Relocating from Dublin to London: Ireland-UK Common Travel Area Guide
Moving between Dublin and London is uniquely streamlined under the Common Travel Area (CTA), allowing Irish and British citizens to live and work without visa sponsorship while comparing two premier European corporate hubs.
Dublin
London
1. Statutory Tax System Differences
Ireland’s 40% higher rate cuts in early (€42,000 for a single person in 2024/2026), alongside the Universal Social Charge (USC). The UK higher rate begins at £50,270. Overall statutory net take-home is moderately higher in the UK on middle incomes.
2. Housing Market, Rents & Deposit Conventions
Both cities suffer from severe housing constraints. While London rents are nominally higher, Dublin’s acute shortage can make securing a lease equally challenging.
3. Transit, Healthcare & Daily Living Overhead
London’s transit network is vastly more extensive than Dublin’s DART and Luas systems, reducing dependence on cars or proximity to central business districts.
4. Year 1 Transition Factors & Moving Checklist
- No visa requirements for Irish or British citizens under the Common Travel Area
- National Insurance number (NINo) allocation upon arrival in the UK
- Opening a UK sterling bank account and transferring Euro savings via competitive FX channels
Frequently Asked Financial Questions
Do Irish citizens need a visa to work in London post-Brexit?
No. Under the Common Travel Area agreement, Irish citizens have full rights to live and work in the UK without a visa or sponsorship.
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