Exchange in Ireland: essential guide for the first few days
The time has come to set foot in Ireland and officially start your exchange, but now that anxiety hits: how does everything work there? The truth is that the first few days can define what your entire experience in the country will be like. Between mandatory documents, Brazil's different public transportation system, and the famous Irish housing crisis, having a clear plan for the first few weeks can be the difference between a smooth adjustment and months of costly discoveries.
Why preparing for arrival is critical
Ireland receives thousands of Brazilian students every year, and those who prepare properly for the first few days are able to adapt much faster. The country offers a welcoming and multicultural environment, but getting to know the local peculiarities from the start can save time, money and unnecessary stress.
Our program Study and Work in Ireland It prepares you for this journey, but some practical tips about the first steps in the country can be the difference between a smooth adaptation and a few weeks of discovery through trial and error.
Essential documentation: your first appointments
IRP - your passport to Irish life
O Irish Residence Permit (IRP) It is your first official document in Ireland and must be provided within the first few days. This document allows you to legally live and work in the country for more than three months.
To apply for the IRP you will need:
- Schedule an interview with immigration
- Present a valid passport
- Proof of Irish address
- Proof of enrollment in an Irish educational institution
- €300 fee
Important tip: Schedule your interview as soon as possible, as demand is high and dates may take weeks to become available.
PPS Number - your Irish tax ID
O Personal Public Service Number works like our Brazilian Social Security number. Without it, you can't work legally or access public health services.
Required documents for the PPS:
- passport
- Proof of Irish address
- Letter from the school confirming your enrollment
- Letter from the employer (when you get a job)
Adaptation to the Irish climate and clothing
The Irish climate is famous for its unpredictability. In a single day, you can face sun, rain, wind, and even hail. The local expression “four seasons in one day” sums up this reality perfectly.
Essentials for your Irish wardrobe:
- Tough waterproof jacket (not just “waterproof”)
- Compact and windproof umbrella
- Waterproof and comfortable shoes for long walks
- Layered clothing to adapt to changes in temperature
- Scarf and hat for colder days
Set aside a specific budget to complement your wardrobe when you arrive. Irish stores like Penneys (Primark) offer clothing appropriate to the local climate at affordable prices.
Public transport: dominating the Irish system
Dublin - well-connected capital
In Dublin, the public transport system is more comprehensive:
- Dublin Bus: extensive bus network covering the entire city
- DART: train that connects the center to the coastal suburbs
- MOONS: modern trams with two main lines
Leap Card - your best friend in transport
O Leap Card is essential for any student. This card offers:
- Significant discounts on fares
- Easy to use different types of transport
- Automatic refill when needed
- Student rate upon proof
Approximate values with Leap Card:
- Bus trip: €2.50
- DART/LUAS: €2.50-€4.00 depending on distance
- Monthly student pass: €80-€120
Housing: Navigating the Housing Crisis
The housing situation in Ireland is challenging, especially in Dublin. High demand and limited supply have created a competitive market that requires preparation and patience.
Strategies for finding housing
Temporary accommodation:
- Book at least 3-4 weeks of temporary accommodation
- Student hostels cost between €25-€40 per night
- Homestay can cost €180-€250 per week
Search for permanent housing:
- Main sites: Daft.ie, Rent.ie, Spareroom.ie
- Facebook groups specific to Brazilians
- Walking tours through neighborhoods to find “To Let” signs
- Networking with other international students
Average housing costs in Dublin:
- Shared room: €450-€650 per month
- Single room: €600-€900 per month
- Studio apartment: €1,200-€1,800 per month
Banking system: making your financial life easier
Traditional Irish banks
These are the main options, but they require:
- Proof of Irish address
- Letter from the school
- In-person interview scheduling
- Waiting time for approval
Digital banks - the modern solution
They offer significant advantages:
- Immediate Irish IBAN
- 100% digital account opening
- Physical and virtual card
- Reduced fees for international transfers
- App in Portuguese
Having an Irish IBAN is critical to getting a job, as many employers prefer employees with local accounts.
International transfers
To move money between Brazil and Ireland, Wise offers:
- Much lower fees than traditional banks
- Real exchange rate without additional margin
- Transfers within 1-2 business days
- International card with Irish IBAN
Integrating into Irish culture
Exploring your new city
Dedicate your first weekends to getting to know your city in depth:
Essential walking tours:
- Historic center and main tourist attractions
- Residential neighborhoods where you can live
- Supermarkets and practical stores for everyday use
- Areas with the highest concentration of Brazilians
Building your social network
Ireland has a vibrant and welcoming Brazilian community:
- WhatsApp groups by city
- Regular Brazilian cultural events
- English study and practice groups
- Sports and recreational activities
As part of the experience of Learn a language abroad, interacting with different nationalities accelerates your linguistic and cultural development.
Financial planning for the first few months
Recommended starting budget
First week (one-time costs):
- IRP: €300
- Initial Leap Card: €20
- Telephone chip: €20
- Basic purchases (clothes, personal items): €200-€300
Estimated monthly costs:
- Accommodation: €500-€800
- Food: €250-€350
- Shipping: €80-€120
- Leisure and personal needs: €200-€300
Tips for saving in the first few months
- Cook at home whenever possible
- Enjoy free activities like museums and parks
- Buy clothes at stores like Penneys to save
- Use discount apps like Too Good To Go for food
- Attend free Brazilian community events
Preparing for the labor market
Professional documentation
Prepare your professional documents upon arrival:
- CV in Irish/European format
- Translated letter of recommendation
- Certificates for translated courses
- LinkedIn optimized for the Irish market
Sectors with the highest demand for Brazilians
- Hospitality: hotels, restaurants, bars
- Customer service: multilingual call centers
- Cleaning and maintenance: offices and homes
- Sales: stores and shopping centers
- Teaching: Private Portuguese lessons
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand that the first few days in Ireland are fundamental to the success of your entire exchange. Our specialized team offers full support not only before the trip, but also during your adaptation to the country, with practical guidelines and exclusive tips that make all the difference. Contact us and discover how we can transform your arrival to Ireland into a smooth and successful experience, ensuring that you enjoy every moment of this transformative journey from day one!
