Budgeting for your Move: A Realistic Guide to Initial Costs

Relocating to Ireland as a non-EEA professional is a life-changing career move, but it is also a significant financial undertaking. In 2026, with the global cost of living remaining a challenge, arriving with an under-funded "move-in fund" is the most common mistake candidates make. To ensure a stress-free transition, you need to think beyond your plane ticket. You must account for government fees, the competitive rental market, and the gap between landing and your first Irish paycheck.

1. The Pre-Departure "Paperwork" Costs

Before you even board your flight, several hundred Euros will be spent on administrative compliance. In 2026, the standard Employment Permit fee remains €1,000 for a two-year permit (often covered by the employer, but verify your contract). However, the personal costs you must budget for include:

• Long Stay (D) Visa: €60–€100 depending on single or multi-entry requirements.

• Document Verification: Between €150 and €300 for notarisation, apostilling of birth certificates, or professional registrations (like NMBI for nurses).

• Flight Costs: Depending on your origin (South Africa, Philippines, or India), one-way flights in 2026 average between €700 and €1,200.

2. The Housing Hurdle: Deposits and First Month

Housing is the single largest upfront expense. In 2026, landlords typically require one month’s rent as a security deposit plus the first month’s rent in advance. If you are moving to Dublin, where a one-bed apartment averages €2,100, you will need €4,200 ready to transfer the moment you sign a lease.

In Cork or Limerick, this figure may be closer to €3,400. At Recruitroo, we strongly advise candidates to have this "Housing Fund" in a liquid account. Many professionals spend their first 2–4 weeks in temporary "Settle-In" accommodation (like an Airbnb or a corporate let), which can cost an additional €1,500–€2,000.

3. Managing the "Pay Gap"

One often-overlooked factor is the timing of your first paycheck. If you start your job on the 10th of the month, but your company pays on the 25th, you might only receive a partial payment. Furthermore, if your PPS Number (PPSN) isn't processed instantly, you may be placed on "Emergency Tax," which can deduct up to 40% of your earnings temporarily.

In 2026, we recommend having a "buffer" of at least €2,000 (separate from your rent deposit) to cover your daily living costs for the first six weeks. This ensures that even with a delay in tax processing or bank account setup, you can still afford groceries and commute to work comfortably.

Summary of Initial Costs (Estimated)

Building Your 2026 Budget

The key to a successful move is transparency. At Recruitroo, we work with our candidates to map out these costs long before they resign from their current roles. If your employer offers a relocation package, check exactly what it covers—many will reimburse flights and IRP fees, but very few will provide the cash upfront for a rental deposit.

Start saving today. By treating your relocation as a financial project, you turn a potentially overwhelming experience into a series of manageable steps. Ireland offers incredible rewards for international talent, and with the right budget in place, you’ll be free to enjoy them from the moment you land.