So you’ve got your offer from Trinity College Dublin, you’ve stalked the campus on Instagram and Google Maps about fifty times, and now reality is hitting you: you’re actually moving to Dublin. Exciting? Yes. A little terrifying? Absolutely yes.
As an international student, there’s a lot I wish someone had told me before I packed my bags. So I’m going to break it all down for you, but take it with a pinch of salt since it’s all from my own experience. Let’s get into it 🙂
Getting to Know Dublin’s Neighbourhoods
Dublin is loosely split by the River Liffey into a Northside and a Southside. The Southside has a reputation for being a bit more polished, and the rent usually reflects that. The Northside is more affordable and, despite old stereotypes, full of lovely, safe areas.
From what I’ve seen, areas like Stoneybatter, Phibsborough, and Drumcondra, are popular with students — good vibes, easy transport links, plenty of grocery stores nearby. Like any city, a few spots right in the centre can feel a little rough late at night (I’d personally avoid Parnell Street),
Sorting Out Housing (Start Early!)
If you’re new to Dublin, I genuinely recommend starting in student accommodation. Before I came, I wanted to rent a room or share a house, but when I searched on daft.ie, hardly anyone got back to me. And a heads up: scams are real, so never pay a deposit before seeing a place or signing a proper contract.
I went with the safer option and booked a room in student accommodation, which honestly took so much weight off. I knew my room was waiting for me when I landed, I had support if anything went wrong, and I could take my time exploring the city before deciding where I wanted to live long-term. Expect student housing in Dublin to be somewhere around €1,100–€1,800/month depending on whether it’s shared, en-suite or a studio, while a room in a shared flat can be cheaper. Once you’re settled, Facebook housing groups and student group chats are gold for finding a room share.
The Paperwork
Nobody’s favourite part, I know, but getting it right early saves so much stress later.
- Student visa & IRP: Your student visa (Stamp 2) gets you into the country. Once you’re here, non-EU/EEA students must register with Immigration Service Delivery within 90 days to get your Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card. You’ll book an appointment online, attend in person in Dublin (Burgh Quay) for biometrics, pay the €300 registration fee, and the card arrives by post within a couple of weeks. Keep it with you, because you’ll need it to re-enter Ireland if you travel.
- PPSN: Your Personal Public Service Number is basically your key to working legally. Apply online by setting up a MyGovID account, then applying through MyWelfare.ie. You’ll need your passport, your IRP, proof of address, and a reason for the application.
- Work rights: Stamp 2 lets you work 20 hours/week during term and up to 40 hours/week during official holiday periods.
- Emergency tax: When you start your first job, you might get hit with emergency tax. Don’t panic! Just contact Revenue, register your employment, and get your tax credits sorted. They’re genuinely helpful and will walk you through it, and you’ll get any overpaid tax back.
Transport: Get a Student Leap Card
A Leap Card lets you travel, but a Student Leap Card lets you travel cheap. Whether it’s the Luas, the buses, or the DART, that little green card is your 24/7 partner. Students get 50% off adult fares, and there’s a 90-minute fare that lets you hop between services for around €1. You apply online at leapcard.ie and then get it verified. Handily, the Trinity Students’ Union is a Leap Card agent, so they can sort you out right on campus.
While you’re at it, pick up a local SIM once you arrive. Lyca, Three, Vodafone, 48 and GoMo all do cheap prepaid plans with no contract.
Monthly Budget: What to Actually Expect
I’d budget at least €1,000/month on top of rent, though many students realistically spend more once you add up in groceries, utilities, transport, and nights out. Dublin isn’t cheap, so it’s worth planning ahead.
Groceries can add up fast, but chasing the deals saves real money! My personal ranking is Dunnes Stores > Lidl/Aldi > Tesco. The discount supermarkets are your friends (and Dunnes loyalty offers are so satisfying).
Making Friends (It’s Easier Than You Think)
Dublin really is as friendly as everyone says, so don’t stress about this part.
- Join societies and clubs. Trinity has loads of them, from debating to film to absolutely niche hobbies, plus a huge range of sports clubs. Freshers’ Week is the perfect time to sign up for everything (and grab all the free stuff while you’re at it).
- Find your thing off campus too. I love running, so I joined a few local running clubs and met some of my closest friends that way. Whatever you’re into, there’s a Dublin group for it.
- Apps help. I made a surprising number of friends through Bumble’s friend mode!
A Few Last Things
- Picture how you want to show up in this new chapter. Having a mental image of the person you want to be in a new city genuinely builds confidence!
- The Dublin weather can make or break your mood, so invest in a good rain jacket and embrace the “four seasons in one day” energy.
- And finally, the most important advice of all: try the M&S cookies. They’re the best. You’re welcome 😉
Moving abroad is a huge leap, but Dublin makes it easy to feel at home fast. Be patient with the paperwork, lean on your fellow students, and give yourself time to settle in. You’ve got this!!🍀
