How do you open a bank account in Ireland?
- See the data table below for detailed numbers
- Check the FAQ section for common expat questions
- Use our free assessment to get personalised results
Cash or card? Local bank or digital? In Ireland, the answer depends on where you live and how long you're staying.
Banking Overview in Ireland
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | euro (EUR) € |
| Bank Account for Foreigners | Yes |
| Access Difficulty | Medium |
| Remote Opening | No |
| Wise Available | No |
| N26 Available | No |
Opening a Bank Account in Ireland
Foreigners can open bank accounts in Ireland. The process difficulty is rated as medium, which means you should expect some bureaucracy and possibly language barriers.
Required Documents
- Valid passport or national ID
- Proof of address / residence registration
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Tax identification number (if available)
- Initial deposit (amount varies by bank)
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Digital Banking Options
Wise (TransferWise)
Wise has limited availability in Ireland. While you may be able to send money to Ireland, full local account features may not be available. Check their website for the latest on Ireland-specific services.
N26
N26 is not currently available in Ireland. You may need to consider local digital bank alternatives or traditional banks.
International Transfers
When transferring money to or from Ireland, consider these factors:
- Exchange rate: The currency is EUR. Always compare the offered rate with the mid-market rate.
- Transfer fees: Transfer fees vary — compare providers like Wise for the best rates.
- Transfer speed: Bank-to-bank (SWIFT) transfers take 2-5 business days. Digital services often complete within 1-2 days.
- Regular transfers: If sending money home regularly, set up a recurring transfer to lock in better rates.
Salary and Everyday Banking
The average salary in Ireland is approximately €4,403 per month. Your employer will typically require a local bank account for salary deposits. Most banks offer:
- Debit card (Visa or Mastercard)
- Online banking portal and mobile app
- Direct debit setup for rent and utilities
- ATM withdrawals (check fee policies)
Tips for Expats
- Understand tax reporting: Bank interest may be taxable. Ask your bank about withholding tax and whether they report to foreign tax authorities.
- Ask about expat-friendly packages: Some banks offer special accounts for foreign residents with English-language support and lower fees.
- Carry cash for the first week: Card acceptance varies. Have enough local currency to cover taxis, meals, and small purchases until your account is active.
- Compare fees before choosing: Monthly account fees, ATM charges, and international transfer costs vary wildly between banks. Ask before you open.
- Learn key banking terms: A few words in the local language go a long way at the bank counter and when reading statements.
Additional Practical Information
The following information is compiled from expat community sources and recent reports to complement the official data above.
Key Institutions and Services
Based on current expat reports, the following organisations and services are relevant for newcomers to Ireland:
- Allied Irish Bank
- Personal Public Service
Additional Data Points
Recent reports and expat sources provide these additional figures for Ireland:
- Money Jar is an instant sign-up, pay-as-you-go, digital current account for day-to-day banking requirements. It is a 100% Irish-owned FinTech company that offers a simple alternative to traditional bank accounts, providing an Irish IBAN. With an Irish IBAN, you can apply for jobs, make bank transfers, set up direct debits, and more.
- N26 is Europe's first 100% mobile bank, headquartered in Berlin. Anyone can open an N26 Bank account, as long as they are resident in the EU and EEA. To open an account, you need a mailing address in one of the countries where N26 operates, so they can send you your Mastercard. It is an excellent choice for an affordable and convenient digital banking experience.
- Bunq is a Dutch online bank that launched in Ireland in 2019. There are four different account options with Bunq, including Free, Core, Pro, and Elite. A Bunq account can be opened in minutes on your smartphone (verification of ID required), and there is no minimum amount required.
- If you apply to open a bank account in Ireland as a non-resident , your address outside of Ireland may be accepted, depending on the bank and the type of account. If you are planning to move to Ireland , note that you need a bank account to rent an apartment. Therefore, it's advised to look for a bank that allows you to open a bank account with an address outside of Ireland.
- It is important to remember that you pay off your credit card bills at the end of each month. Your credit will be vital going forward, so you will want to have a strong record. In the beginning, you may only have small credit limits, but these will rise over time as you consistently showcase your ability to repay the money.
- For children in Ireland, it is mandatory that they attend school from the ages of 6 up until they are 16 ...
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best banks for expats in Ireland?
For expats in Ireland, options depend on your needs. AIB and Bank of Ireland accept foreigners. PPS needed. We recommend comparing traditional banks with digital alternatives based on your transaction patterns and whether you need international transfers.
How long does it take to open a bank account in Ireland?
Opening a bank account in Ireland typically takes 1-3 weeks depending on documentation readiness and the bank chosen. Digital banks may be faster.
Can I open a bank account remotely before moving to Ireland?
Remote account opening is generally not available in Ireland. You will likely need to visit a branch in person with your documents.
Is cryptocurrency banking available in Ireland?
Cryptocurrency regulation in Ireland varies. Some banks allow crypto-related transactions while others restrict them. Dedicated crypto exchanges operate in many countries. Check local regulations before trading or holding crypto assets in Ireland.
Does Wise (TransferWise) work in Ireland?
Wise has limited functionality in Ireland. You may need to rely on traditional banks for transfers.