Structured Arrival Plan for Ireland
Your step-by-step action plan for a smooth transition to life in Ireland, covering your first 24 hours, 3 days, and first week.
First Week Tasks
Quick Resources
"Céad Míle Fáilte" means "A Hundred Thousand Welcomes" in Irish. Navigate your first days in Ireland with our comprehensive post-arrival guide.
Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming. This structured timeline breaks down essential tasks and helps you prioritize during your crucial first days in Ireland. Following this plan will help you settle in smoothly, fulfill legal requirements, and prepare for successful studies.
First 24 Hours in Ireland
Priority Focus
Airport Arrival
Immigration Control
Have your passport, visa (if required), university acceptance letter, and proof of accommodation ready. The immigration officer may ask about your plans in Ireland.
Baggage Collection
Proceed to the baggage claim area after clearing immigration. Free luggage trolleys are available. Check the display screens for your flight's assigned carousel.
Customs Clearance
Pass through the customs area. Choose the green channel if you have nothing to declare, or the red channel if you have items to declare (large amounts of cash, restricted goods).
Currency & SIM Card
Consider getting some euros from ATMs in the arrivals hall (better rates than currency exchange booths). Major Irish airports also have shops where you can purchase SIM cards.
Getting to Accommodation
Transport Options
- Aircoach/Bus: Public buses and airport coaches connect major airports to city centers
- Taxi: Available directly outside the arrivals area, more expensive but convenient with luggage
- University Shuttle: Check if your university offers airport pickup services (especially during orientation periods)
Dublin Airport Transport
- Airlink Express (Route 747): Direct service to Dublin city center
- Dublin Bus: Routes 16 and 41 connect to various parts of Dublin
- Aircoach: Premium service to Dublin city and surrounding areas
Accommodation Check-in
Have your booking confirmation ready. Note check-in/out times, as some accommodations have limited reception hours. If arriving late, inform your accommodation in advance.
First Day Essentials
Connectivity
- Purchase an Irish SIM card (Three, Vodafone, Eir, or Tesco Mobile)
- Connect to WiFi at your accommodation
- Inform family of your safe arrival
- Save emergency contacts on your phone
Basic Supplies
- Locate nearby grocery stores (Tesco, SuperValu, Dunnes, Lidl, or Aldi)
- Purchase essentials: water, snacks, toiletries, adaptors
- Get some basic cleaning supplies if needed
- Check if your accommodation provides bedding and towels
Basic Orientation
- Explore your immediate surroundings
- Identify nearest public transport stops
- Locate essential services (pharmacy, ATM)
- Find a route to your university (if nearby)
First 24 Hours: Pitfalls to Avoid
Doing Too Much
Don't try to accomplish everything on day one. Rest, recover from jet lag, and focus only on immediate necessities.
Ignoring Time Differences
Adjust to local time as quickly as possible. Try to stay awake until a reasonable local bedtime, even if you're tired.
Overlooking Emergency Information
Make sure you know how to contact emergency services (dial 112 or 999) and have your accommodation's address and contact details saved.
Forgetting to Check University Communications
Check your university email for orientation information and important announcements, even on your first day.
First 3 Days
Building Foundations
University International Office
Visit the International Office
Visit your university's international student office within your first 2-3 days. This should be a priority as they provide essential information specific to your institution and help with immediate concerns.
Required Documents
Bring your passport, original acceptance letter, visa documentation, and proof of fee payment (if applicable). The office may need to make copies for their records.
Orientation Information
Get details about orientation programs, which typically include campus tours, essential information sessions, and opportunities to meet other students. Orientation is crucial for understanding campus facilities, academic expectations, and student supports.
Student ID Card
Complete the process to get your student ID card, which provides access to buildings, libraries, and often serves as a payment method on campus. Some universities may require a photograph to be taken on-site.
Exploring Your Surroundings
Campus Exploration
- Locate key academic buildings relevant to your program
- Find the central library and department-specific libraries
- Identify student services: health center, counseling, careers
- Locate student union facilities and common areas
- Find quiet study spaces and computer labs
Local Area Navigation
- Locate nearest grocery stores and shopping areas
- Identify public transport routes between accommodation and university
- Find local healthcare services: pharmacies, doctors, hospitals
- Note locations of post offices and banks
- Discover affordable cafés and restaurants near campus
Days 2-4 Checklist
Visit university international office
University
Book IRP appointment
Documentation
Collect student ID card
University
Research bank account options
Finance
Attend orientation sessions
University
Explore campus facilities
University
Get a Leap Card for public transport
Local Transport
Locate healthcare services
Health
Join student social media groups
Social
Map grocery stores and pharmacies
Essentials
Prepare documents for IRP appointment
Documentation
Set up your university email/portal
University
First Week
Settling In
Orientation & Registration
09:00
University registration
Student Services Building
11:00
Campus tour
Meet at Student Union
14:00
Library orientation
Main Library
16:00
Welcome reception
International Office
Important Notes
- Bring necessary documents for each activity
- Check weather forecast and dress appropriately
- Keep your student ID and emergency contacts handy
- Take photos of important locations for future reference
Week 1 Tips
Academic Success
- Attend all orientation sessions
- Meet with your academic advisor
- Familiarize yourself with the library
- Join study groups early
Social Integration
- Join student clubs and societies
- Attend welcome events
- Connect with other international students
- Explore the city with new friends
Essential Services & Contacts
Quick Access
Emergency Services
Emergency Services
Dial 112 or 999
Garda Síochána (Police)
Non-emergency: 1800 666 111
Healthcare Services
University Health Center
Contact your university's health center
Local GP (Doctor)
Register with a local GP practice
Transportation Services
Dublin Bus
Customer Service: 01 873 4222
Irish Rail
Customer Service: 01 836 6222
Banking Services
Bank of Ireland
Customer Service: 1800 946 764
AIB Bank
Customer Service: 1800 724 724
Important Reminders
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Cultural Adaptation & Tips
Cultural Integration
Social Etiquette
- Irish people are generally friendly and informal - first names are commonly used
- Punctuality is appreciated but there's a relaxed attitude to time
- Small talk about weather is very common and appreciated
- Direct eye contact shows interest and engagement
Communication Style
- Irish humor is often self-deprecating and witty
- People tend to be indirect when saying no or disagreeing
- Storytelling is a valued part of social interaction
- Slang and local expressions are common in casual conversation
Cultural Activities
- Traditional music sessions in pubs (known as "trad sessions")
- Gaelic games (hurling, Gaelic football)
- Literary events and poetry readings
- Local festivals and community celebrations
Practical Tips
- Learn some basic Irish phrases (Gaeilge)
- Understand the importance of "the craic" (fun/enjoyment)
- Be prepared for changeable weather
- Respect local customs and traditions
Cultural Adaptation Tips
Embrace the Local Pace
Irish people value conversation and social interaction. Don't rush interactions - take time to engage in casual conversation.
Weather Adaptation
Always carry a light rain jacket or umbrella. The weather can change quickly, and being prepared is part of local life.
Social Etiquette
Irish people are generally friendly and welcoming. A simple "How are you?" is a common greeting, even with strangers.
Next Steps & Resources
Moving Forward
Academic Resources
- Access your university's learning management system
- Set up your student email and IT accounts
- Familiarize yourself with library resources
- Join relevant academic support groups
Support Services
- Register with a local GP (doctor)
- Set up a bank account and mobile phone
- Connect with student counseling services
- Join international student support groups
Useful Resources
Student Portal
Access your university's student portal for academic information, timetables, and resources.
Student Union
Connect with your student union for social events, support services, and student advocacy.
International Office
Visit the international office for visa support, cultural events, and international student services.
Ready to Complete Your Official Registration?
Learn about the essential next steps: enrolling at your university and handling mandatory registration in Ireland.
University Enrollment Guide