Bank Account in Ireland

If you plan to move to Ireland from the USA, prepare for some changes. One of the most important differences between Ireland and the U. S. is banking. It is wise to learn a little about the issue before you move and need to transfer money to Ireland to your new account.

At present, there are two major banks in Ireland. Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland are known as the largest, with over 300 branches each. Ulster Bank and National Irish Bank follow, with about five smaller banks rounding out the group. Just like the U. S., all Irish banks offer Internet services and 24-hour phone services. You might see a few familiar banks in the area, such as Citibank and Bank of America, but they are not major players and you will likely have to Open a Bank account in Ireland once you move.

bank account in ireland
Before you obtain a Bank Account in Ireland, you will need to gather references from your U. S. bank. They need to state that you have been a good customer while there. Also, know that in this country, it could take up to six months to get a credit or debit card through your bank, which is why keeping your old one, or perhaps getting a prepaid debit card, is a good idea. Once you do get a card from an Irish bank, you can only use it to withdraw money from ATMs, for which you have to pay a fee. Eventually, you might be issued a laser card, which can be used internationally and as a regular debit card, but you must prove you are a great customer for this, unlike in the United states.

Additionally, before you open a Bank Account in Ireland, you will need a Personal Public Service Number, or PPS No., which you can apply for once you have a permanent address in the country. You will also need your passport and birth certificate. Please note that you only need a PPS No. in the Republic of Ireland, not Northern Ireland.

Many people advise keeping your U. S. checking account open when you move, especially if you still have property or other bills to pay here. It will be easier to pay your U. S. bills with a U. S. account, rather than having to send money that has to be changed from euros to dollars. Additionally, you won't have to deal with unfavorable exchange rates, and many items are cheaper to buy in the U. S. than in Ireland. You can avoid certain transaction fees with an American bank account, and since many retailers don't even accept euros or anything other than U. S. dollars, you can save yourself some hassle by keeping a basic checking account in America.

If you do keep an account back home once you move to Ireland, you can easily wire money to and from your different accounts. However, it often takes a few days. If, for example, you have a bill to pay in Ireland and need money from your other account in the U. S., you could transfer money from one account to the other, but it might take two to three business days to go through. In fact, Irish banks are known for being difficult when it comes to international money transfers. Using a prepaid debit card could solve this issue. You could send one to your new address, and whenever you need to get money from your American account to the Irish account, you can go to the debit card website and send the money to your card.

The money will typically be available either instantly or the next day. You can use the card number and PIN to pay bills online, or you can take out cash at one of the many ATMs located around the country. Visa and MasterCard are both accepted widely in this country. This is a fast, inexpensive way to transfer money from one account to another when you move to Ireland. The charge is a flat fee of about $5, so you can send as much money as you want as one time.

Moving is difficult normally, but moving from one country to another is a major change. You shouldn't have to wonder how you are going to juggle your financial responsibilities in the united states while setting up your new home in Ireland. Knowing the available methods of Opening a Bank Account in Ireland before you move is helpful.

visit the register a company for information on Opening a Bank Account in Ireland almost anywhere in the world.

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