Thinking of returning to Ireland?
The move back can be as complex as the move over. These organizations can help:
Returning to Ireland
Returning to Ireland Guide from the Irish Times
Useful Links:
Planning to return to Ireland? Here is everything you need to know
Returning to live in Ireland with a child? Here is everything you need to know
I’ve worked abroad for 44 years, am I entitled to an Irish pension?
10 Tips On Returning To Ireland From Our Friends at Crosscare
Are you planning a move home? Advice from others who have taken the plunge is usually the best place to start. 400 recently returned Irish emigrants gave us their top tips for making a successful return. Research, budgeting and preparing yourself emotionally all made the list.
1. Research & budget in advance:
- be prepared for a lot of paperwork and bureaucracy
- trial a short time stay in Ireland before moving back permanently
- apply for any relevant tax refunds
- keep foreign bank account open for tax return
- seek professional advice
- apply for schools before return
- it can take time to access help from public services, including social welfare
- bring all relevant documents
- keep contacts in case of returning to live abroad again
- be prepared for weather, move back in spring or summer
2. Arrange employment:
- try to arrange employment before return
- re-skilling may be necessary
- career opportunities may be limited
- wages may be lower
3. Have savings:
- the cost of living can be expensive, particularly in Dublin
4. Arrange accommodation before return:
- have a place to stay when you return, even if it’s with family
- accommodation in Dublin and other urban area can be very expensive so start your search as early as possible
5. Have realistic expectations:
- commit and prepare mentally
- make the right choice for you
- some former support networks may have moved on
6. It takes time to resettle
- allow time to readjust and settle back into the way of life in Ireland
7. Embrace changes:
- embrace the change in yourself, in Ireland as a country and in the culture
- see it as a new start
- enjoy getting to know the country again and travel
8. Be prepared for the emotional impact:
- it can be emotionally draining to leave established networks in an adopted home
- there may be a ‘culture shock’
- talk to others who have done it
- take time with the decision and think about the reasons for and against it
- know that it might be challenging
- make of a list of challenges and a mental note on how to respond to these
- have a prepared mind-set, keep positive, and have specific goals
- look after your mental health
- planning a trip back to the country of return can help with the transition
9. Shop around for car insurance:
- insurance can be expensive
- access can depend on experience and exchanging a foreign driving licence
- it can take 12 months to exchange foreign drivers licence
- try to arrange to be a named driver on an existing policy if possible
10. Reach out to family for support:
- speak to family and friends in Ireland about what life is like here
- reconnect with friends before you return and make time to make new ones
