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
TFI Leap Card and Travel Guidance
Public transport is how most new arrivals get around. The TFI Leap Card is a reusable travel card used on public transport in Dublin and other parts of Ireland, and it usually costs less than paying cash fares. We help the client choose the right card, top it up and plan their journeys.
What this service covers
- Explaining what the TFI Leap Card is and how it saves money compared to cash fares.
- Explaining the card types, including discounted cards for certain groups, such as the official Student Leap Card and the TFI Young Adult Card, and who may be eligible.
- Showing the client how to get, register and top up a card.
- Explaining the main options: Dublin Bus, the Luas tram, the DART, commuter rail, and intercity buses and trains.
- Showing the client how to plan journeys with the official TFI Live app and the Transport for Ireland website.
- Planning the client's regular routes, for example from their accommodation to their college or workplace.
- Basic safety and etiquette on public transport.
How it works
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1
Choose the right card
We explain the card types and help the client check which one they may be eligible for on the official website.
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2
Get the card
The client buys or applies for the card through the official channels.
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3
Register and top up
We explain how to register the card, which can protect the balance if it is lost, and the ways to top it up.
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4
Plan regular journeys
We plan the client's main routes together using the TFI Live app.
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5
Travel with confidence
We explain safety, etiquette and what to do if something goes wrong on a journey.
What you need to provide
- A smartphone with the official TFI Live app installed.
- A payment card or cash to buy and top up a Leap Card.
- The address of the accommodation and of the college or workplace.
- For discounted cards, the documents the official website asks for, such as proof of age or enrolment.
- A passport-style photo, if the chosen card type needs one.
Good to know
Practical tips for new arrivals in Ireland.
Tap on, and sometimes tap off
On some services you tap your card when you get on and again when you get off. Check the signs at the stop or station.
Fares change
Fares are set by the transport authorities and change from time to time. Check the official Transport for Ireland website for current fares.
Bus etiquette
Raise your hand to stop the bus at a bus stop. Let people off first, and offer priority seats to people who need them.
Plan for late nights
Some services run less often late at night. Check times before you travel and keep your phone charged.
Stay safe
Keep your phone and bag close on busy services. If you feel unsafe, move near the driver or other passengers. In an emergency, call 112 or 999.
Walking and cycling
Many areas are easy to walk. If you cycle, use lights, wear a helmet and lock your bike securely.
Limits and costs
Included in our Moving on Your Own package. The card, top-ups and fares are paid by you directly.
Not included:
- Fares, card costs and top-ups. The client pays these directly.
- Applying for discounted cards on the client's behalf.
- Driving, car hire or driving licence advice.
Questions about Leap Card and Travel Guidance
It is a reusable travel card for public transport in Dublin and other parts of Ireland. Fares paid with a Leap Card are usually lower than cash fares.
Discounted cards exist for certain groups, such as the Student Leap Card and the TFI Young Adult Card. The card providers set the eligibility rules, so check the official Leap Card website. We can help you understand them.
The official TFI Live app and the Transport for Ireland website show routes and real-time information. We show you how to use them for your regular routes.
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 Leap Card and Travel Guidance?
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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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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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.