Moving to Ireland from the US: A complete guide for expats

Moving to Ireland from the US can be an exciting adventure. Known for its friendly people, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes, Ireland is a top destination for American expats.

Whether you're seeking work opportunities, a slower pace of life, or a vibrant expat community, Ireland offers a welcoming environment.

However, it’s important to understand the logistics of relocating — from visas to finding the right place to live.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about moving to Ireland, including legal options, cost of living, and working as an American in Ireland.

Living in Ireland as an American

Living in Ireland as an American offers a unique experience. While English is the primary language, many Irish people speak Irish Gaelic as well, which adds a distinct local flavor to daily life.

The culture is rich in history, with a strong sense of community, especially in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway. However, it’s important to adapt to the slightly different social customs and the often wet, cold weather.

Public transport is reliable, and healthcare is affordable, though many expats opt for private insurance to reduce wait times for non-emergency services.

Legal ways to move to Ireland

There are several pathways for Americans considering moving to Ireland from the US, depending on your personal and professional circumstances.

Below are some of the most common legal ways to move to Ireland, each requiring different documentation and processes.

1. Moving to Ireland for work

One of the most straightforward ways to move to Ireland is by securing a job that qualifies you for an Irish work permit.

There are several work permits available depending on your skills, including the Critical Skills Employment Permit (for highly skilled workers) and the General Employment Permit.

To apply, you’ll need a job offer from an Irish employer who has been approved to sponsor foreign workers.

The application is typically done through Ireland’s Department of Business, Enterprise, and Innovation.

2. Emigrate to Ireland based on a de facto relationship

If you’re in a long-term, committed relationship with an Irish citizen or a legal resident, you may be eligible to move to Ireland on the basis of this relationship.

You will need to provide evidence of your relationship (such as living together for at least 2 years), and the Irish partner must meet certain income requirements.

The application can be submitted to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS).

3. Moving to Ireland as a family member of an employment permit holder

If you are the spouse or dependent family member of someone holding a valid Irish employment permit, you can apply for a visa to join them in Ireland.

This process allows you to live and potentially work in Ireland while your spouse or partner works on their employment permit.

This pathway helps family members reunite while supporting an expat's ability to work and live in the country.

4. Moving to Ireland to study

For Americans looking to study in Ireland, you can apply for a Study Visa.

Ireland is home to numerous prestigious universities and colleges, making it a popular destination for students. Once approved, this visa allows you to live in Ireland for the duration of your studies.

Additionally, students may be allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week during term time) to support themselves financially.

5. Emigration through family ties

If you have Irish ancestry, you may qualify for Irish citizenship by descent. This is a common route for individuals with grandparents or great-grandparents born in Ireland.

You will need to provide documentation proving your heritage and go through an application process with the Irish embassy.

This route allows you to become an Irish citizen and move to Ireland without needing a visa.

6. Other emigration routes to Ireland

There are additional routes for those who might qualify under specific circumstances, such as the Investor Visa, which allows high-net-worth individuals to invest in Irish business or government bonds to gain residency.

Additionally, the Start-up Entrepreneur Program is available for those planning to start a business in Ireland, providing another avenue for immigrating to Ireland from the US.

Working in Ireland as an American

For Americans moving to Ireland, working in the country can be an exciting opportunity. Ireland’s economy is strong, particularly in sectors like tech, pharmaceuticals, finance, and education.

Many American companies, including Google, Facebook, and Apple, have a significant presence in Ireland.

The work culture in Ireland is more relaxed compared to the US, with a focus on work-life balance, but expectations are high for skilled professionals. Expats typically find it easier to secure jobs if they have in-demand skills or experience in industries with high demand.

Obtaining an Irish work permit is a crucial step, and the process is straightforward if you have a valid job offer. Ireland’s friendly, English-speaking environment makes it an ideal destination for American professionals looking to grow their careers abroad.

Cost of living in Ireland

Ireland's cost of living can vary significantly depending on the location. In cities like Dublin, you will find higher living costs, particularly for housing and dining out.

However, the quality of life in the city is top-notch, with access to excellent healthcare, public transport, and a thriving job market, especially in sectors like technology, finance, and pharmaceuticals.

Average costs

• Housing:
  - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Dublin city center is typically €1,500–€2,200 per month, while outside the city center, you can find rentals for €1,200–€1,500.
  - In Cork or Galway, rental prices are generally lower, with €1,200–€1,600 per month in the city center and €900–€1,300 outside it.
• Groceries: For two people, grocery costs range from €300–€500 per month, depending on eating habits and whether you shop at local markets or larger stores.
• Utilities: Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) typically cost around €120–€200 per month for an average-sized apartment.
• Transportation: Public transport in Dublin costs €100–€150 per month for a travel pass. Outside the city, you may rely on a car, where fuel costs around €1.40 per liter.

Lifestyle

Dining out in Ireland can be affordable, with an average meal at a casual restaurant costing about €12–€20.

However, in Dublin, eating out regularly at higher-end restaurants can significantly increase your monthly expenses.

Visual example: Below is an example of a typical monthly expense breakdown for an individual living in Dublin:

Best places to live in Ireland for US expats

Ireland offers a variety of places for US expats to settle down, whether you're seeking the hustle and bustle of a city or a quieter countryside life.

Here's a breakdown of some of the best places to live in Ireland for Americans.

• Dublin
  Dublin is Ireland’s capital and the hub for most expats. The city offers a high-quality lifestyle, excellent public services, and abundant job opportunities, especially in the technology and finance sectors. However, the cost of living in Dublin is high, particularly for housing.
  
  Despite this, it is the ideal place for young professionals and those seeking an international city feel. The presence of global companies like Google, Facebook, and Apple makes it a prime location for expats with a tech background.
• Cork
  Cork, often referred to as the second city of Ireland, is more affordable than Dublin and is quickly becoming a tech and pharmaceutical hub. The city is home to many multinational companies, offering plenty of job opportunities in tech, healthcare, and business services.
  
  It’s a bit smaller than Dublin but boasts a beautiful city center, lively cultural events, and a slower pace of life, making it an attractive option for families and those looking for work-life balance.
• Galway
  For those looking for a cultural hub, Galway is ideal. Known for its artistic community, vibrant festivals, and thriving music scene, Galway is a haven for remote workers and creatives.
  
  While job opportunities are more limited than in Dublin or Cork, Galway offers a charming lifestyle by the coast, perfect for those wanting to live in a city with a strong community feel and excellent local food scene.
• Limerick
  Limerick is an affordable city with a growing job market, especially in the tech and engineering sectors. The cost of living is much lower compared to Dublin and Cork, and it offers a variety of affordable housing options.
  
  The city is developing rapidly, with many young professionals choosing it as an alternative to more expensive cities.
• Countryside options
  If you prefer a quieter lifestyle, Ireland’s countryside offers charming villages and towns with lower living costs. Areas like County Clare, County Kerry, and County Wicklow provide a tranquil setting with access to nature, outdoor activities, and friendly communities.
  
  These areas are perfect for those looking for a slower-paced life while still having access to cities via public transport or car.

Taxes for US expats in Ireland

As a US expat in Ireland, you’ll need to navigate both US and Irish tax systems. Ireland has a progressive tax system, meaning the higher your income, the higher the percentage you will pay.

Additionally, under the US-Ireland tax treaty, you may be able to avoid double taxation through the Foreign Tax Credit and other exclusions.

Pros and cons of moving to Ireland from America

Moving to Ireland comes with both benefits and challenges, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

Pros:

• Rich cultural experience with a vibrant music and arts scene.
• Great healthcare system with affordable options (especially public healthcare).
• Friendly people and a welcoming expat community.
• Good work-life balance and job opportunities in various sectors like tech, pharma, and finance.

Cons:

• High cost of living, particularly in Dublin.
• Weather can be gloomy with frequent rainfall, which may not suit everyone.
• Bureaucratic red tape in terms of visa and immigration processes.
• Housing shortages, especially in urban areas, making it difficult to find affordable accommodation.

While Ireland offers a great quality of life, the higher cost of living and unpredictable weather can be drawbacks for some expats.