Ireland is a great place to live and work. Its laid back lifestyle and excellent links to the UK and Europe attract all kinds of health care professionals from many countries around the world. Its coastal beauty, lake lands and rural landscapes are breath-taking and its long history and cultural heritage reveals a passion for music, dance and of course conversation, found in abundance in Ireland’s many pubs and restaurants.

Ireland is an island in the Atlantic Ocean, off the north-western coast of continental Europe. It is the third largest island in Europe. The population of Ireland is about 6.4 million. Just under 4.6 million live in the Republic of Ireland and just over 1.8 million live in Northern Ireland.

Irish culture has had a significant influence on other cultures, especially in the fields of literature and, to a lesser degree, science and education. A strong indigenous culture exists, as expressed for example through Gaelic games, Irish music, and the Irish language. The culture of the island has also many features shared with Great Britain, including the English language, and sports such as association football, rugby, horse racing and golf.

Irish weather is generally mild, July and August typically being the warmest months of the year, with temperatures ranging from 15° to 20°C. January and February tend to be the coldest months of the year, when temperatures are between 4° and 8°C and major snowfalls are very unusual. During the summer months, Ireland also enjoys longer days with up to 18 hours of daylight.

Language

The national language is Gaelic. However, almost everyone speaks English as their main language and all business is conducted in English, unless you request it to be conducted in the Irish Gaelic language. However, you will see street and road signage and official literature available in English along with the Irish Gaelic translation.

Relocating with your family to Ireland

Moving to Ireland with your family may seem at first like a considerable challenge, however it can be achieved in a comfortable, smooth and stress-free manner. Ireland is a great place to raise a family, in a child-friendly environment, with an abundance of services and benefits for kids. Children are entitled to free education in publicly funded primary and second-level schools. For pre-school children, there is a range of childcare options. Further information can be found at (www.citizensinformation.ie)

Right to work in Ireland

As a Greek citizen or a member of the EU you are entitled to work in Ireland without an employment permit.

You are entitled to have your dependants come to live with you.

If you are an EEA or Swiss national, you are entitled to be treated in the same way as Irish citizens, when you apply for work in Ireland. You are free to apply for any job vacancy, including jobs in the public sector, but not the Irish diplomatic service. If you are a spouse or civil partner of an EEA/Swiss national, who is exercising the right of free movement, then you have similar rights to work and live in Ireland.