IT Contracting in Ireland - Living & Working
Profile written by Matt Walters of Capital Consulting (updated March 2012).
| Languages: | Irish (official), English (official). |
| Capital: | Dublin |
| Time zone: | GMT (+1 in summer) |
| Currency: | Euro (EUR) |
| Emergency Numbers: | 112 (all), 999 (all) |
| Key aiports: | Dublin (DUB); Cork (ORK) |
| Population: | 4,156,119 (July 2008 estimate) |
| Electricity: | 220V / 240V |
| Tax Year: | 1st January – 31st December |
| National holiday: | 17th March (St Patrick's Day) |
| International dialling prefix: | 353 |
| Internet domain suffix: | .ie |
| Cost of living: | Dublin is ranked 42nd in the Mercer worldwide cost of living survey. London is ranked 17th (2011). |
Although not traditionally regarded as a contractor destination, the implantation of technology giants such as Apple, Amazon and Microsoft in Ireland has opened up the market. The advantage of no language barrier, a highly skilled labour workforce, special tax conditions for non-domiciled individuals, along with Ireland’s proximity to the UK and reputation for hospitality has made it an increasingly attractive destination for the international contractor.
Public holidays in Ireland include New Year’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day (March 17), Easter Monday, Labour Day, June Holiday, August Holiday, October Holiday, Christmas Day (December 25), St. Stephen’s Day (December 26).
I. Accommodation
There is a strong rental culture in Ireland making it relatively easy to find a property for the duration of your contract. Exchange of home could prove to be more attractive financially. The opportunity of getting a timeshare home is also available.
Prices for accommodation will of course vary depending on size and location, but a guideline figure of EUR 1500-2000 may be quoted for a small, furnished apartment in central Dublin.
II. Travel
One of Ireland’s key advantages in the view of many contractors is its proximity and copious travel links with the UK.
i. Air
The airport of Dublin provides speedy links to all key UK airports by Aer Lingus, British Airways and RyanAir amongst others.
ii. Rail / Bus
The rail journey from Dublin to Cork (Intercity) takes about 3 hours, with regular departures. An efficient bus service is also available.
iii. Road
The drive from Dublin to London is about 266 miles, using the ferry from Dublin Port to Holyhead on Anglesey.
iv. Ferry
The drive from Dublin to London is about 266 miles, using the ferry from Dublin Port to Holyhead on Anglesey.
Capital Consulting is an international payroll and contract-management company providing tailor-made tax planning services to contractors working overseas. For more detailed information on your personal situation, please contact Capital on +41 32 732 97 00. http://www.capitaltaxconsulting.com/
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