Ireland — Healthcare: Public Healthcare

Why this matters

Accessing public healthcare in Ireland can significantly impact your relocation experience and cost of living, making it essential to understand the system and potential costs involved.

Key facts

• Current health expenditure: 6.9 % of GDP (2024)
• Government share of current health expenditure: 77 % (2023)
• Out-of-pocket share of current health expenditure: 11 % (2024)
• Physicians: 3.9 per 1,000 people (2023)
• Hospital beds: 3.0 per 1,000 people (2023)
• Life expectancy at birth: 83.0 years (2024)

Steps

1. Step 1: Determine Eligibility — Research the eligibility criteria for non-EU residents and contact the relevant authorities to confirm your eligibility for public healthcare in Ireland.
2. Step 2: Register with the HSE — If eligible, register with the Health Service Executive (HSE) to access public healthcare services, including Doctor Visit Cards (GPCs) and medical cards.
3. Step 3: Apply for a Doctor Visit Card (GPC) — Apply for a Doctor Visit Card (GPC), which provides access to public healthcare services, including consultations with a GP and prescription medication.

Costs

• Doctor Visit Card (GPC) application fee: €50 (varies by application method)
• Registration with the HSE: free

Timelines

• Eligibility determination and registration process: 2-6 weeks

Required documents

• Valid residence permit
• Proof of income (for those eligible based on income)
• Proof of pre-existing medical conditions (if applicable)

Common mistakes

• Assuming eligibility based on EU residency status
• Not contacting the relevant authorities to confirm eligibility

What these figures do not cover

These are national statistics. Who is eligible for the public system, how a foreign resident enrols, what it costs and waiting times are not covered here.