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Moving from Ireland to America

Here, you can find all the information you need before your move from Ireland to America.

Whether you’re moving to the United States, Canada, or Mexico, there’s a lot that goes into planning and executing a transatlantic move, so it’s smart to leave it to the hands of an experienced professional who will handle the moving process for you.

Visa requirements for Irish citizens

Before moving to the U.S., it’s important to handle essentials like finding a job, a home, or a school for your child; afterward, focus on paperwork and arranging the move for a smoother transition.

As an Irish citizen, you can enter the United States for up to 90 days as part of the ESTA Visa Waiver Program (VWP). If you’re planning on staying longer than 90 days, you can apply for a visa, depending on your circumstances.

The visa application fee in the United States for longer than 90 days is approximately €192 for tourists and business travellers. It costs around €213 to apply for a work visa, and fees for other visa types range from €276 to €328.
If you are a Green Card holder, which allows you to permanently live, work, and settle in the U.S., you’ll be ready to move to your new home.


How much money will I need to move to America?

For an average family with all expenses included, it will cost between €13,540 and €31,250 to move to the United States. The exact moving costs depend on the size of your household, the distance, and your personal circumstances.

Finding a new home

Finding a new home in the U.S. is one of the most significant decisions you can make. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy property, the average price varies significantly depending on the state you move to. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the average cost of housing in different locations and ensure the area offers the right balance of cost and lifestyle for your needs.

Here is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre of four popular destinations in the United States:

Cities1-bedroom apartment2-bedroom apartment
Boston€2,917 – €5,208€3,333 – €7,291
Chicago€1,042 – €4,167€2,292 – €6,250
Los Angeles€3,125 – €6,250€4,167 – €8,333
New York€3,438 – €6,667€3,646 – €9,375

Costs of moving house to America from Ireland

For many of us, moving to America is a daunting ocean to cross, but with the right international removal company, the process can be much smoother.

The table below shows the average costs for 20ft (1- to 2-bedroom home) and 40ft (3 or more bedrooms) shipping containers to popular destinations in the United States:

Destination20ft Shipping Container40ft Shipping Container 
New York€1,719 – €1,900€3,261 – €3,610
Los Angeles€1,817 – €2,319€3,490 – €3,906

For convenience, opt for door-to-door services. These speed up customs clearance at both ends and ensure the removal company handles all necessary paperwork and taxes, reducing logistical stress for you.

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Getting a social security number

If you are an Irish citizen and want to work in the United States, you must first obtain a social security number (SSN). This number will track your employment and ensure you pay the correct amount of tax while receiving all benefits and discounts.

The way you apply for the SSN depends on your visa situation. Under the agreement between the U.S. and Ireland, if you work as an employee in the U.S., your employer will pay Social Security taxes only to the U.S. If you work as an employee in Ireland, you and your employer pay Social Security taxes to Ireland.

If your employer sends you to another country for five years or less, you remain covered in your home country and are exempt from coverage in the other country. For self-employed individuals, you are typically covered and taxed only by the country in which you reside.

Setting up a bank account in the U.S. 

There are numerous banking providers in America to choose from. It’s worth researching various options and accounts before applying for a new one to ensure you find the best fit for your needs. 

To open a new account, you’ll need your SSN or individual taxpayer number, along with some paperwork. Keep in mind that most banks prefer in-person applications for new accounts. 

Also, if your income is still coming from Ireland and in a currency other than U.S. dollars, consider international banks that charge lower fees for international transactions and currency conversion.

Arranging your healthcare insurance 

Healthcare in the U.S. works differently than in Ireland, as there is no free public healthcare system. You must research and select a provider that offers coverage for emergencies or other medical needs.

Insurance options vary depending on your immigration status and personal circumstances. Green Card holders and temporary work permit holders may have different benefits, while some employers offer health insurance as part of their contracts. For visa holders, global insurers may also provide suitable policies.

Advice for your relocation to America

  • Check if your removal company offers a “scorecard” to track service and costs. This can help manage the logistics of a big move.
  • Before packing, decide which household items are worth the shipping cost. Electrical appliances may not be compatible with U.S. sockets and voltage.
  • Carry your most valuable possessions with you rather than placing them in shipping containers.
  • If shipping belongings via sea-freight, prepare to arrive before your items do. Keep essentials for the first few weeks separate.

Finding Irish Communities in the U.S.

Moving to a new country can feel overwhelming, but staying connected with your Irish heritage can help you feel more at home. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to find Irish communities in the U.S., where you can meet like-minded individuals and maintain a sense of belonging.

Irish Cultural Centers: Many cities in the U.S. have Irish cultural centers offering events, classes, and networking opportunities. These hubs celebrate Irish culture through music, dance, language, and community gatherings.

Gaelic Clubs: Joining a Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) club is a great way to stay active and connected. These clubs often host matches, social events, and meet-ups for the Irish diaspora.

Online Forums: Websites and social media groups dedicated to Irish expats provide a space to share advice, experiences, and updates about Irish events in your area. Popular platforms like Facebook and Meetup often have groups for Irish communities in major U.S. cities.

Taking advantage of these resources can make your transition smoother and help you build a support network, ensuring that your Irish identity continues to thrive in your new home.

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Planning a move across the Atlantic can be daunting, but with help from experienced removal companies, it can become an exciting new chapter. Getting quotes from multiple companies lets you compare prices and find the best service.

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