23 Apr 2024
Did you know that Ireland hosts more than 600,000 expats worldwide?
Overseas Filipino Workers make up a good ration from this amount. OFW works mostly in Ireland in IT, healthcare, and nursing. Their incomes are almost double or triple what they earned in the Philippines. This has increased their propensity to send money to Philippines from Ireland more regularly to provide financial assistance to families back home. However, the new Filipinos in Ireland often need help adjusting to Ireland's new settings. Here is a complete guide on how you can ease the transition and easily settle in the country.
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have landed in beautiful Ireland will have to thrive in a new working and living environment. Knowing your surroundings will help you greatly enhance your work and life experience in Ireland.
Irish workplaces are known for their informal atmosphere. Colleagues often address each other by first names. However, showing respect and professionalism is crucial, especially towards supervisors and managers. Punctuality is valued, and work-life balance is encouraged. It's common for discussions and decisions to happen in team meetings, so be prepared to share your ideas. With Ireland’s increasing participation in the fintech industry, it is a good option for OFWs to set their mark in the digital world.
Understanding your employment rights is very important to succeed in your career. In Ireland, you're entitled to a minimum wage, annual leave, public holidays, and breaks during work hours. Contracts should detail your job role, salary, working hours, and notice period. Read thoroughly the work contract and get clarification on any points you're unsure about. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and Citizens Information provide valuable resources and support.
Upon starting work, you'll need a Personal Public Service (PPS) number for tax and social security purposes. Ireland has a Pay as You Earn (PAYE) system, meaning taxes are deducted directly from your salary. Understanding the tax bands and credits can help manage your finances. Contributing to the social insurance system (PRSI) grants access to healthcare, unemployment benefits, and pensions. Moreover, you won’t have to pay any tax on remittance if you send money online to Philippines from Ireland.
The Irish healthcare system comprises public and private services. Holding a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you access to public healthcare at reduced costs or sometimes free. However, additional health insurance can be beneficial depending on your needs. General Practitioner (GP) services are the first point of contact for health issues, and referrals are needed for specialist treatments.
Finding suitable accommodation will determine how comfortable you are in the new country. Rental prices vary widely between cities and rural areas, with Dublin being significantly more expensive. Budgeting for living expenses beyond rent, such as utilities, food, and transportation, is essential for a balanced lifestyle.
Ireland's public transport system includes buses, trains, and trams (Luas in Dublin). Knowing the schedules and routes of local transport services can ease your daily commute. Leap Cards offer a convenient and discounted way to pay for public transport across many cities.
The Irish climate can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and moderate temperatures throughout the year. Investing in a good waterproof jacket, umbrella, and layers is advisable to stay comfortable regardless of the weather.
Connecting with the Filipino community in Ireland can provide support and friendship. Joining Filipino associations and social groups can help ease homesickness and allow sharing of experiences and advice. Participating in community events and celebrations keeps the Filipino culture alive, creating a sense of home away from home. Don’t forget to make your money transfer from Ireland to Philippines for your loved ones awaiting your financial assistance.
Enrolling in a General Practitioner (GP) service is your first step to accessing healthcare. For emergency services, hospitals are equipped to provide immediate care. Pharmacies are widely available for prescription medications and health advice.
For those seeking spiritual solace, Ireland is home to various religious communities, including Catholicism, which many Filipinos adhere to. Churches, including the St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral in Dublin, often hold services. Engaging with these communities can provide spiritual support and a sense of belonging.
As a Filipino expat working in Ireland, you might have to fulfill some financial responsibilities for your family. Often, expats need to choose the right remittance service or get stuck in the expensive banking remittance service. As a smart OFW, you should be selecting digital services that are much more convenient than banks.
ACE Money Transfer is the leading remittance service that is adept in providing convenient and smooth money transfers globally. It is a reliable and efficient service provider that makes sure that your hard-earned money reaches your loved ones safely and smoothly.
The major selling point of ACE is its convenience and cost-effectiveness. ACE offers market-competitive exchange rates along with a low transfer fee. The fee structure is completely transparent, with no hidden or receiving charges. This means more money will return to your loved ones in the Philippines. Hence, it offers the best support for your family.
Regarding security and reliability, ACE Money Transfer uses top-notch end-to-end encryption to safeguard your data from unauthorized access. It also complies with international financial regulations, meaning your money will be safe.
Another compelling reason to switch to ACE Money Transfer is the convenience and easy-to-use interface. You must only follow two easy steps to initiate your money transfer with ACE.
Creating an account with ACE Money Transfer is very simple. You'll need to provide some basic information and verification documents, such as a valid ID and proof of address in Ireland.
Once your account is set up, you can send money through their website or mobile app. Enter the recipient's details, choose the amount you wish to send, and select the payment method. You can track the transfer in real-time, so you're always informed about the status of your remittance.
ACE Money Transfer understands the importance of support and offers 24/7 customer service to address concerns or questions. Whether it’s a query about a transaction or assistance needed with account setup, the team is ready to help.
Understanding the way of life in Ireland as an OFW involves getting familiar with the workplace, adjusting to daily life, and engaging with the community. With preparation, support, and an open mind, the life transition in Ireland can be very easy and smooth. For a soft and affordable online money transfer from Ireland to Philippines, sign up on ACE for free.
No, you need to apply for an Irish driving license, as Philippine permits are not valid in Ireland for long-term residents.
Bring your passport, proof of Irish address, and PPS number to any Irish bank. Some banks may require additional documentation, such as employment details.
Yes, English is predominantly spoken, which makes communication easier for Filipinos. Irish (Gaelic) is also spoken but has not been widely used in daily conversations.
Yes, through family reunification programs, but specific eligibility criteria and applications must be met and submitted.
Use licensed remittance services or online transfer platforms that offer competitive exchange rates and low fees, like ACE Money Transfer.
