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.
Part of Moving on Your Own
Bank Account Setup Support
A bank account makes daily life in Ireland much easier, from paying rent to receiving wages. We help the client understand their options and prepare the documents banks usually ask for. This is practical guidance only. We are not a financial advisor and we do not recommend any specific provider.
What this service covers
- Explaining the main types of banking options: traditional banks with branches, and app-based or digital banking options.
- Explaining what to compare, such as monthly fees, card fees, branch access and the cost of sending money abroad.
- Explaining the documents banks usually ask for.
- Helping the client plan around the proof of address challenge.
- Explaining how to bank safely online and avoid common scams.
- Pointing the client to neutral, official comparison information.
How it works
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1
Understand the options
We explain the general types of accounts and what to compare.
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2
Check the requirements
The client checks each provider's current requirements on its official website.
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3
Prepare documents
We help the client gather identification, proof of address and any other documents the provider asks for.
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4
Apply
The client applies directly with the provider of their choice, online or in a branch.
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5
Bank safely
We explain safe banking habits, such as never sharing codes or passwords with anyone.
What you need to provide
- A valid passport, as identification.
- Proof of address in Ireland, which many providers ask for.
- An IRP card, if the client has one and the provider asks for it.
- A letter from the college or employer, which some providers accept as supporting evidence.
- A PPS Number, if the client has one and the provider asks for it.
- An Irish phone number for security codes.
Each provider sets its own requirements and these can change. Always check the provider's official website before applying.
Good to know
Practical tips for new arrivals in Ireland.
The proof of address challenge
Many new arrivals need proof of address to open an account, but need an account to get some kinds of proof of address. Plan early. A tenancy agreement or a letter from your college or employer may help, depending on the provider.
Compare the costs
Check monthly fees, card fees and the charges for sending money abroad before you choose.
Never share security codes
A real bank will never ask for your full PIN, your password or a one-time code by phone, text or email.
Keep a back-up
Until your account is open, keep a card from home that works abroad and some cash.
Use neutral comparisons
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) publishes neutral information about current accounts.
Limits and costs
Included in our Moving on Your Own package. Any account or card fees are set by the bank or provider and paid by you.
Not included:
- Recommending or endorsing a specific bank or provider.
- Financial advice of any kind. We are not a financial advisor.
- Handling the client's money, bank details, passwords or cards.
- A guarantee that an account will be approved. Each provider makes its own decisions.
- Bank fees and charges.
Questions about Bank Account Setup
We cannot recommend a specific provider, and we are not a financial advisor. We explain what to compare, such as fees, branch access and app features, so you can choose what suits you. The CCPC website has neutral comparison information.
Some app-based providers let you start an application before you arrive, but many ask for an address in Ireland. Check each provider's official website for its current rules.
No. We never ask for passwords, PINs, security codes or card details, and we never handle clients' money.
More answers on the FAQ page.
Part of the package
Included in our Moving on Your Own package
All seven services together, with one-to-one support from our team. Government fees, accommodation costs, deposits and third-party charges are separate.
Questions about Bank Account Setup?
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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PPSN Application Assistance
We help you apply for your Personal Public Service Number (PPS Number), from the documents to proof of address. Available on its own or as part of a package.
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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.