PPS, IRP, Revenue
& Banking
The four administrative tasks that unlock life in Ireland, done in the right order.
1. PPS number: what it is and how to apply in Ireland
A Personal Public Service (PPS) number is required before you can start work, access public services, pay tax, or open a traditional bank account in Ireland. Apply as early as possible after arriving.
How to apply
- Create a basic MyGovID account at mygovid.ie.
- Apply online through MyWelfare and select "Apply for a PPS Number".
- Provide: valid passport (or national ID for EU citizens), proof of Irish address (signed lease or employer letter), and reason for needing a PPS number.
- You must be living in Ireland to apply online. If applying before arriving, use the in-person Intreo Centre route.
Proof of address is the most common obstacle. A signed tenancy agreement, an employer letter confirming your address, or a utility bill in your name are all accepted. Keep a copy of your lease agreement from day one. You will need it repeatedly.
Source: gov.ie: Apply for a PPS Number
2. IRP registration for non-EU nationals
Non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals who plan to stay in Ireland for more than 90 days must register their immigration permission and receive an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) within 90 days of that permission being granted.
The IRP is a biometric card confirming your right to reside in Ireland. It is required for many transactions including opening a full current account. Registration is handled by Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).
How to register
- Book an appointment at the ISD online portal (Burgh Quay if in Dublin; local Garda station if outside Dublin).
- Bring: passport, employment permit or entry permission document, proof of address in Ireland, and the €300 registration fee.
- Biometric data (photo and fingerprints) will be recorded in person.
- Your IRP card is issued within a few weeks of your appointment.
3. Revenue registration and avoiding emergency tax
Once you have your PPS number, register with Revenue Ireland immediately so your employer receives your correct tax credits and applies them from your first payslip.
Register at myAccount (ros.ie). You will need: PPS number, date of birth, phone number, email address, and home address.
Emergency tax is significant. If you start work before registering with Revenue, your employer must deduct emergency tax at 46% plus USC. This is refunded after registration, but it can take 2–3 payslips. Register with Revenue as soon as you have your PPS number, ideally before your first day of work.
4. Opening a bank account in Ireland as a new arrival
Opening an Irish bank account requires PPS number, proof of address, and in some cases a completed application form in a branch. The practical strategy for new arrivals is a two-stage approach:
Stage 1: Digital account (immediate)
Open a Revolut or N26 account online before or immediately after arriving. These can be opened without proof of address and provide an IBAN for receiving salary within days. Use this as your primary account until you have a traditional bank account.
Stage 2: Traditional current account
Once you have your PPS number and proof of address, open a current account with AIB, Bank of Ireland, or PTSB. These offer full banking infrastructure including mortgages, overdrafts, and the ability to set up direct debits for rent and utilities. Expect a 5–10 business day wait for card and account activation.
Note on proof of address: Traditional Irish banks typically accept a utility bill, bank statement, or government correspondence at your Irish address. A tenancy agreement or letter from your employer may also be accepted. Call the branch to confirm before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a PPS number?
- A PPS (Personal Public Service) number is Ireland's equivalent of a Social Security or National Insurance number. You need it to work legally, pay tax, access public services, open a bank account, and enrol children in school.
- How long does it take to get a PPS number?
- In person at an Intreo centre, same day. Online via MyWelfare.ie, 5–10 working days. You will need proof of identity, your Irish address, and a reason for needing the number — for example a job offer letter.
- Can I work in Ireland without a PPS number?
- Yes, but your employer must apply emergency tax: 40% income tax plus USC on all earnings until you provide your PPS number and register with Revenue. Apply for your number before or immediately after starting work.