i4i - Ireland for Italians

Does an Italian citizen have the right to live and work in Ireland?

Italian citizens have the right to live and work in the Republic of Ireland (EIRE) without any special permits, due to our shared membership in the EU.

To work in Ireland, pay taxes, and access certain rights or services, it is necessary to first apply for and obtain a PPS Number (similar to italian tax code - codice fiscale). For most jobs, and for practical reasons, having an Irish bank account is also required. For instance, Irish companies typically do not make salary payments to foreign accounts.

What is the PPS Number?

The PPS Number (PPSN) in Ireland is roughly equivalent to the Italian tax code. It is issued upon request along with the Public Services Card (PSC), which resembles our health card. To apply for a PPS Number, an appointment must be scheduled either in person or over the phone at a PPS Number Registration Centre. Alternatively, it can be done online through the MyWelfare website at the link https://services.mywelfare.ie/en/topics/appointments/. However, completing the application requires a personal visit. Having a PPSN is necessary to access social and healthcare services, engage in employment activities, pay taxes, and more. For those considering moving and working in Ireland, one of the first steps is to apply for a PPSN.

Fac-simile della Public Services Card

To obtain a PPSN in Ireland, proof of residency is required. For example, a hotel address is not accepted. At the time of application, you must provide your own residential address, even if it's temporary or shared with others. If your address changes later on, you can notify the authorities of the new address. As proof of address, you can request a letter from your landlord certifying your residency.

In general, utility bills or bank statements can be used as proof of address in Ireland. However, these may not be available in the early stages of relocation for obvious reasons. There is no concept of a residency certificate or self-certification. You must provide evidence of residency.

The PPSN and the corresponding social card will be sent to the provided residential address. To apply, each member of the household must show a document such as a passport or identity card.

Married individuals may be asked to provide an international marriage certificate obtained from the municipality where the marriage took place.

Additional useful links for obtaining information are as follows:i:

Are salaries and wages higher in Ireland compared to Italy?

On average, the cost of living in Ireland, especially in Dublin and Cork, is higher than in Italy. Consequently, salaries and wages are also generally higher. Additionally, the amount of direct taxes, especially for lower to medium incomes, is slightly lower, resulting in a certain tax advantage when comparing gross salaries. However, it is important to note that unlike Italy, Ireland does not have the concept of a 13th-month salary or severance pay (TFR). Any comparison of net monthly salaries should take these factors into account.

If you have received a job offer and need to calculate your net salary, there are several websites that provide tax calculators to help you determine your net income. Here are a few recommended options:

I dati sono aggiornati a settembre 2019.

How much does it cost to rent accommodation in Ireland?

The cost of accommodation in Ireland is significantly higher compared to Italy. The price for a one-bedroom apartment with one bathroom can reach and exceed 1800 euros per month. For two-bedroom apartments, the cost can surpass 2000 euros. However, this is not an average across the entire country but rather typical costs in central or well-connected areas of Dublin and Cork, the two main cities. Generally, rental prices of over a thousand euros should be expected almost everywhere unless living in rural areas with limited amenities.

Sharing accommodation is quite common among younger expats. Additionally, there are Irish and non-Irish families who rent out individual rooms, independent with a bathroom, or small units within larger houses, at relatively reasonable prices.

The cost of rent is a pressing issue for both expats and Irish residents, particularly the younger generation. However, political solutions to address this problem seem to be lacking, except for insufficient attempts to build affordable housing for those with lower incomes or impose rent caps in high-demand areas (which are often circumvented). These measures have not significantly altered the situation, which appears to be worsening (at least from the perspective of those who have to pay rent). This aspect should be carefully considered when deciding to move to this country.

Is knowledge of English necessary to work in Ireland?

Knowledge of English is necessary to work (and live) in Ireland. If you have a good understanding of basic English, you can improve over time through practice and exposure to native speakers. The required starting level of proficiency also depends on the specific job you will be doing. Generally, if you are able to successfully interview for a job, it is reasonable to assume that your initial level of English is considered sufficient. There are many language courses available for foreigners that can be helpful and preparatory for better integration.

What is the weather like in Ireland ?

The temperatures in Ireland generally range around 12 degrees Celsius throughout the year. They are slightly higher in summer, with occasional peaks of 25 degrees or more, and lower in winter, with values around or near freezing, but only for a few days each year. In simple terms, it never gets too hot or too cold, likely due to the air currents that move from the Atlantic Ocean towards the mainland.

The downside is that it often rains, sometimes for prolonged periods. However, the rainfall is rarely heavy or in the form of downpours. The weather is characterized by high variability or predominantly cloudy conditions. This means that moments of sunshine (or clouds) can alternate with rain several times in a single day, and the likelihood of having extended periods without rain is quite low.

Rainfall is generally lower in Dublin compared to the south and west regions of Ireland, such as Cork and Galway, where the influence of the Atlantic Ocean is more pronounced in this regard.

Snow and intense heat are uncommon phenomena in Ireland, especially the latter. However, in recent years, likely due to global temperature rise, there have been occurrences of snowfall and prolonged periods of good weather, both of which are rather unusual.

Recommended reading:https://www.met.ie/climate/climate-of-ireland

What is the best city to live in Ireland?

Dublin is the largest city and capital of Ireland. It is better connected with international flights compared to Cork, which also has a convenient airport. Dublin is definitely more chaotic, especially in the city center. Its main attractions are the numerous pubs crowded with Irish music and beer enthusiasts. There are plenty of job opportunities here, and it tends to be less "rainy" than the rest of Ireland..

Cork, located in the south, is widely regarded as one of the best cities in Ireland in terms of quality of life and amenities. Its residents are known for their friendliness, kindness, and welcoming nature. As the second-largest city in the country, Cork offers a host of appealing characteristics. It boasts a vibrant cultural scene and is in close proximity to various tourist attractions. Additionally, it is conveniently situated near one of Ireland's most stunning areas, the Ring of Kerry. While the cost of living in Cork is slightly lower than in Dublin, it remains higher than in other parts of Ireland. If you seek a lively and multicultural city that strikes a balance between vibrancy and tranquility, Cork is the perfect choice for you.

Galway, although considerably smaller than the previous two cities, possesses a unique charm of its own. As a popular tourist destination, it is in close proximity to renowned attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. If you have a fondness for small coastal towns, Galway is a place that is sure to captivate you. Its distinctive atmosphere and coastal location make it an appealing choice for those seeking a picturesque setting.

Is Ireland a safe country?

Ireland is generally considered a safe country. Safety levels can vary within different areas, with smaller towns often being perceived as safer than larger cities. Cork and Galway are often regarded as the safest cities in Ireland, while areas of Drogheda, Dublin, and Limerick may have higher crime rates. However, it's important to note that each city has both safe and less safe neighborhoods. According to the Global Finance rankings in 2019, Ireland ranked 16th out of 128 countries as one of the safest countries worldwide (source: https://www.gfmag.com/global-data/non-economic-data/worlds-safest-countries-2019). Another source, World Population Review, also lists Ireland among the top 10 safest countries globally (source: http://worldpopulationreview.com/countries/safest-countries-in-the-world/). It's always advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings regardless of the location you're in.

How is transportation in Ireland?

Public transportation in Ireland relies mainly on buses for both urban and intercity travel. In Dublin, in addition to buses, there are two tram lines (LUAS) and a suburban train service (DART) that runs along the coast, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors alike.

The DART and LUAS systems are known for their efficiency and reliability, offering a convenient way to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. The DART, in particular, is popular among commuters living along the coastal regions east of Dublin.

When it comes to bus services, their quality and coverage can vary depending on the specific areas and the time of day. During peak hours, buses may experience delays due to traffic congestion, but overall, the service is considered to be good, especially during off-peak times.

For intercity travel, trains are a viable option, connecting major cities and some smaller towns. Although Ireland doesn't have high-speed trains, the train services provide a comfortable and reasonably efficient means of transportation.

To make public transportation more accessible and affordable, the Leap card system is available, offering significant discounts on fares for regular commuters. Additionally, employers often provide subscription options for their employees, allowing them to purchase travel passes with pre-tax deductions from their gross salary. This arrangement can result in substantial savings, as the cost of the subscription is covered by the gross salary, reducing the taxable income.

Overall, Ireland's public transportation system, with its bus, tram, and train services, provides a reliable and convenient way to get around the country for both residents and visitors.

What is the food culture like in Ireland?

In Ireland, dining options abound with a variety of restaurants and pubs offering a taste of traditional Irish cuisine. The culinary scene revolves around quality meats such as beef, poultry, pork, and lamb, prepared in delicious and hearty ways. When it comes to side dishes, potatoes take the spotlight, whether they're crispy fries or creamy mashed potatoes. And no Irish meal is complete without a comforting bowl of homemade soup, often a flavorful vegetable purée.

For seafood enthusiasts, the coastal country offers delightful options like succulent salmon and tender cod, which are frequently featured in popular dishes like fish and chips. Another noteworthy specialty is the rich and flavorful chowder, a creamy soup brimming with seafood and hearty ingredients.

Beyond Irish fare, Ireland embraces its multicultural atmosphere, with a diverse range of international and ethnic restaurants. Italian cuisine is particularly well-represented, though it's important to note that the flavors may differ from those found in Italy. You can still indulge in pasta, pizza, and other Italian delights, adapting to local tastes and ingredients.

Whether you choose to savor traditional Irish dishes or explore the international flavors, Ireland offers a vibrant and diverse culinary experience for all palates.

In Ireland, supermarkets offer a wide range of products, including imported vegetables and fruits. Olive oil, sourced from Spain, Italy, and Greece, adds a Mediterranean touch to the culinary scene. When it comes to wines, you'll find selections from Spain, France, Italy, Chile, and Australia, providing diverse options for wine enthusiasts.

However, it's worth noting that the variety of products available in Ireland may differ from what you're accustomed to in Italy. Some Italian favorites might require a bit of searching, and prices for imported items can be higher. On the other hand, essential groceries such as eggs, milk, meats, salmon, and cod are generally affordable and of good quality, often sourced locally in Ireland.

When it comes to beverages, Irish beer is renowned for its flavor and craftsmanship, although it may not be considered budget-friendly. The same can be said for other alcoholic drinks, as prices for spirits and imported beverages tend to be higher. Nonetheless, exploring the local brews and enjoying the unique pub culture is an essential part of experiencing the Irish culinary scene.

How does the healthcare system function in Ireland?

In Ireland, there is a combination of public and private healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. While public hospitals are not entirely free, individuals who possess the Medical Card can avail themselves of certain benefits. It is worth considering the option of health insurance, as it provides various coverage options based on the premium paid.

Additionally, some companies provide healthcare coverage as a benefit for their employees and their families. However, it's important to note that the cost of medical insurance for a family of two adults and one child can easily exceed 3000 euros per year.

Expats, including Italians, often perceive the Irish healthcare system to be inferior to that of their home country. This perception can be supported by objective data from reports comparing healthcare systems in Europe, such as the following: https://healthpowerhouse.com/media/EHCI-2018/EHCI-2018-report.pdf

Google Sites

Report abuse