Home for Christmas or Maybe for Good?

by Andrew Meehan, Principal Recruitment Lead: IT Infrastructure/Security at Abrivia Recruitment

With a booming job market, ample opportunities and huge investments levels, it’s no wonder more people than ever are now making their way back home to Ireland than emigrating for the first time since those dark dreary recessionary times.  If you are contemplating becoming one of the latest returning Irish emigrants to grace our isle again; then you don’t need me to remind you of the many advantages that life in Ireland will bring for you and your family. Christmas spent with close family and friends, the 12 pubs, leftover turkey sandwiches, pints in Toners, and a proper cup of tea are all things that you can count on once you land at Dublin airport.

However, just like the new Star Wars movie coming to town, there is a dark side to consider. Coming home for good will present some of the less desirable consequences and challenges of moving home.  As the auld saying goes “there’s no place like home”, to the contrary candidates have spoken honestly after the difficulties of trying to put down roots in a country you haven’t lived in for years. That is why I have created this guide to help you navigate many of the hurdles that you may encounter. By taking the time to make yourself aware of the potential obstacles in advance of your arrival home, you stand a far better chance of returning to a hassle-free life once you get to Ireland.

1: Prepare, prepare, prepare!

If you think moving home to Ireland is as simple as booking a flight, packing up your belongings, you need to think again. Moving back to Ireland is a big deal and a more complex decision for many people than their initial departure from Ireland was. Coupled with this, there is some emotional baggage one will need to deal with when leaving a country that you have called home for many years and it is important to acknowledge this.  It is so important you prepare and think about the big picture before you say, “feck it I’m coming home!”. Ask yourself questions like where will I live? Do I need a car? Does childcare really cost an arm and leg? Are their good schools close by? To rent or buy? Is my driving license valid in Ireland? Questioning yourself is crucial, and key to preparation. The likelihood is that if you are planning on moving home you will have family and friends that will be only delighted to help you out. Use your network be it private and professional, and don’t be afraid to source advice from people who may have undertaken a similar move before you.

2: Coming home with the special one?

If you managed to bag the special him or her who holds citizenship of another EU/EEA country (or is Swiss), you don’t have too much to worry about beyond the other tips mentioned within this article. You can expect to zip right through the EU/EEA customs channel upon arrival in the airport, and you can both work in Ireland. Brexit has not bitten fully yet so this may add to further complications. Sorry for getting the B word in.

On the other hand, if that special one is from outside this area you may not be able to sponsor your spouse or partner for immigration status in Ireland until after you arrive back in Ireland. Moreover, your spouse or partner may not be able to work in Ireland during the application processing period, unless otherwise authorised to do so. This may mean that you as a couple, or as a family with children, will potentially have to get by on one income for many months. This is a hugely important point as Ireland, Dublin especially isn’t a cheap place to live!

3: A new gig and the monies?

The job market looking rather healthy and a lot better since the time you left. Check out what sectors of the economy are performing strongly, what resources can help you find a job, and what supports are available if you want to start a business. Like most places tax is a killer, be sure to do your homework and calculate how much tax you will have to pay. The healthcare system is a contentious issue in Ireland. If you can; get private cover! Be sure to research what the health service is like, and how much you can expect to pay for private healthcare and insurance. Don’t forget the pension, transferring it over should be straight forward enough.