Living in Limerick as an expatriate

Visa requirements

To work in Ireland, non-EEA nationals require a work permit known as a GNIB Card. This can be applied for online at the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) website, and requires proof of a job offer, an employment contract, and a police clearance certificate. For those planning to stay in Ireland for over three months, a residency permit is also required.

Language resources

English is the official language of Ireland, and most locals in Limerick are fluent speakers. However, learning a few simple phrases of Irish Gaelic could go a long way in helping you integrate into the community. The Limerick Central Library offers a range of Irish language resources, including books, CDs, and language courses, while the Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) offers adult education classes.

Housing

The cost of housing in Limerick is generally lower than that of other major cities in Ireland, such as Dublin and Galway. Shared accommodation is readily available, with average rents for a room in a shared house at around €600 (USD$700) per month. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs around €800 (USD$960) per month, while a two-bedroom apartment is around €1,200 (USD$1,440) per month, and three-plus bedroom houses start at around €1,500 (USD$1,820) per month. Most areas of the city offer affordable and comfortable housing options.

Groceries

Grocery prices in Limerick are reasonable and comparable to those in other major cities in Ireland. Basic staples such as bread, milk, and vegetables are readily available from local markets and supermarkets. The Limerick Milk Market, held every Saturday, is a popular destination for expats looking to sample locally produced goods, while larger supermarkets such as Tesco and Dunnes Stores offer a wide range of products at competitive prices.

Transportation

Public transportation is efficient and affordable in Limerick, with a 7-day Adult Leap Card offering unlimited travel for €20 (USD$24). A single bus fare is €2 (USD$2.40) for adults and €1 (USD$1.20) for children under 16 years old, while taxi fares are typically around €15 (USD$18) for journeys within the city limits. Owning a car is not necessary in Limerick, as the public transport network is reliable and convenient, and parking in the city center can be difficult to find.

Limerick enjoys a temperate climate, with generally mild temperatures throughout the year. The hottest months are July and August, when temperatures can reach up to 20°C (68°F), while the winter months, from December through February, are typically colder, with an average temperature of around 3°C (37.4°F). The city enjoys plenty of rainfall, with around 120 days of rain each year, making it a green, lush, and verdant cityscape. The summer months can be particularly enjoyable, with long hours of sunshine and pleasantly warm evenings.

The Limerick region is home to a diverse range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, automotive, engineering, software development, and renewable energy. Many multinational companies, including Pfizer, Dell, Cook Medical, and General Electric, have a strong presence in the region, creating a wealth of job opportunities for expats. With a low unemployment rate and an average salary of around €36,000 (USD$42,000) per year, Limerick is an excellent destination for professionals seeking employment in Ireland.

Limerick offers a comprehensive range of healthcare facilities, including a number of public and private hospitals, several primary care centers, and numerous community health centers. The University Hospital Limerick (UHL) is the region's largest hospital and provides a range of specialist services, while the Bariatric Center of Excellence at UHL offers state-of-the-art weight loss surgeries and treatments. Private health insurance is mandatory in Ireland, and healthcare costs are typically lower than those in neighboring countries such as the UK and Northern Ireland. The Limerick, Ennis, and Shannon areas all have excellent healthcare facilities, providing expats with peace of mind and easy access to medical care.

Limerick has an excellent public transportation system that includes a comprehensive bus network, operated by Bus Éireann. The Bus Éireann service runs frequently and connects all areas of the city, as well as linking Limerick to surrounding towns and villages. The city center is also served by several taxi companies, as well as a number of private car hire services. A car is not necessary in Limerick due to the efficient and reliable public transport network.

Limerick is a safe and welcoming city, with low crime rates and a low incidence of violent crime. However, expats should always be aware of their surroundings, particularly in less well-lit areas at night. The city center and popular tourist areas such as the Limerick Milk Market and the Treaty Stone are generally safe, and most crime is related to petty theft. Expats should take usual precautions, such as locking doors and windows, and ensuring that valuables are always out of sight.