Ireland
English-speaking EU country with friendly population and strong tech industry. Dublin is a European tech hub (Google, Meta, Apple). As EU member, full freedom of movement for EU citizens. High quality of life despite high cost of living.
Important Notice: No Individual Advice
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute individual legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult qualified professionals for personal decisions.
Key Metrics
Cost of Living
Cost Breakdown
Quality of Life
Taxes
Tax information for Ireland
Tax resident if present ≥183 days in tax year, or ≥280 days over two consecutive years (min. 31 days each year). Also if ordinarily resident after 3 years.
2024
October 31st following year (paper), November 14th (online via ROS)
No - worldwide income
Irish Tax System: Income Tax + USC + PRSI
Additional charge on gross income: 0.5% (€0-12,012), 2% (€12,012-25,760), 4% (€25,760-70,044), 8% (over €70,044). Medical card holders: max. 2%.
4% employee contribution (Class A), 11.05% employer contribution. Funds State Pension, Jobseeker's Benefit, Illness Benefit. Exemption €352/week.
Direct tax reduction: Single Person Credit €1,875, Married Credit €3,750, Employee Credit €1,875, Home Carer Credit €1,800. Reduce tax liability 1:1.
Special Assignee Relief Programme: 30% of income above €100,000 tax-free for assigned expats. Max. 5 years. Minimum salary €100,000.
Income Tax
Simple 2-tier system: 20% standard rate up to €42,000(single, 2024), then 40% higher rate. BUT: Additional USC (0.5-8%) and PRSI (4%) = effectively up to 52%.
| From | To | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| €0 | €42,000 | 20% |
| €42,000 | Unlimited | 40% |
Married one income: €51,000at standard rate. Tax credits (€1,875single, €3,750married) reduce tax liability directly.
Pension Tax
Pensions taxed as income (20%/40% + USC). State Pension (Contributory) max €277/week (2024). Occupational pensions: contributions tax-deductible up to age limits.
PRSI-free from age 66. Approved Retirement Funds (ARF): flexible access, but taxed as income.
Capital Gains Tax
33% Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on gains above €1,270annual exemption. Entrepreneur Relief: 10% on first €1M of qualifying business disposals.
| From | To | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| €0 | €1,270 | 0% |
| €1,270 | Unlimited | 33% |
Preliminary tax: December 15th (Jan-Nov gains), January 31st (Dec gains). Losses can be carried forward.
Dividend Tax
Dividends taxed as income (20%/40% + USC + PRSI). No separate dividend tax, but effective rate up to 52% for higher rate taxpayers.
Dividend Withholding Tax (DWT) 25% withheld at source and credited against tax liability.
Wealth Tax
No wealth tax. BUT: Local Property Tax (LPT) on property: 0.1029% up to €1M, 0.25% above.
Inheritance Tax
33% Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT). Generous thresholds: Group A (children) €335,000, Group B (siblings/parents) €32,500, Group C (others) €16,250.
| From | To | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| €0 | €335,000 | 0% |
| €335,000 | Unlimited | 33% |
VAT
23%23% standard VAT. Important: Basic food, children's clothing and books are 0% (not just reduced). VAT registration threshold: €37,500 (services), €75,000 (goods).
Important Notice
This is not tax advice. Irish tax system (Income Tax + USC + PRSI) is complex. Consult an Irish Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) or Accountant.
This is not tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws change frequently and can be complex. The information provided is for general informational purposes only. Please consult a tax advisor licensed in Ireland for your specific situation.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Ireland
HSE (Health Service Executive) public system + private sector. Medical Card for low-income households. GP Visit Card for middle incomes.
Not mandatory, but private supplementary insurance very common (~46% of population). Employers often offer private insurance as benefit.
Expat Access
EU citizens: Full HSE access with European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU: After 1 year ordinary residence. GP visits €50-70 without Medical Card.
Excellent, shorter wait times than HSE. Major providers: VHI, Laya, Irish Life Health. English-speaking.
€80-200/month recommended for faster access and consultant choice. Corporate plans often cheaper.
Costs
Education & Childcare
Education system in Ireland
Ireland has an English-speaking education system of good quality. Compulsory schooling 6-16 years. The Irish Leaving Certificate is equivalent to Abitur. Trinity College Dublin is world-renowned.
Childcare
Dublin: Waiting lists for childcare common, 6-12 months. Outside Dublin better availability. National Childcare Scheme (NCS) subsidizes costs.
Primary & Secondary School
International schools
Higher Education
EU citizens pay only Student Contribution (~€3,000/year). Non-EU: €9,000-25,000. Trinity College Dublin in global top 100. SUSI Grant for those in need.
For Expat Families
Very accessible. Public schools in English. Many accept international children. German School St. Kilian's in Dublin available.
All schools in English - no language barrier! Irish is mandatory subject but exemption available for expats. EAL (English as Additional Language) support available.
For full integration: public school. For German-language education: St. Kilian's German School. Apply for Irish exemption immediately. Childcare: Long waiting lists - register early!
Pros
- •English as teaching language - no language barrier
- •EU citizens: Low tuition fees (€3,000)
- •Trinity College Dublin globally recognized
- •Leaving Certificate internationally accepted
Cons
- •Childcare expensive (€800-1,200/month)
- •Waiting lists for good schools in Dublin
- •Irish requirement can be challenging for non-native speakers
Notes
The Irish education system is solid and completely English-speaking - ideal for expats. Exemption from Irish can be requested for expat children. German School St. Kilian's in Dublin offers German-language education and Abitur. CAO (Central Applications Office) for university applications.
Language & Communication
Communication in Ireland
Ireland is an English-speaking EU country - the perfect combination for EU citizens without language barrier. Irish (Gaeilge) is second official language but only ~2% speak it as native language. Dublin is extremely international with large expat community.
English Proficiency
English is native and everyday language. Hiberno-English has some Irish characteristics (grammar, vocabulary) but easily understood by Germans. No language courses needed - immediate start possible.
English as native language everywhere. In Gaeltacht regions (west coast, Donegal) Irish is spoken daily, but everyone also speaks English. Dublin very international with many non-native speakers.
Government Services
ALL government services in English - no Irish needed. gov.ie portal completely in English. Revenue (taxes), HSE (health), Citizens Information - all English-speaking.
Excellent digital services. MyGov.ie for central registration. Revenue Online Service (ROS) for taxes. All forms in English (Irish optional).
Daily Life & Communication
Completely in English. Signage often bilingual (English/Irish) but English always present. International supermarkets (Tesco, Lidl, Aldi). Pubs and restaurants English-speaking.
Dublin Bus, Luas (tram), DART (suburban rail) - all in English. Announcements bilingual but English always first. Leap Card app in English.
Completely in English. Doctors, hospitals, pharmacies - all English-speaking. Many international doctors in Dublin.
Completely in English. AIB, Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank - all English-speaking. Online banking and apps in English. N26, Revolut widely used.
Work Environment
100% English-speaking business world. Dublin is European HQ for Google, Meta, Apple, LinkedIn - very international work environment.
Dublin is Europe's #1 tech hub. Big Tech (Google, Meta, Apple, Microsoft, LinkedIn), pharma (Pfizer, GSK), financial services. Cork also has growing tech scene.
Expat Community
Large international community in Dublin. ~17% of population foreign-born. Polish community largest group, followed by UK, Brazil, India. German community growing (tech sector).
InterNations Dublin very active. German-Irish Chamber, German School St. Killian's. Tech meetups (Dublin Tech Summit). Internations.org has large Dublin group.
Learning the Local Language
English is already the national language - no language course needed. For Irish (Gaeilge): Duolingo, Conradh na Gaeilge courses, but optional and only for cultural interest.
English IS the everyday language. Irish is mandatory in schools but no one expects expats to learn it. A few Irish phrases ('Sláinte', 'Craic') show cultural interest.
Tips
- đź’ˇIrish accent: Faster than British English but easy to get used to
- đź’ˇ'Grand' means 'okay/fine' - 'That's grand' = 'That's okay'
- đź’ˇ'Craic' (pronounced 'Crack') = fun, good conversation
- đź’ˇIrish are very direct when offering help - accept it!
Pros
- •English as native language - no language barrier
- •EU country with English as official language (unique with Malta)
- •Friendly, chatty culture - easy social connection
- •International business community in Dublin
Cons
- •Irish accent can be unfamiliar at first
- •Fast speech and local expressions ('grand', 'craic')
- •Irish on signs can be confusing at first
Notes
Ireland is the only EU country (besides Malta) where English is official language - ideal for EU citizens wanting to work in English. The Irish are known for hospitality and chattiness. 'The craic' (fun, good conversation) is central to Irish culture.
Climate Change & Future Outlook
Climate risks in Ireland
Ireland has a mild oceanic climate with moderate climate risks. The Gulf Stream provides mild winters (rarely frost) and cool summers (15-20°C). Main risks: River flooding, coastal erosion and more intense winter storms. As an EU member with good infrastructure, Ireland has high adaptive capacity (ND-GAIN Rank #15).
Climate Scenarios
Switch between IPCC SSP pathways
SSP2-4.5
Current policy trajectory – ~2.7°C warming by 2100, moderate mitigation.
Values are approximations relative to our SSP2-4.5 baseline. They illustrate directional change, not exact national projections.
Overall Climate Risk
Projected risk index (0 = low risk, 100 = extreme risk)
Risk Categories
City-level climate outlook
Localized projections for the key expat metros in Ireland.
Dublin has Ireland's driest climate but increasing flood risks. The Liffey can overflow during heavy rain. Dublin Bay vulnerable during storm surges. Tech hub with good infrastructure for adaptation.
Rarely above 25°C
Check Floodinfo.ie!
Ireland's driest city
- •Dublin Coastal Flooding Protection Project - €2.3B planned
- •Water Supply Project (Shannon Pipeline) for stable supply
- •Coastal areas (Sandymount, Clontarf) vulnerable during storm surge
- •Older flats may have damp issues - check insulation
Cork has Ireland's HIGHEST flood risk! The Lee flooded city centre multiple times (2009, 2012, 2020). €140M flood relief scheme being built. Ireland's mildest climate thanks to Gulf Stream.
City centre flooded multiple times
Significantly more than Dublin
Ireland's mildest city
- •Cork Lower Lee Flood Relief Scheme - €140M (under construction)
- •Morrison's Island Flood Defence Scheme
- •WARNING: City centre (St. Patrick's Street) historically flooded!
- •Cobh and coastal areas: Check storm surge risk
Galway is Ireland's storm capital! Located directly on the Atlantic, the city experiences the strongest winter storms. Heavy rain frequent. The Corrib can flood. Vibrant cultural city with growing tech scene.
Ireland's wettest major city
Directly exposed to Atlantic storms
Cool but mild
- •Galway Coastal Protection Scheme
- •Corrib River Flood Management
- •Waterproof clothing ESSENTIAL - Wind + rain combo frequent!
- •Long Walk/Spanish Arch area at risk during storm surge
Personal climate risk assessment
Tune the analysis to your health profile and comfort level.
Age group
Sensitivity
Risk tolerance
Personalized risk index
Current level: Moderate
Priority risks
Floods & Coastal
Base 62 → Personal 62
Extreme Weather
Base 55 → Personal 55
What to prioritize
- •Prefer elevated districts and buildings with flood-mitigation infrastructure.
- •Look for reliable shelter options and emergency communication plans.
- •Budget for higher insurance/utilities and diversify income streams against climate shocks.
Adaptation Measures
- •Climate Action Plan 2024: Ireland's climate neutrality target 2050
- •OPW Flood Risk Management: €1B+ for flood defenses
- •Offshore wind expansion: 7GW planned by 2030
- •FloodInfo.ie: Public flood risk maps
- •Check OPW Flood Maps before property purchase (FloodInfo.ie)
- •Waterproof clothing essential (rain!)
- •Vitamin D supplementation in winter
Climate Resilience
High adaptive capacity as EU member with access to EU climate funds. OPW (Office of Public Works) coordinates flood protection. Met Éireann provides good weather forecasts. Weaknesses: Older buildings poorly insulated, rural areas vulnerable.
Tips
- đź’ˇCheck FloodInfo.ie before buying property - essential!
- đź’ˇWest coast: More exposed to storms than east coast
- đź’ˇVitamin D in winter (Nov-Mar): Supplementation recommended
- đź’ˇRain jacket always handy - 'Soft day' can arrive quickly
Pros
- •Mild climate without extremes - no heatwaves
- •Excellent air quality (Atlantic winds)
- •Green landscape year-round
- •EU member with access to climate funds
Cons
- •Lots of rain (175 rain days/year)
- •Flood risk along rivers (Shannon, Lee, Liffey)
- •Few sunshine hours (especially winter)
- •West coast very windy and storm-exposed
Notes
Ireland's climate is mild but wet - 'four seasons in one day' is no exaggeration. For expats important: Waterproof clothing essential, Vitamin D in winter. Property: Check flood risk maps (FloodInfo.ie)! The west coast is wilder (more storms/rain), Dublin and east coast drier. Climate change brings more heavy rain but no extreme heatwaves like Southern Europe.
Data sources
Scientific Disclaimer
Climate projections are based on models with inherent uncertainties. Actual outcomes may differ. We present mainstream scientific consensus (IPCC) but acknowledge uncertainty ranges. This is not financial advice. Consult climate scientists and experts for specific decisions.
Safety & Security
Safety & Crime in Ireland
Safety Indicators
Comparison with DACH Region
For comparison: Germany (CPI: 78), Austria (CPI: 71), Switzerland (CPI: 82)
Notes
Ireland is generally very safe. Dublin has some areas with higher crime (North Inner City). Rural areas very safe.
Visa & Immigration
Immigration Options for Ireland
Visa Options
EU/EEA Freedom of Movement
EU citizens: No visa needed! Full freedom of movement. Only registration if staying >3 months. Apply for PPS Number (like social security) for work.
Critical Skills Employment Permit
For shortage occupations (IT, engineering, healthcare, finance). Min salary €38,000 (shortage) or €64,000 (other). Immediate path to Stamp 4 (permanent residence) after 2 years. Best path for non-EU tech workers.
General Employment Permit
Standard work visa for non-EU. Min salary €34,000. Labor market test required (4 weeks job posting). After 5 years → Stamp 4. Not for shortage occupations.
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
For innovative startups. €50,000 funding required. Business plan must be evaluated by Enterprise Ireland. 2 years, renewable to 5. No investment visa for passive investors.
Working Holiday Visa
For 18-30 year olds from certain countries (Canada, Australia, Japan, etc.). 1 year. Germany NOT included!
Path to Permanent Residency
EU CITIZENS: Full freedom of movement - no visa needed! After 5 years continuous residence → permanent residence. Citizenship after 5 years (4 in Ireland, last year continuous). Dual citizenship allowed. Irish passport = EU passport + visa-free access to USA (ESTA), UK, etc. NON-EU: Critical Skills Permit → Stamp 4 after 2 years. General Permit → Stamp 4 after 5 years. Costs: Naturalization €175.
Important Notice
Visa and immigration regulations change frequently. The information provided is for general informational purposes only. Please consult the official government website or an immigration attorney for current and accurate information.