Housing

Extremely competitive. Availability hit a record low of under 1,800 homes listed for rent nationally in February 2026 and had recovered only to about 2,400 by May 2026, still well below pre-pandemic norms of around 4,000. In desirable Dublin neighbourhoods, properties receive 20+ applications and let within a week. Landlords consistently choose tenants with the strongest documentation (stable income, full references, Irish bank account) and those who can pay the first month and deposit immediately. New arrivals face the steepest disadvantage - budget for 4–8 weeks in temporary accommodation while building the paperwork trail landlords require.

Landlords typically require: photographic ID (passport), proof of income (3 months' payslips or employment contract for new arrivals), PPS number (or evidence it is in progress), bank statements (3 months), a previous landlord reference, and sometimes an employment reference letter. As a new arrival, substitute with your signed employment contract, offer letter, overseas bank statements, and a letter from your employer confirming your start date and salary. Having all documents in a single ready-to-send PDF dramatically increases your chances.

Yes. As of 1 March 2026, the Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) system has been replaced by a national rent control regime covering ALL private and student-specific tenancies in Ireland. Rent increases are capped at CPI or 2% per year, whichever is lower. Rent can only be reviewed every 12 months. New tenancies signed after 1 Mar 2026 become 6-year Tenancies of Minimum Duration (TMD); no-fault evictions are abolished for larger landlords. Violations can be reported to the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).

Yes - there are no restrictions on non-Irish or non-EU nationals purchasing residential or commercial property in Ireland. You will need an Irish PPS number and a solicitor to handle conveyancing. Financing via an Irish mortgage is possible but most lenders require at least 1–2 years of Irish employment history and payslips. New arrivals typically need a larger cash deposit or to wait until they have an Irish employment record. International mortgage brokers (e.g. HSBC Expat) can sometimes assist in the early months.