Living in Dublin As An International Student

Deciding to study abroad is a difficult and life-altering decision. It takes loads of planning, preparation, and determination. But with the right resources, it can be a tremendous journey of self-growth.

Here are our top 4 tips for international students planning to study in Dublin:

1. Find Housing Early.

The housing crisis in Ireland makes it extremely difficult to find accommodation, especially at the start of the school season. There are simply too few properties available for rent in the country, which also drives prices up. To avoid issues with housing, make sure to secure accommodation as early as possible. We recommend using websites like Daft.ie, Rent.ie, Facebook marketplace, and Let.ie to find available listings. Beware of scams and make sure to tour the property before paying anything or signing a lease.

2. Maintain your Immigration Status.

As an international student, it is important to maintain your immigration status to remain a valid resident in Ireland. For non-EEA students on a student visa, you must register with the Irish Immigration office within 90 days of arriving to Ireland to receive your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. Use the website www.irishimmigration.ie to navigate obtaining a visa and to keep track of all new rules and regulations.

3. Take Advantage of Student Discounts.

There are several perks to being a student in Ireland, including student discounts. One way to take advantage of these benefits is by obtaining a student Leap card for 50% discounted transportation fees in Dublin. It can be ordered online through the website www.leapcard.ie. Many restaurants, events, and museums also offer discounts for students, so we recommend that you always keep an eye out for those.

4. Immerse Yourself in the Culture.

Being an international student in a foreign country can be a life-altering and enriching experience. The best way to take full advantage of studying in Ireland is to experience its beautiful culture. We recommend that you try its food, visit museums, listen to its music, learn its history, and delve into its festivities, such as celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. This will enhance your overall experience in Ireland and aid in self-growth.

Dublin is truly a wonderful place to explore, study, and live in. From our experiences as international students living in Dublin, we hope these tips will help you start your own journey and make this experience a little less intimidating for you.