Going through immigration, the first day at school, finding accommodation, opening a bank account, getting your resident card. The first few weeks in Ireland are full of practical tasks that nobody tells you about properly before you board.
To help you arrive prepared and with less stress, we’ve gathered here everything you need to know from the moment the plane lands in Dublin.
Before leaving the plane: immigration at the airport
The first official contact with Ireland happens at the immigration counter at Dublin Airport. This moment generates anxiety for many people, but the secret is simple: arrive organized and with all your documents printed.
The immigration officer usually asks for your passport, school enrollment letter, return ticket, health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Having everything printed — not just on your phone — makes all the difference.
The immigration decision is based on the consistency of your answers and the correct presentation of documents, so arriving disorganized or with everything only on your phone is a risk not worth taking.
It’s important to keep in mind that Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area. This means that, even coming from another European country, you will go through a full passport control upon arrival.
And for those connecting in the United Kingdom: even without leaving the transit area of the British airport, the UK ETA is mandatory. Not having this document may result in being denied boarding while still in Brazil.
How much money do you need to have in your account?
This is one of the points that generates the most questions. The IRP — the Irish resident card — costs €300, paid by card at the time of registration. For those who will study for more than 25 weeks, it is mandatory to prove at least €6,665 in a bank account.
In addition to the minimum required amount, ideally you should not move this money from arrival until you withdraw the IRP. Therefore, it is essential to have a separate reserve for the expenses of the first month, an amount of at least €1,000 more than the amount to be proven.
The IRP: Your Most Important Document in Ireland
The IRP (Irish Residence Permit) is the card that proves you are legally living in the country. Obtaining this document is mandatory for those staying for more than 90 days.
Since January 2025, all first IRP registrations are done exclusively in Dublin, regardless of the city where you will be living.
The appointment is made through the Digital Contact Centre portal, online. Don’t leave it until after you arrive—when going through immigration at the airport, the agent may ask about the appointment, so it’s good to have the confirmation on hand or on your phone.
Accommodation: Sort it out before you arrive
Having a fixed address is essential to proceed with practically everything in Ireland—from the IRP to opening a bank account. Ideally, you should book at least two weeks of accommodation while still in Brazil, as finding housing in the country usually takes between one and two weeks.
SEDA College offers accommodation options for students, precisely so that you arrive with this part resolved and can focus on what matters: learning English and enjoying the experience.
Working during your exchange program: understand the rules
One of the great advantages of studying in Ireland is the possibility of working legally while you study. For this, it is necessary to have a course of more than 25 weeks contracted.
With an active student visa (Stamp 2), it is permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the course and full-time during school holidays.
First days: the checklist you need to follow
The first weeks in Ireland are hectic, but following a logical order makes everything simpler. As soon as you arrive: start by scheduling your IRP appointment, if you haven’t already done so. Then, secure your permanent accommodation with a contract and proof of address.
With your address in hand, open your bank account — digital banks like Revolut and N26 are the most used by exchange students because they are fast and without bureaucracy.
Next, apply for a PPS Number, which is the Irish equivalent of a CPF (Brazilian taxpayer ID) and will be required for virtually every formal relationship in the country, from employment to the healthcare system.
Is it time to pack your bags and head to Ireland? The SEDA College team is here to help you every step of the way — inside and outside the classroom. Talk to us and get all your questions answered before you leave!
