First month guide in Dublin

1. 1

   Apply for Your PPS Number

   essential

   The Personal Public Service (PPS) Number is crucial for employment, taxes, and social welfare. Apply online via MyWelfare.ie and attend your appointment promptly.

2. 2

   Open an Irish Bank Account

   essential

   You'll need an Irish bank account for rent, salary, and daily expenses. Popular choices include AIB, Bank of Ireland, or Revolut for a digital option.

3. 3

   Get a Local Mobile SIM Card

   essential

   Stay connected with an Irish phone number. Providers like Three, Vodafone, or Eir offer various pay-as-you-go or contract plans suitable for new arrivals.

4. 4

   Obtain a LEAP Card

   essential

   Essential for public transport. A LEAP Card offers cheaper fares on Dublin Bus, Luas, and DART compared to buying single tickets. Top it up online or at shops.

5. 5

   Register with a GP (Doctor)

   recommended

   Find a local General Practitioner. Registering early is vital for accessing healthcare, even if you are generally healthy. Check the HSE website for clinics.

6. 6

   Understand Irish Tax Credits

   recommended

   Familiarize yourself with tax credits through Revenue.ie. This can reduce your tax burden, so ensure your employer has your correct PPSN and details.

7. 7

   Learn Waste Management Rules

   nice-to-have

   Dublin has specific rules for household waste and recycling. Understand bin collection days and segregation guidelines to avoid fines.

8. 8

   Familiarize with Emergency Services

   essential

   Know that 999 or 112 are the emergency numbers for Gardaí (police), ambulance, and fire services in Ireland. Keep them in mind.

1. 1

   Understand Tenancy Agreements

   essential

   Be clear on your contract type: Lease, Fixed-Term, or Licence Agreement. Know your rights and obligations, especially regarding notice periods and deposits.

2. 2

   Beware of Rental Scams

   essential

   Dublin's competitive market attracts scammers. Never pay a deposit without viewing the property in person and confirming the landlord's identity. Use trusted platforms.

3. 3

   Budget for High Rent Costs

   essential

   Average shared housing rent is €850-€1350. Factor this into your monthly budget, along with utilities, which are often separate.

4. 4

   Set Up Utilities (If Applicable)

   recommended

   If you're responsible for bills, contact providers like ESB Networks (electricity) and Bord Gáis Energy (gas) to set up accounts in your name.

5. 5

   Explore Grocery Shopping Options

   essential

   Supermarkets like Dunnes Stores, Tesco, Lidl, and Aldi are popular. Lidl and Aldi often offer better value for your weekly shop.

6. 6

   Master Dublin's Public Transport

   essential

   Familiarize yourself with Dublin Bus routes, Luas tram lines, and DART commuter rail. Use the TFI Live app for real-time information and planning.

7. 7

   Understand Irish Lingo & Slang

   nice-to-have

   Picking up local phrases like 'What's the craic?' (How are you?) or 'Grand' (Fine) will help you connect with locals and feel more at home.

8. 8

   Locate Your Nearest An Post Office

   recommended

   An Post is the national postal service. You'll need it for sending mail, banking services, and potentially collecting government documents.

1. 1

   Join Local Meetup Groups

   recommended

   Use Meetup.com to find groups based on your interests, from hiking to board games. It's a fantastic way to meet like-minded people in Dublin.

2. 2

   Explore Dublin's Pub Culture

   recommended

   Visit a traditional Irish pub, not just for a drink, but for the social atmosphere, live music (trad sessions), and a taste of local life.

3. 3

   Discover Local Markets

   nice-to-have

   Check out markets like Temple Bar Food Market or the Blackrock Market for unique finds, fresh produce, and a vibrant weekend atmosphere.

4. 4

   Join a Sports Club or Gym

   recommended

   Whether it's GAA, soccer, rugby, or a gym, joining a local club is an excellent way to get active and build a social network.

5. 5

   Visit Free Museums & Galleries

   nice-to-have

   Explore the National Museum of Ireland or the National Gallery of Ireland. Many cultural institutions offer free admission, perfect for budget-friendly outings.

6. 6

   Walk Dublin's Neighbourhoods

   nice-to-have

   Take time to wander through different areas like Portobello, Stoneybatter, or Rathmines to get a feel for the city's diverse character and hidden gems.

7. 7

   Attend University Society Events

   recommended

   If you're a student, engage with university societies. They host numerous events, offering a quick way to make friends and explore new hobbies.

8. 8

   Volunteer for a Local Cause

   nice-to-have

   Volunteering is a rewarding way to meet people, contribute to the community, and gain local experience. Check sites like Volunteer Ireland.

• Always have physical and digital copies of your references ready for housing viewings; decision-making is rapid due to high demand.
• Invest in a good rain jacket and waterproof shoes; Dublin's weather is famously unpredictable, even in summer.
• Join 'Dublin Expats' or 'Rooms for Rent Dublin' Facebook groups for real-time housing leads and community advice.
• Download the 'Dublin Bus' and 'Luas' apps for live tracking and accurate journey planning, saving you waiting time.
• When exploring pubs, venture beyond Temple Bar for more authentic and less expensive experiences in local areas.

This information is specifically tailored for Dublin, Ireland, addressing its unique housing market, the necessity of obtaining a PPS Number for all public services, and navigating its distinct public transport network including Dublin Bus, DART, and Luas. It provides a localized perspective on settling into Irish life.

• Best neighborhoods
• Cost of living
• Moving checklist
• Student discounts
• Public transport
• Pet-Friendly living
• Remote work cafés
• Neighbourhoods

• Rental contracts
• Tenant rights
• Deposit protection
• Registration guide
• Flatshare etiquette
• Phone & internet