5%, followed by 10% at the signing. Additional costs include stamp duty (1% up to 鈧1 million, 2% thereafter) and notary fees.
Discover more
Join the discussion on the forum
05Cost of living in Ireland
The cost of living in Ireland is among the highest in Europe, being more than 20% higher than that of France. The housing costs are the primary expense, especially in Dublin. You can expect to pay between 鈧2,500 and 鈧3,000 per month for a single person, and 鈧6,000 to 鈧7,200 for a family of four.
Here are some estimated monthly expenses:
For a single person | For a family of 4 | |
Groceries | 鈧200 to 鈧300 | 鈧600 to 鈧900 |
Utilities (water, electricity, internet, phone...) | 鈧200 to 鈧250 | 鈧350 to 鈧450 |
Healthcare (not including insurance) Insurance: between 鈧50 and 鈧300/month | 鈧20 to 鈧50 | 鈧80 to 鈧150 |
Leisure & outings | 鈧100 to 鈧150 | 鈧300 to 鈧500 |
Education (if you have children) | / | 鈧750 to 鈧2,000 per month per child |
Rent | 鈧1,500 to 鈧2,000 for a studio or a one-bedroom apartment in Dublin | 鈧2,500 to 鈧5,000 for a three-bedroom apartment in Dublin |
Transport | 鈧80 to 鈧100 | 鈧150 to 鈧250 |
Subscriptions (gym, clubs, streaming services...) | 鈧50 to 鈧70 | 鈧100 to 鈧150 |
Imported goods (organic products, cheese, wine) | 鈧50 to 鈧100 | 鈧100 to 鈧200 |
After-school childcare | / | 鈧200 to 鈧400 |
Income tax | Progressive rate: 20% up to 鈧44,000, then 40% above this | Progressive rate: 20% up to 鈧49,000 for a couple with one income, and up to 鈧88,000 for a couple with two incomes, then 40% above this |
Join the discussion on the forum
06Health care in Ireland
The Irish health system, managed by the (HSE), is funded through social contributions (PRSI). Unlike in France, access to healthcare is not universal and depends on income levels. About 30% of the population holds a , which grants free care for low-income households and certain categories (children under 6, seniors over 70, pregnant women, etc.). Other patients must pay for their care or purchase private health insurance.
The public sector faces significant waiting times, sometimes several months for a specialist or a non-urgent procedure. The private sector is faster but costly, preferred by about 40% of the Irish population. A visit to a general practitioner costs between 鈧30 and 鈧65, up to 鈧150 for a specialist, and around 鈧100 for an initial hospital consultation without a referral. For public hospital stays, the daily charge is 鈧80. Maternity care is free for all residents, covering prenatal consultations, delivery, and postnatal follow-up.
Obtaining private health insurance is strongly recommended to minimize waiting times and costs. Many employers include it in the salary package for expatriates. Without coverage, expect to pay several hundred euros a month for family insurance.
Discover more
Join the discussion on the forum
07Finance and banks in Ireland
Managing your finances in Ireland requires careful preparation, especially considering that the cost of living is over 20% higher than in France. However, the country does provide an attractive tax framework for expatriates, along with a modern and accessible banking system, and a France-Ireland tax treaty that helps avoid double taxation on income. By understanding the local tax system, including progressive tax, social insurance contributions, and local charges, you can better anticipate your expenses and manage your budget.
Join the discussion on the forum
08Retiring in Ireland
Ireland may not be the first choice for many retirees, especially those from France, who often prefer warmer Mediterranean climates. The majority of foreign retirees living on the Emerald Isle are typically former expatriates who have worked in Ireland for several years, particularly in sectors such as tech, finance, or healthcare. With its frequent rain and high cost of living, Ireland might initially seem less appealing. However, for those with comfortable incomes, the country provides a peaceful way of life, a high-quality healthcare system, an attractive tax system, and reassuring proximity to France.
3 major advantages
- Natural surroundings and quality of life: With spectacular landscapes, abundant nature, and a tranquil atmosphere, Ireland is ideal for a serene retirement.
- High-quality healthcare system: modern facilities and access to specialized care recognized across Europe.
- Proximity to France: less than 2 hours by plane from Paris, an English-speaking environment that eases integration, stunning landscapes, and a rich culture.
馃挕 Important points
- The legal age to receive the is set at 66 years. French nationals, like other EU citizens, do not need a visa to settle in the Republic of Ireland, but they will require a to complete any administrative tasks.
- French pensions can be collected from Ireland without residing in France. You simply need to notify your pension providers of your new address and provide an annual life certificate if requested.
- The cost of living in Ireland is high: over 20% higher than in France. For a comfortable lifestyle, it is advisable to budget for a net monthly income of at least 鈧3,500 to 鈧4,100, depending on your housing choice and location (with Dublin being particularly expensive).
09Studying in Ireland
Ireland attracts nearly 40,000 international students each year, thanks to its esteemed universities and English-speaking environment. The country boasts several world-renowned higher education institutions, including , , , , and . These universities offer a wide range of programs across various fields, from technology to the humanities.
Why study in Ireland?
Irish universities rank among the best in the world and offer courses entirely in English, making it easier for international students to integrate. Ireland also provides a pleasant living environment, a rich culture, and numerousinternship opportunities with established multinationals. EU/EEA students do not pay full tuition fees, but are required to contribute approximately 鈧3,000 per year. In contrast, non-EU/EEA students face tuition fees that can vary significantly depending on the program and university, ranging from 鈧5,000 to 鈧45,000 per year, alongside a high cost of living.
馃挕 Our tips
- Plan your applications ahead of time: competition is fierce at top universities.
- Research available scholarships (, internal university awards, etc.).
- Prepare a substantial budget for accommodation, as student housing is limited.
Discover more
10Education and schools in Ireland
The Irish education system is compulsory from 6 to 16 years of age and primarily conducted in English. However, most children begin their schooling as early as 4 or 5 years old in the public classes of Junior Infants and Senior Infants, which are equivalent to nursery school. The system is then divided into primary education (ages 6 to 12) and secondary education (ages 12 to 18), with a Junior Cycle (certificate) followed by the Senior Cycle leading to the Leaving Certificate (baccalaureate). Wearing uniforms is the norm in the majority of schools.
Discover more
Join the discussion on the forum
11Moving to Ireland
An international move to Ireland requires careful planning and organization. Between transporting your belongings, navigating administrative tasks, and looking for housing, it鈥檚 best to prepare everything before you leave:
- Compare international moving companies, request multiple quotes, and check their insurance coverage.
- Citizens from the EU face no customs formalities for their personal belongings. For non-EU citizens, some customs procedures may apply: check with the before departing and prepare a detailed inventory in two copies.
- Gather your essential documents (passport, diplomas, marriage certificates, birth certificates, employment contracts, etc.). Some may need to be officially translated into English.
- Apply for your upon arrival: it鈥檚 essential for working, opening a bank account, or accessing public services.
- Check the compatibility of your devices: Ireland uses 230 V / 50 Hz electricity with type G (British) plugs. Be sure to bring adapters.
- If you鈥檙e importing a vehicle, remember that driving is on the left and you must register your car with the within 7 days of your arrival.
- Due to the pressure on the rental market, it is advisable to arrange temporary accommodation upon your arrival (shared housing or short-term rental) before signing a long-term lease.
- If you鈥檙e traveling with a pet, check the entry requirements for Ireland (identification, rabies vaccinations, veterinary documents, etc.) before departure.
Discover more
12Everyday life in Ireland
Living in Ireland means embracing a relaxed lifestyle, characterized by the warmth and friendliness of the locals. The pace of life here is more peaceful compared to other European capitals, and the culture promotes a genuine balance between work and personal life. Pubs remain the heart of social life, serving as gathering spots where traditional music, laughter, and conversations flow seamlessly. The variable climate adds to the country鈥檚 charm: rain, wind, and sunny spells often cycle through in the same day. A good waterproof jacket is a must!
Join the discussion on the forum
13Leisure in Ireland
Ireland offers a wide variety of leisure activities encompassing sports traditions, a vibrant culture, and an abundant natural environment. The Irish are well-known for their warmth and community spirit, which can be experienced both on sports fields and in local pubs. The country boasts modern sports facilities readily available across the nation, with gym memberships typically ranging from 鈧20 to 鈧70 per month, depending on the amenities offered. Social life often revolves around the pubs, which serve as lively meeting spots where music, laughter, and conversation fill the evenings. Thanks to its mild climate and stunning landscapes, Ireland is also ideal for outdoor activities year-round, such as hiking and cycling.
Discover more
14The essentials to remember
Carefully prepare your expatriation plans for Ireland: check entry requirements, apply for your as soon as you arrive, and learn about the tax system and the job market.
Choose your place to live based on your priorities: Dublin for its vibrancy, Cork for balance, or Galway for quality of life. Be proactive in your search for housing, especially in Dublin and Cork, where the market is very competitive and rents are high.
Take the time to read our themed articles, especially those on employment, housing, and healthcare in Ireland.
Remember that this information pertains to the Republic of Ireland, and not Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom.
Feel free to ask your questions on the Ireland forum, where the expatriate community shares valuable advice and experiences!
Moving to Ireland means choosing a welcoming, modern country that is open to the world. Proper preparation is key to a successful settlement. We hope this 大咖福利影院 guide provides you with the essential tools to help you organize your move and fully enjoy your new life in Ireland.
Join the Ireland community
Get regular tips and advice to make the most of your expat life
大咖福利影院 for your expat journey




Forum topics on living in Ireland
Discover forums topics on expat life in Ireland: join the conversation, ask your questions, get advice and share your experience.
- Managing mailboxes or PO boxes in Ireland
- CORU Period of Adaptation
- IRELAND - WORK PERMITS
- Moving to Ireland with a disability
- Period of adaptation for optometrists
- PPS Number
- uk state pension
- New members of the Ireland forum, introduce yourselves here - 2023
- Moving to Ireland from the US with neurological disorders
- Foreign Births Register - Irish Grandparent's Marriage Certificate?
- Moving to Ireland solo
- How to make friends in Ireland
- Irish Work Permits South Africans (no Critical Skills )
- Best country for party city, Dublin & Cork vs Glagow & Edinburgh?
- The jobs that are the most in-demand for expats in Ireland
- Adapting to the climate in Ireland























