Population: 4.9 million

Capital city: Dublin

Official languages: Irish and English

Currency: Euro

If you are moving to any country from the UK, it can be difficult to know what visas and permits you are required to have. For those moving to Ireland from the UK, you will be pleased to know that the move is relatively free of confusing documents. According to the Common Travel Agreement (CTA), British expats and Irish citizens can move freely between the countries for work or living without the need for visas, employment permits or residency permits. You must, however, have a valid UK or Ireland passport that is valid for at least another 6 months following your entry to the country. This makes working in Ireland as a British citizen exceedingly easy compared to the complications and bureaucratic red tape associated with further-afield destinations.

There are many benefits of moving to a country so close to the UK. There is no significant language barrier, the climate is largely the same, and travel time is kept to a minimum. Much of Ireland’s culture is similar to that of the UK, though with some distinct and interesting differences. However, there are some changes that come with life in Ireland that you should prepare yourself for.

The cost of living in Ireland may come as a surprise for British citizens relocating to Ireland. Rent costs can be around 30% higher, public transport can cost far more, and even groceries come at a higher price. However, wages in Ireland are also generally higher than in the UK. Despite this, you should check whether you can afford these increased prices before making the move to Ireland.

Please note that many of these things will not apply to you if you are moving from another EU (European Union) State and/or you are a citizen of the EU (European Union) due to the free movement of goods throughout the EU.

Below is a list of the documents you will need when planning an international removal to Ireland:

• Copy of Passport (Of the individual moving/importing the goods)
• Removal packing list – we can complete this if you want us to undertake a full packing service for your removal)
• C&E1076 Transfer of Residence document
• Transfer of Residency (TOR) – PPS Declaration Document
• Original Bill of Lading (OBL) – Express Release Accepted or Alternatively (2 Original non-negotiable copies showing the ocean freight rate) / Air Waybill (AWB) – (We will take care of this if completing the entire international removal to Ireland for you)
• Documentary evidence of residence abroad for at least one year
• Documentary evidence of taking up permanent residence in Ireland
• Resident / Work Permit / Letter of Employment
• Lease / Rental Agreement (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Letter from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs Protocol Section authorizing the release of the consignment from the port (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)
• Form 1076 (applicable only to diplomatic relocations / diplomats moving)

We recommend providing these as soon as possible to reduce delays with your removal to Ireland. Late receipt of documentation can lead to missed shipments, additional charges and penalties at Irish Customs. For your own protection, we will almost never ship your goods without the above in place.

International removal companies like GMS will be able to provide assistance with transporting belongings and the necessary bureaucracy that comes with it.

• All goods should be in the ownership of the shipper for at least 6 months prior to import
• Required documents must be received by the agent prior to the arrival of the shipment to minimize any port charges
• The shipper does not need to be present for Customs clearance.
• The shipper should arrive in the country prior to the arrival of the shipment.
• Used household goods may be allowed entry on a duty and tax free basis once the TOR has been verified.
• Imports not deemed qualified as part of a TOR shipment will be subject to duty (variable) and value added tax (VAT) of approximately 23%.

Ireland is a country with relatively sparse population centres. If you have previously visited, you have likely travelled to the capital of Dublin, a bustling and colourful city in the East of the country. One of the most important things to know about Ireland is that Dublin stands out in this way, while other cities and rural areas are much less well-connected, smaller, and with much less to do. While they can be more affordable than the capital, you should definitely do your research before deciding on the best Irish destination for you and your family.

Global Moving Services is vastly experienced in international removals to cities all over the globe. Our long history and detailed knowledge of different countries make us the perfect choice for your move. Here are some of the most popular destinations we are asked to move people to in Ireland:

Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Kilkenny, Derry, Galway, Armagh, Newry, Lisburn  Get a quote to one of these places