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Digital Nomad Exchange > Ireland

Ireland

  Coastal   Beaches  

Ireland, known as the Emerald Isle due to its lush greenery and rolling hills, is a country steeped in rich history and culture. Located to the northwest of continental Europe, it is the third-largest island in Europe and the twentieth-largest on Earth. Ireland is politically divided between the Republic of Ireland, which covers five-sixths of the island, and Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom. The country's landscape is characterized by a mix of flat plains and rugged Atlantic coastline, with numerous cliffs and sandy beaches. The River Shannon, the longest river in Ireland, flows through its lush countryside. The climate in Ireland is typically maritime with mild winters, cool summers, and a lack of temperature extremes. The Irish culture is known for its contributions to literature, music, and dance, with the country producing several Nobel laureates in literature. Dublin, the capital city, is the birthplace of writers like James Joyce and W.B. Yeats. Ireland's economy is modern and trade-dependent with growth averaging a robust 7% from 1995-2007. However, the global financial crisis in 2008 impacted the economy significantly, leading to a period of economic adjustment. The country has since recovered and is known for its high standard of living, with a strong presence of multinational corporations, particularly in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors. The Irish are known for their friendliness and hospitality, contributing to Ireland's reputation as a welcoming country. The nation has a rich heritage of folklore and traditions, such as the celebration of St. Patrick's Day. Ireland's pub culture is also a central aspect of social life, with traditional music often played live in pubs across the country. Tourism is a significant industry in Ireland, with the country's natural beauty, historic castles, and cultural experiences attracting visitors from around the world. The Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland are just a few of the natural wonders that Ireland has to offer. The country's history is also a draw, with ancient sites like the prehistoric Newgrange and the medieval Rock of Cashel. Despite its small size, Ireland has made a substantial impact on the global stage, both culturally and economically, and continues to maintain a unique and influential presence in Europe and beyond.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Ireland is considered high, with Dublin often ranking as one of the most expensive cities in Europe. Housing, in particular, can be quite costly, and the overall expenses for goods and services are generally above the European average.

Weather

Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, moist weather with abundant rainfall and a lack of temperature extremes. Winters are generally cool, while summers are mild. The Atlantic Ocean influences the weather, often bringing cloud cover and rain.

Educational System Ireland

The educational system in Ireland is highly regarded and offers a comprehensive structure for students from early childhood to secondary level. Education is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16 or until students have completed three years of second-level education. The system is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Primary education typically starts at the age of 4 or 5 and continues until the age of 12 or 13, consisting of eight years: junior infants, senior infants, and first through sixth class. Secondary education is divided into a three-year junior cycle followed by a two or three-year senior cycle, depending on whether the optional Transition Year is taken. The junior cycle culminates in the Junior Certificate examination, while the senior cycle leads to the Leaving Certificate, which is necessary for university entry. Irish schools are known for their support of cultural activities, sports, and language development, with Irish (Gaelic) taught in all schools alongside English. The quality of education is high, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for higher education and vocational training.

Healthcare in Ireland

The healthcare system in Ireland is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is managed by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and is funded by general taxation. All residents of Ireland are entitled to receive healthcare through the public healthcare system, which provides a range of services either free of charge or at a subsidized cost. However, waiting times for public healthcare services can be long, and as a result, some people opt for private healthcare to get faster access to treatment. Private healthcare usually offers more immediate access to services but at a higher cost. The quality of healthcare in Ireland is generally considered to be good, with well-trained medical staff and modern facilities. Expats and digital nomads who are legal residents in Ireland and make the necessary social insurance contributions are eligible for the same healthcare benefits as Irish citizens. Non-residents can access healthcare services but will likely need private health insurance to cover the costs.

Best Places to Live in Ireland
Discover the top-ranked towns in Ireland. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.
Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Universities in Ireland

The university system in Ireland consists of universities, institutes of technology, and colleges that offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The academic year typically runs from September to May, with some variations depending on the institution. Undergraduate degrees usually take three to four years to complete, while postgraduate programs can range from one to four years, depending on the level of study. Ireland is home to several internationally recognized universities, and the country is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. The Irish government invests in scholarship programs to attract international students, and many universities offer a diverse and multicultural environment. The application process for foreign students usually involves proving English proficiency and meeting specific entry requirements for their chosen program. Costs can vary significantly depending on the institution and the course of study.

Connect with Our Partners
Connect with our trusted local partners in Ireland and around the world through our Partner Connect tool. From moving companies to expat health insurance and more, our partners are here to help.
TripiamoCORNERSTONE Relocation Universal Tax Professionals Cigna Global Health GeoBlue SJB Global iVisa.com William Russell The Relocator Traveling Mailbox AGS Worldwide Movers  PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Living in Ireland

Healthcare in Ireland

The healthcare system in Ireland is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is managed by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and is funded by general taxation. All residents of Ireland are entitled to receive healthcare through the public healthcare system, which provides a range of services either free of charge or at a subsidized cost. However, waiting times for public healthcare services can be long, and as a result, some people opt for private healthcare to get faster access to treatment. Private healthcare usually offers more immediate access to services but at a higher cost. The quality of healthcare in Ireland is generally considered to be good, with well-trained medical staff and modern facilities. Expats and digital nomads who are legal residents in Ireland and make the necessary social insurance contributions are eligible for the same healthcare benefits as Irish citizens. Non-residents can access healthcare services but will likely need private health insurance to cover the costs.

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