Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to managing your finances. If you're an expat living in Ireland, one of the first things you'll need is a reliable bank. This guide will help you discover the best Irish banks for expats, explore top financial institutions, account options, and fees, and offer tips for managing your money. So, which bank is best in Ireland? Find your perfect solution in today's article.
Top banks in Ireland for expats
Bank of Ireland
AIB (Allied Irish Banks)
Ulster Bank
Online banks in Ireland
Opening a bank account in Ireland
Tips for managing your finances
Top banks in Ireland for expats
Irish banks: Bank of Ireland
Bank of Ireland is one of the top banks in Ireland and an excellent option for expats. They offer a range of services tailored to meet the needs of international customers. From current accounts to savings accounts, their offerings are comprehensive.
| Terms | Detals |
|---|---|
| Account options | Personal current accounts, savings accounts, student accounts, and business accounts. |
| Fees | Monthly maintenance fees for personal accounts can range from €6 to €12, but fee waivers are available for certain conditions. |
| Online banking | Bank of Ireland provides a robust online platform, making it one of the best online banks in Ireland. |
Banks in Ireland: AIB (Allied Irish Banks)
AIB is another bank on today's list of the best Irish banks for expats. AIB is known for its customer service and extensive network of branches and ATMs. It makes banking convenient for those new to Ireland.
| Terms | Detals |
|---|---|
| Account options | AIB offers various accounts, including personal, youth, graduate, and business accounts. |
| Fees | Standard current accounts have maintenance fees, but these can be avoided by maintaining a minimum balance or meeting other criteria. |
| Online banking | AIB's digital banking platform is user-friendly and offers mobile banking, making it easy for digital nomads and expats to manage their finances on the go. |
Best banks in Ireland: Ulster Bank
Ulster Bank provides a range of banking services suitable for expats, with competitive fees and extensive customer support.
| Terms | Detals |
|---|---|
| Account options | Ulster Bank offers personal current accounts, savings accounts, and student accounts. |
| Fees | Monthly fees apply, but there are options to waive them based on account activity. |
| Online banking | Their online and mobile banking services are highly rated, making Ulster Bank one of the best online banks in Ireland for expats. |
Online banks in Ireland
For expats who prefer digital banking, there are several online banks in Ireland that offer excellent services:
| Name | N26 | Revolut |
|---|---|---|
| Account options | N26 offers several account types, including free and premium options. | Revolut offers standard, premium, and metal accounts with varying features. |
| Fees | Their basic account is free, while premium accounts come with added benefits for a monthly fee. | The standard account is free, while premium accounts have a monthly fee. |
| Features | N26 provides real-time notifications, budgeting tools, and no foreign transaction fees, making it a top choice for international banking. | With features like multi-currency accounts, instant transfers, and cryptocurrency trading, Revolut is a versatile option for managing your finances abroad. |
When it comes to transferring money abroad, paying attention to fees and exchange rates is extremely important. Banks in Ireland, just like other banks anywhere else in the world, tend to offer higher commissions, charge hidden fees, and provide clients with unfavourable rates. How do you avoid these challenges when you want to support your loved ones back home? Instead of transferring via Irish banks, try money transfer services like Profee.
Profee is a licensed company offering competitive exchange rates and transparent low fees that even the best banks in Ireland cannot beat. Your first transfer from Ireland to any of 65+ destinations is commission-free. We also have a first-time client promo exchange rate for certain destinations, such as Nigeria, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, and more. Download the Profee app and experience a smooth, fast, and safe transfer today.
Opening a bank account in Ireland
When you've found your best Irish bank for expats, it's time to open a bank account. While it is typically a straightforward process, it requires some preparation. Here are the steps to follow:
- Gather required documents: You'll need proof of identity (passport), proof of address (utility bill or rental agreement), and proof of income or employment.
- Visit a branch or apply online: Depending on the bank, you can either visit a local branch or complete your application online.
- Set up online banking: Once your account is open, set up online and mobile banking to manage your finances conveniently.
Tips for managing your finances as an expat
Use online banking to manage your money efficiently. Be aware of any maintenance fees and look for ways to avoid them, such as maintaining a minimum balance. Set up direct debits: For recurring payments like rent and utilities, set up direct debits to ensure timely payments. Stay informed: Keep up with any banking regulations and service changes that might affect your accounts. Use Profee instead of banks in Ireland for global money transfers.
Choosing the best Irish bank for expats involves considering various factors such as account options, fees, and online banking services. Whether you prefer traditional banking with institutions like Bank of Ireland and AIB or the convenience of digital banks like N26 and Revolut, Ireland offers a range of options to meet your needs. By following the steps to open a bank account and managing your finances wisely, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free banking experience in Ireland.
