Ireland — Living: Safety

Why this matters

A safe living environment is essential for expats, particularly those with families, to feel secure and able to adapt to their new surroundings.

Key facts

• Terrorism: There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.
• Demonstrations: Demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities.
• Crime: Take precautions to reduce the risk of bag-snatching or pickpocketing.
• Laws and cultural differences: Possession of even small quantities of drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties.
• Transport risks: If you are planning to drive in Ireland, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Ireland guide .

Steps

1. Assessing Personal Safety — Research areas and neighborhoods, be aware of local conditions, and follow advice from authorities and locals.
2. Protecting Valuables — Use standard precautions to secure homes and properties, and consider investing in a safe or secure storage for valuable items.

Costs

• Home Security Systems: Can range from €500 to €2,000 or more, depending on the system and installation costs.

Timelines

• Integration into Local Community: Can take several months to a year or more, depending on individual efforts and social connections.

Common mistakes

• Underestimating the importance of local knowledge and community connections.
• Failing to research areas thoroughly before moving.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out  how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . Terrorism in Ireland: Terrorist attacks in Ireland cannot be ruled out.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations, political gatherings, or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Whilst most demonstrations are peaceful, they can cause disruption, including to transport routes. If you’re near areas where they are taking place, you should remain aware of what is happening around you and follow the advice of the police and local authorities.

Crime

Take precautions to reduce the risk of bag-snatching or pickpocketing. Avoid carrying valuables and large amounts of money. Lock your vehicle and park where possible in a secure car park. Most incidents occur in the larger cities.

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs: Possession of even small quantities of drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport. Do not offer to carry any items for anyone else when entering or leaving Ireland. Airports in Ireland have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Transport risks

Road travel: If you are planning to drive in Ireland, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Ireland guide . The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of. If you are visiting Ireland, you may be able to use your Blue Badge in some circumstances. Check local parking rules.