Moving to Ireland
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

Embarking on the journey of moving to Ireland opens the door to a country rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

As a citizen of an EU/EEA country, you have unrestricted entry into Ireland and can stay for a maximum of three months without the need for additional formalities. All that is required is a valid passport or national identity card. There is no obligation to register with immigration authorities upon arrival in Ireland.

Non-EU/EEA nationals from countries with visa-free travel to Ireland do not need to obtain an Irish visa. However, upon arrival in Ireland, mandatory registration with immigration authorities is required, with entry permission granted at the discretion of the Immigration Officer.

For stays exceeding 90 days, individuals must meet one of the following criteria:

• Employment or self-employment.
• Demonstrating sufficient funds for personal and family support.
• Enrolled as a student or trainee.
• Recognized as a family member of an EU national falling into the mentioned categories.

Additionally, it is advisable to register with the embassy or consulate of your home country upon your arrival in Ireland.

If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen and are subject to Irish visa requirements, you need to apply for a long-stay visa to relocate to Ireland. Upon receiving your Ireland visa, you can travel to the country and request permission to stay at Border Control. A stamp on your passport will indicate the allowed duration of your stay, determined by Border Control. Initially, you are entitled to stay for a maximum of 90 days. Beyond this period, you must obtain an Ireland Resident Permit (IRP) for an extended stay. Ireland offers several pathways for stays exceeding 90 days.

Ireland offers numerous advantages and some challenges:

Starting from November 21, 2022, individuals bringing their pets to Ireland are required to adhere to specific regulations for pets entering from outside the EU/EEA. Failure to meet these requirements may result in the pet being placed in quarantine, with the associated costs borne by the owner. Detailed information regarding current procedures is available in Ukrainian and Russian.

For travelers with cats, dogs, or ferrets from EU countries or specified regions, including Andorra, Gibraltar, and others, a set of guidelines must be followed for a smooth entry into Ireland. The steps encompass microchipping, rabies vaccination, obtaining an EU pet passport, and tapeworm treatment for dogs.

For those traveling from non-EU countries, including those from Britain after January 1, 2021, a distinct process is in place. This involves microchipping, rabies vaccination, obtaining either an EU pet passport or EU health certificate, a blood test, tapeworm treatment for dogs, and advance notice to Irish authorities.

A compliance check is mandatory upon arrival from non-EU countries. Travelers must notify Irish port or airport authorities at least 24 hours before arrival. The designated entry points include Dublin Airport, Dublin Port, Shannon Airport, Cork Airport, Ringaskiddy Port in Cork, and Rosslare Europort.

Failure to comply with entry requirements may result in refusal of entry, quarantine, testing, or microchipping and vaccination at the owner's expense. In rare cases, euthanasia may be considered, and all associated costs, including quarantine, are the responsibility of the pet owner. The Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine oversees and enforces these regulations.

Ireland presents an array of enticing cities for potential residents, with each offering its own distinct charm:

Donegal, ranked as the top destination in Ireland, captivates visitors with its majestic castle, untamed coastline, and vibrant atmosphere, known locally as "craic." The 15th-century Donegal Castle, historic Irish pubs dating back to the 1700s, and lively festivals contribute to the town's allure. Positioned on the northwest coast, Donegal offers an ideal base for scenic drives along Donegal Bay to the towering Slieve League cliffs, nearly three times the height of the renowned Cliffs of Moher. Additionally, the region is a gateway to islands renowned for preserving Gaelic language and culture.

Dublin, the second-best place to visit in Ireland, stands out with its approachable and relaxed culture despite being the country's political, cultural, and musical hub. Travelers can explore attractions such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the vibrant Temple Bar district. The city's rich artistic scene, highlighted by the national theater and museums dedicated to Irish literary greats, adds to its charm. Dublin also offers easy access to picturesque destinations like the fishing village of Howth and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

The Dingle Peninsula, securing the third spot, unfolds along the renowned Wild Atlantic Way, showcasing enchanting scenery with evergreen cliffs, rugged coastlines, and azure waters. Slea Head Drive provides a picturesque route for those exploring by car, while the Dingle Way offers trails for those preferring a walking adventure. Ferry rides to the Blasket Islands reveal breathtaking cliffs, wildlife sightings, and pristine beaches, offering a tranquil escape from tourist crowds.

When bringing your belongings to Ireland, it's essential to be aware of specific regulations and considerations. Ireland allows individuals to move their personal belongings duty-free if they have been used for at least six months and will continue to be used for the same purpose in Ireland. Additionally, if you are a non-European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) citizen moving to Ireland for work or study, you can import your household items free of value-added tax (VAT) and customs duties.

For individuals seeking permanent residency in Ireland, the process is typically based on various visa categories, such as work permits, family reunification, or other long-term residency options. The Stamp 4 permission is often granted to non-EU/EEA nationals who have legally resided in Ireland for a specified period. To qualify, individuals usually need to demonstrate a stable income, adhere to immigration regulations, and fulfill residency requirements.

Acquiring Irish citizenship involves meeting certain eligibility criteria and completing a comprehensive application process. Generally, individuals can apply for naturalization after residing in Ireland for a specified period, often five years. During this time, applicants must have Stamp 4 or EU Treaty Rights permission, display good character, and fulfill language and residency requirements.

It's noteworthy that Irish citizenship is based on the principle of "birth or descent," allowing individuals with Irish ancestry to claim citizenship. As the process can be intricate, consulting with the Department of Justice or seeking legal advice is advisable to navigate the nuances of Irish citizenship acquisition.

Ireland permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to hold Irish citizenship while retaining citizenship from another country. This means you can become an Irish citizen without renouncing citizenship in your home country. However, it's crucial to note that certain countries may have rules against dual citizenship, and prospective Irish citizens should check the specific citizenship regulations of their country of origin.

For those who acquire dual citizenship in Ireland, there is an option to apply for a Without Condition Endorsement, commonly known as Stamp 6, on their non-Irish passport. This endorsement signifies the individual's right to reside in Ireland without any time restrictions, providing a clear indication of their entitlement to live in the country without specific conditions.