There are no restrictions on nationality or residency for non-Irish citizen who wish to purchase property in Ireland. This means foreigners shouldn’t face any barriers when purchasing a house.

Non-EU citizens can buy property in Ireland.

Everybody can buy property here, even non-EU citizens. Even non-EEA residents can purchase property in Ireland.

You should be aware that not owning property automatically grants you the right of residence in Ireland. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to apply to obtain a residence permit for someone who isn’t an Irish/UK citizen.

Can I buy a property here and become a resident?

Ireland has a similar scheme to other European countries: the “Golden Visa” program grants residency permits to foreign investors in property.

But, there are strict eligibility criteria. It’s not as easy as buying a house and receiving a visa. For three years you’ll need to make at least EUR2,000,000 investment in a trust that invests in real estate.

What is the average cost of properties in Ireland, according to your estimates?

There are many factors that influence the price of property in Ireland. These include location, type of property, and whether you live in a big city like Dublin.

The average property in Ireland is cheaper than that of the UK. In Ireland, the average price per square foot for an apartment in the city center is EUR3,870 or PS3,224. In the UK, it’s EUR5,098 or PS4,247)7.

To help you get an idea of how much money you can spend in Ireland, here is an overview of the average price for various properties in Ireland’s most popular destinations.

Can I Purchase Property in Ireland As a Non-Resident Person?

Yes, you may purchase property in Ireland if you are not a resident. No restrictions apply to foreign nationals who purchase residential property or commercial properties in the State. A PPS number will be required and you must instruct an Irish property lawyer (lawyer).

Here are some things to consider if your goal is to buy property here in Ireland as a non-resident.

Can foreign nationals buy property here?

No matter where they live, foreign nationals are permitted to buy property here. This applies to residential property as well as commercial property. Irish real estate is a popular way to invest, especially considering Ireland was the EU’s fastest-growing economy in 2020.

Do I have the right to live in Ireland because of an Irish property?

The fact that you own property in Ireland does not guarantee you are allowed to live there. You will need to apply for the necessary immigration permits. This is dependent on the passport that you have. You can live and/or work in Ireland as a citizen of the UK or EU. Visas may be required for citizens from other nations to remain in Ireland for longer periods than 90 days.

If you’re not a citizen of the EEA and have large funds to invest on Irish real estate, then you might consider applying for the Immigrant investor Programme (IIP). If accepted, you and your loved ones will be allowed to reside in Ireland.

What Irish commercial property is required to be able to start a business?

In the same way, buying a property in Ireland does NOT automatically make you eligible to start a business. Citizens from the UK and EU can set up a business in Ireland. It is possible for citizens of other countries to require permission.

How can I buy property in Ireland

Find the right property for you. If you cannot travel to Ireland, you may be able to view properties online and/or ask an agent to assist you. Once you find the right property, it is time to make an agreement. If your offer is accepted, you will most likely need to pay a booking deposit. This is beneficial as the estate agent will remove your property from the marketplace for a specified period. The deposit will be refunded once you have signed the contracts. Once you have signed the contracts, you can instruct an Irish property solicitor. They will then handle all aspects of the conveyancing process.

You can read more about our 10 Steps Guide to Buying a Residence Property in Ireland. If you are purchasing a property at an auction, the process will be slightly different.

Where can you find a solicitor for Irish property?

Search the Law Society of Ireland’s website to find a licensed solicitor. A firm or solicitor that is listed on this site can be trusted to have the legal credentials required to practice law. Conveyancing, the legal process for buying and selling property, is commonly called. This area of law is specialized, so make sure that you have a dedicated conveyancing lawyer at your chosen firm. We do this here at Mullins & Treacy Solicitors.

What if I cannot travel to Ireland for the paperwork to be signed?

You may wish to grant your solicitor power to act on your behalf if you are not able to travel to Ireland. This allows your solicitor or agent to execute the transaction on behalf of you.

Do I have the right to rent the property?

Yes, you may rent the property out. Tax implications will apply if the landlord is not a resident. A solicitor can provide more details.

What is a number PPS?

To buy property in Ireland, an Irish Personal Public Service Number (PPS number) is required. This is a tax identification code that is equivalent in value to a National Insurance in the UK or Canada. This is something your solicitor will be able to advise you about.

Will I have tax to pay for my Irish property purchase?

Stamp Duty will be charged to your property when it is purchased. This is a one-time payment. Additionally, there will be an annual local tax. Capital Gains Tax can also apply to properties that are not your main residence. VAT may be applicable to commercial properties.

Non-residents could be subject to Irish income tax. Ireland has entered into double tax treaties (with 73) with these countries. If you’re a citizen of one these countries, generally speaking, you wont be taxed twice for the same income.

How can I find a property here in Ireland?

Agents and estate agencies

It may be beneficial to hire an Irish-based estate agent if your home is in the UK. A professional agent or property expert who knows the market can search for suitable properties on your behalf and help you navigate the buying process.

Start by going to the Property Services Regulatory Authority website. A listing of licensed estate agent is available here.

You can also visit Ireland’s Golden Pages website or conduct an online search to find agents that are operating in your area.

Ireland Property Websites

You can also use the internet to start your search for property by entering your criteria.

• Daft.ie
• MyHome.ie
• Property.ie

How do you choose the right property for me?

9 types of property

Many of the same types of property are found in Ireland as the UK. However, you may be surprised to discover more Georgian properties. Charming 19th century workers cottages are also available. Also, you can find ‘Dutch Billy’ homes. These are tall, narrow houses with long terraces that have been designed in the style of Dutch and Belgian architecture. You don’t have to settle for a particular style, Ireland has plenty of new-built homes.

The type of property you choose will be determined by your needs, family size, and budget as well as the housing stock in your chosen destination in Ireland.

Condition of the property

It is vital to get a professional surveyor to inspect any property you wish to purchase. It’s possible that the Regency property you have fallen in love could have serious structural problems.

As in the UK, neither the seller nor their estate agent have to disclose any issues regarding the property’s condition in Ireland. A building inspection will require an independent surveyor. One can search the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland’s (SCSI) Register.

There are 3 types of surveys, each with increasing levels of detail9

• Type 1 – A brief walk-through of your property and summary report
• Type 2: A more thorough inspection. It checks things like drainage, borders, insulation, and planning.
• Type 3: A complete survey. The surveyor will test things like central heating.

Another thing to keep an eye on

All homes for sale in Ireland have to have a Building Energy Rating 3 (BER3). This shows how energy efficient the property. It is important to check this rating as it can affect your energy bills.

You also need to verify that the property is not in a High Radon Area. Radon is radioactive gas. It forms when the ground’s uranium begins to decay. This can lead to lung cancer. The Radon risk map is available to view. Additional information can be found at the Environmental Protection Agency.

How do you buy property from abroad?

There are many steps that go into buying a property in Ireland, but they are not as similar as the UK. Here is a guide to what you can expect.

1. To see if you are eligible for pre-approval, arrange your finances.
2. Locate a lawyer
3. Start house hunting.
4. Select a property to offer and pay a booking deposit.
5. A building survey can be done
6. The estate agent and solicitor will prepare the contract for sale. This contracts binds each party to the successful completion of the transaction.
7. Your solicitor will execute the Title Requisitions. The Deed of Conveyance is drafted.
8. Get approved for a mortgage, exchange contracts and pay all taxes
9. Grab the keys and move into your new home.

What are the legal requirements for purchasing a property here in Ireland?

The requirements for property purchase in Ireland are relatively straightforward. There are however a few important points to remember:

• All estate agents in Ireland must be licensed by PSRA to legally sell properties in Ireland9 – Most licenses will be available.
• According to the law, property purchases in Ireland9 are overseen by a Commissioner to Oaths (similarly to a notary). A small fee is charged for their services. We’ll take a look at this in a moment.
• For legal purchase of property in Ireland as an international buyer, you do not need a visa. Neither does the UK or Ireland citizens need one to live in Ireland.
• If you cancel after the contract of Sale has been signed, your deposit may be lost.

How do you get a loan/mortgage from the bank?

It is often easier to get a mortgage loan from an Irish lender if someone is already living in Ireland or a citizen of Ireland. You might have trouble obtaining a mortgage on a property in Ireland if you are a non-resident. It is likely that you won’t be able to obtain a mortgage in the UK for a property located in Ireland.

There are solutions. First, find an Irish lender with strong UK presence. A mortgage broker that is experienced in both the UK market and Ireland can help you locate the right lender.

You can also live in Ireland for a brief period before buying your property. Lenders may require that you have a record of living and working in Ireland over a minimum of six months.

After you’ve found the right mortgage for you, these are the important facts that you should know before you submit your application12

• While you cannot borrow more than 3.5 times your gross annual income, there are some exceptions available for first-time or second-time buyers.
• Deposits of minimum 10% (first-time buyers) and 20% (all buyers) are required. Minimum 30% deposit is required by buy-to–let investors.
• You will need to pass a “stress test” for your mortgage, which examines your income as well as spending habits.
• You will need to have life insurance in order to protect your mortgage.

What fees and taxes will I need?

Here’s an overview of the main expenses involved in purchasing property in Ireland9

• Solicitors fees – in Ireland there is no set price. These fees can be either flat fees or a percentage. Flat fees start around EUR900 +VAT. While percentage fees are about 1% +VAT.
• Mortgage valuation fee – between EUR150-EUR200, if applicable
• Stamp duty: 1% of the property value, up to EUR1million (2% beyond this threshold).
• Search fees – around EUR150
• Land Registry Fees – EUR400 for properties below EUR50,000. This rises to EUR800 if properties are more than EUR400,000. You will also need to pay a EUR175 mortgage fee, and a EUR40 fee if you want a certified copy or the title plans.
• Commissioner for Oaths/notary charge – EUR44

Budgeting will also be necessary for both life and home insurance.

Sources for this article:

1. Global Property Guide– House price increases in Ireland
2. Global Property Guide: Investment analysis for the Irish real-estate market
3. Citizens Information: Steps in buying a house
4. Currencytransfer.com: Buying property in Europe after Brexit
5. Citizens Information – residence right of non-EEA nationals
6. Expatica – value of the pound to euro since Brexit
7. Property Prices Comparison between Ireland and the UK
8. Seaspray – Average property prices in Ireland
9. Property Guides Number of Brits In Ireland
10. International Buyers Watch Top real estate websites in Ireland
11. CCPC– Steps to purchase property in Ireland
12. Online Loan Advisor – Mortgages in Ireland
13. Money Guidance Ireland: Buying a House in Ireland While Living Abroad