Guide · First-week essentials
First-week admin in Ireland, in the right order.
PPS number, immigration registration, bank, GP, driving licence, shipping and pets — the practical work of the first weeks in Ireland, sequenced so nothing gets missed. Educational overview only.
Six first-week tasks
Sequenced the way we actually manage them.
- 01
Immigration registration
For non-EU/EEA arrivals whose permission requires registration, this is generally the first appointment to book. Independent counsel confirms whether and when it applies to your permission.
- 02
PPS number
Book at a PPS number appointment centre. Bring photo ID, proof of Irish address and evidence of the reason you need a PPS number (typically employment, tenancy or public service registration).
- 03
Bank account
Most Irish banks require proof of Irish address to open a full current account. Some digital-first accounts can be opened before arrival with more limited features. PPS often unlocks additional bank functionality.
- 04
GP registration
Register with a local GP practice for routine care. Private health insurance policies purchased pre-arrival typically activate on move date and give access to private consultants and hospitals.
- 05
Utilities and internet
Set up electricity, gas (if applicable), broadband and refuse collection. Providers vary by area; the most useful shortlist comes from your area agent or SettleDone, not price-comparison sites.
- 06
Driving licence
US-state licences are generally not directly exchangeable in Ireland. Plan for a learner permit and the Irish driving-test process — this is a multi-month workstream, not a first-week fix.
Shipping, pets and vehicles
The heavier logistics that need to be planned earlier.
Shipping household goods
A specialist international mover surveys your US home, quotes on volume and container size (typically 20ft or 40ft), and manages origin, ocean, port clearance and inland delivery. Insurance is a separate decision and worth taking seriously.
Timelines and clearance
Door-to-door timelines from US to Ireland are typically several weeks and can vary with port congestion. Certain items are restricted or prohibited — your mover will confirm before packing.
Bringing pets from the US
Ireland has specific pet-import rules for animals arriving from the US, including microchip, rabies vaccination and certified health documentation. Only approved routes may be used. Start the clock at least three months before travel.
Vehicles
Importing a US vehicle to Ireland is technically possible but rarely economical once VRT and compliance modifications are factored in. Most US arrivals sell in the US and buy or lease locally.
Moving to Ireland soon
Have the first-week admin coordinated for you, not left to chance.
Ways to work with us
Coordinated first-week support
Every programme includes managed first-week admin.
Discovery Call
Complimentary 30-minute fit and scoping conversation. No obligation to proceed.
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Standalone written blueprint mapping sequencing, dependencies and provider requirements for a relocation and/or expansion.
Explore Relocation & Expansion BlueprintPersonal Relocation
Coordinated managed programme for an individual relocating to a supported destination.
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Coordinated managed programme for a household relocating to a supported destination.
Explore Family Relocation
Common questions
First-week essentials — frequently asked.
- Your Personal Public Service (PPS) number is the identifier used to access Irish public services, register for tax, receive salary through Irish payroll, register with a GP and open certain financial products. You typically apply after arrival in Ireland at a designated appointment; supporting evidence of address and identity is required. Waiting to apply is one of the most common reasons a first month gets delayed.
Next step
Do not leave your first month to chance.
A complimentary 30-minute Discovery Call. No obligation. A clear recommendation of the right next step.