Use this relocation checklist to plan your move from the UK to Ireland with confidence. From taxes and healthcare to property and currency management, early planning and specialist advice will help ensure a smooth transition.
Moving to Ireland from the UK feels familiar at first glance. The shared language, similar culture and historic ties make it seem like a simple step across the Irish Sea. In truth, compared to moving to other countries, it is definitely a lot more straight forward.
Yet the practical and financial differences quickly emerge once you start planning.
Ireland has a separate healthcare system, a different currency, distinct tax rules that might sound similar but are anything but and a different property market structure.
Getting these details right early on can make the transition smoother, cheaper and far less stressful.
This checklist outlines the essential steps for anyone relocating from the UK to Ireland, from your first research phase to settling into your new home.
The information in this article is for general guidance only and should not be relied upon as professional advice. Always seek independent tax, legal or financial advice before making decisions related to relocation or investments.
Begin by exploring where you want to live as Ireland’s cost of living varies widely from city to city. Dublin and Cork are considerably more expensive than regional areas such as Limerick, Galway or Waterford. Think about work opportunities, proximity to family, transport links and lifestyle.
If possible, visit your preferred areas and stay for at least a week. This helps you get a realistic feel for day-to-day life, from housing and local services to community atmosphere.
Read our article about choosing where to live in Ireland >
British and Irish citizens benefit from the Common Travel Area (CTA), which allows free movement and residence between the two countries. However, non-British family members may still require immigration clearance.
If you hold another nationality, check the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website for up-to-date entry and residence requirements.
Your UK tax residency may end once you move, but this depends on the Statutory Residence Test and how many days you spend in each country. You’ll also need to inform HMRC when you leave the UK, typically using the P85 form.
At the same time, familiarise yourself with Irish tax residency and how split-year treatment works. Income earned after becoming Irish tax resident may need to be declared to Revenue. Professional advice can help you avoid double taxation and missed reporting deadlines.
Read more: Understanding Irish tax for British expats
List your assets, income sources and regular payments across both currencies. Consider getting advice about whether you need to :
Speak to a financial adviser who understands both UK and Irish systems, particularly around pensions, ISAs, and long-term investment planning.
If you have parents or close family still living in the UK, start creating a plan for how you’ll stay involved in their care. Moving to Ireland doesn’t mean losing connection, but distance can make emergencies and decision-making harder to manage.
Agree regular communication routines and identify who can step in locally if urgent help is needed. For elderly relatives, ensure medical details and next-of-kin contacts are clearly recorded and accessible. It’s also wise to discuss long-term care preferences and practical matters such as wills or funeral arrangements early, so everyone understands your relatives’ wishes.
Read more: Guide to moving abroad when parents are ageing
Decide whether you’ll rent initially or buy immediately. Renting gives you flexibility while learning the market. Buying can take time, as Irish mortgage lenders apply strict affordability checks and typically require larger deposits than in the UK.
If you plan to buy, engage a local solicitor and ensure you understand stamp duty, conveyancing costs and property taxes.
Even though moving between the UK and Ireland doesn’t involve traditional customs borders, you’ll still need documentation for household goods and vehicles. Use a removals company experienced in cross-channel relocations.
Ask for itemised quotes and confirm insurance coverage for high-value items.
Ireland’s healthcare system is run by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and differs from the NHS. Many new arrivals take out private health insurance to supplement public care.
If you’re a British national, you can still use your GHIC card for temporary visits, but it doesn’t cover long-term residence. Register with a local GP once you move.
Read more: How to register with the Irish healthcare system
You’ll be moving from pounds to euros, so plan ahead to manage currency exposure. Compare FX providers and bank options that support both currencies. Locking in exchange rates for large transfers can help stabilise your budget.
Read more: International money transfers and currency management
Ireland has specific requirements for pet vaccinations and microchipping. If importing a vehicle, check VAT, registration tax and insurance conditions.
Avoid last-minute conversions.
Moving large sums between currencies shortly before you relocate can expose you to exchange rate volatility. Plan staged transfers or use forward contracts if available through your FX provider.
Your Personal Public Service (PPS) number is essential for working, accessing healthcare and interacting with public services. You can apply online or at a local Intreo centre once you have proof of address.
Open an Irish bank account, register with a local GP, set up utilities, and ensure you have adequate insurance for your property, car and health.
If you arrive mid-year, you may qualify for split-year treatment, meaning part of your income remains taxable in the UK and the rest in Ireland. Keep detailed records of your travel dates and professional advice to ensure accurate declarations.
Moving abroad isn’t just about logistics. Take time to build a social network, understand local customs and register for community events or sports clubs.
From a financial perspective, review your investments, pensions and estate planning annually. Irish inheritance and capital gains tax rules differ significantly from the UK, and advice early on can prevent costly surprises later.
Read more: Financial planning for British expats moving to Ireland
