There are a number of different reasons why people to choose to move to Ireland, it may be for work, or for setting up a new business, maybe to move in with a family member or even seek asylum. Whatever the reason, it is important to make sure you have an entitlement to live within Ireland before you make too many big decisions. Your entitlement will depend on a few things but mainly focusing on what your Nationality is and the purpose of your residency. Work and education are offered to all new and existing residents of Ireland.

Once you have determined if you are allowed to live within Ireland, there are many other things you should be aware of. This article is aimed at the people wishing to acquire citizen status rather than short terms holiday makers, but some of the information may still be helpful. Ireland has many great things to offer all people, whether you are seeking a scenic country life or a bustling city life.

Landing in Ireland, do you have permission

Here are a few rules which apply to applicant, and these apply despite your nationality and residency purpose.
EU/EEA/Switzerland: typically, nationals of these states have rights to land in Ireland this is, however, subject to restrictions. A visa is not required, but you will have to have a valid passport and/or identity card. You may be entitled permission depending on your work status, i.e. if you’re employed/self-employed. If you wish to study, this is acceptable, as well as retiring according to certain criteria.

Studying in Ireland
If you are considering going to Ireland to study, you must obtain a placement with the Irish Education Institute.  It is likely that students from outside the EEA and Switzerland will incur higher fees.

General information about living in Ireland

Education: Primary and Secondary school education is free to all Ireland citizens under the age of 18. There are also some schools that charge a fee for their education. It is compulsory to attend school in Ireland until the age of 16.

Government: Ireland is a parliamentary democracy. All residents may vote in their local elections, all EU citizens have the right to vote in European elections and UK citizens have the right to vote in national elections.

Tax and social insurance contributions: If you gain employment when living in Ireland, you may have to pay PRSI contributions as all Irish citizens do. So if you’re working in Ireland and living in Ireland, you maybe be liable to pay income tax.

Considering moving to Ireland for work?

It is acceptable for you to obtain employment in Ireland or even become self-employed. You will be required to supply information regarding tax and/or benefits.
Health services: Residents in Ireland have many free medical services available to them, including some that are subsidised by the government. Private healthcare is also available. Some people may find that private health care is a requirement for their citizenship

EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are allowed to live and work in Ireland. Romanian and Bulgarian people are entitled if they are self-employed or are in the process of setting up a business in Ireland. You must be treated exactly the same as your Irish co-workers. You have the right to have your family come and live with you in Ireland.
Housing: Housing can be expensive in Ireland due to the amount of small villages and the low number of property development schemes.
Equality: Ireland has legislation in place which makes sure there is no discrimination of race, gender or age when it comes to working and services.