How To Move To Ireland: An Advice Guide For Americans

Irish countryside provides a welcome respite. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 31 million American claim Irish heritage; these Americans comprise an ever increasing portion of those considering moving from America.

American images of Ireland often conjure images of thatched-roof cottages, low stone walls, lush green pastures dotted with sheep, cozy pubs with open fires and cozy homes with thatched roofs – exactly the kind of place my family and I settled upon when making our move there in 1998.

My husband, son, and I spent seven years there growing our family while building our business and renovating an Irish country home. Because of our time spent there, my husband, son, and I now possess Irish passports; as a result I look back upon those years fondly; even authoring a book about it! Since returning, we visit often – I dream about owning another property there one day!

Ireland offers much to recommend it; from welcoming, friendly people and architecture that I adore; especially Georgian doorways in Dublin city to its rolling green countryside filled with castles, churches, gardens and much more that provide insight into Ireland’s rich history.

Budapest also serves as an excellent starting point for travel across Europe with low cost carriers quickly connecting you with cities throughout Europe quickly and affordably.
However, Ireland can present unique challenges, with its climate often being an inconvenience for some. I personally enjoyed its cooler temperatures but struggled with its lack of sunshine; fall and winter can often bring rain-filled, wet, windy days–but at least all this rain created beautiful scenery I appreciate so much!

Cost can also be an impediment to retirement in Ireland; each applicant will need to demonstrate annual income of at least 54,000 euros (roughly $54,000), along with access to an emergency fund containing at least enough savings for any sudden major expenses; additionally, this lump sum needs to cover the average home price in Ireland of 340,000 euros or around $365,000
Irish (and U.K.) citizens can enter Ireland freely and reside there without financial requirements, which means if you’re among the 31 million American’s with Irish ancestry obtaining citizenship via descent may be an option for you.
Ireland recognizes its long-distance descendants with one of the best ancestral citizenship programs available today. If either your parent(s) or grandparents were born in Ireland then you’re entitled to Irish citizenship as well as an EU passport.
Check and apply at the Register of Foreign Births; your great-grandparents could qualify if one parent became Irish citizen-by-descent before your birth.
Citizenship through ancestry offers those eligible an efficient, quick, and cost-effective pathway into Ireland’s society and culture.
FORBES’ MORE FROM FORBES FORBES’ Articles On Relocating AbroadBy Kathleen PeddicordForbesCountries That Welcome AmericansWith Open ArmsBy Kathleen PeddicordForbes6 Critical Considerations Before Relocating Abroad By Kathleen Peddicord7 Countries Where Americans Can Secure ResidencyEasyBy Kathleen Peddicord