Arrival Planning
We help you plan your arrival before you leave home: what to carry, how to get from the airport to your accommodation, and what to sort out first.
Available on its own
PPSN Application Assistance
A Personal Public Service Number (PPS Number or PPSN) is a personal reference number used for access to social welfare benefits, public services and information in Ireland. Many international students need one, for example to work part-time and pay the right tax. It is applied for through the Department of Social Protection, usually through MyWelfare.ie. We help you understand the process, prepare your documents and know what to expect if you are asked to attend in person. You can get this help on its own, or as part of our Moving on Your Own package.
What this service covers
- Explaining what a PPS Number is used for and when you may need one.
- Explaining how the official application usually works, which is typically online through MyWelfare.ie.
- Helping you gather evidence of identity, evidence of address and evidence of why you need the number.
- Helping with proof of address, which many new arrivals find difficult.
- Explaining what to expect if you are asked to attend an appointment in person.
- Helping you understand letters or messages about your application.
How it works
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1
Check the need
We explain what a PPS Number is used for and when you should apply, for example when you start a part-time job.
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2
Prepare documents
Using the current official list, we help you gather evidence of identity, address and the reason you need the number.
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3
Apply through official channels
We explain how to apply, usually online through MyWelfare.ie. You complete the application yourself.
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4
If you are asked to attend
If you are asked to attend in person, we explain what to bring and what to expect.
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5
After applying
We help you understand any letters you receive and what to do next.
What you need to provide
- A valid passport, as evidence of identity.
- Evidence of address in Ireland, such as a tenancy agreement, a utility bill or an official letter showing your name and address.
- Evidence of why you need a PPS Number, such as a job offer or a letter from an employer.
- Your IRP card, if you already have one.
- A MyGovID account, which the official website currently asks for to apply online.
This is a general list only. Official requirements can change, so always check gov.ie and MyWelfare.ie before applying.
Good to know
Practical tips for new arrivals in Ireland.
Plan your proof of address early
Many new arrivals find proof of address the hardest part. A tenancy agreement or an official letter sent to your address may help. Check the official list.
Apply when you have a reason
You generally need a reason for a PPS Number, such as starting work. The official website lists examples.
Keep your number private
Your PPS Number is personal. Only share it with employers, Revenue, banks and official bodies that need it.
Use only official websites
MyWelfare.ie and gov.ie are the official sources. Be careful of anyone who asks you to pay them to get a PPS Number.
Limits and costs
Available on its own: contact us for a price. Also included in our Moving on Your Own package. Any official costs are set by the Department of Social Protection and paid by you directly.
Not included:
- Applying on your behalf or making decisions about the application. The Department of Social Protection decides.
- A guarantee that you will get a PPS Number, or of how long it will take.
- Tax, social welfare, legal or immigration advice.
Questions about PPSN Assistance
Yes. PPSN application assistance is available on its own, without the full package. Contact us for a price.
Many students apply for one when they start a part-time job, so they pay the right tax. Whether you need one depends on your situation. The official websites list the common reasons, and we can help you understand them.
No. You complete the application yourself through the official channels. We help you understand the steps and prepare your documents.
Processing times vary and are set by the Department of Social Protection, so we cannot guarantee a timeline. The official website has the latest information.
This is common for new arrivals. We help you understand which documents may be accepted and how to plan around it. Always check the current official list.
More answers on the FAQ page.
Need more help?
Moving to Ireland? Get this and six other services together
Our Moving on Your Own package includes this service, plus arrival planning, accommodation help, banking, transport and local orientation.
Questions about PPSN Assistance?
Send us a message on WhatsApp and we will explain how we can help.
Other services
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Accommodation Assistance Before Arrival
We help the client understand the Irish rental market, check listings and avoid rental scams before they arrive.
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IRP Application Assistance
We help students prepare for their first IRP registration or renew their Irish Residence Permit, step by step. Available on its own or as part of a package.
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Bank Account Setup Support
We help the client understand their banking options, the documents banks usually ask for and how to plan around proof of address.
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TFI Leap Card and Travel Guidance
We help the client get a TFI Leap Card, understand public transport and plan safe journeys around their new area.
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Local Orientation and Practical Support
We help the client find their way around, get a local SIM, register with a GP and settle into daily life, with ongoing WhatsApp support.