What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Ireland. They wrote...
"Expats may find cultural and language differences to be the most challenging aspect when settling in a new country. Adjusting to a new lifestyle can be difficult, as can making new friends and finding a job. Administrative obstacles may be another source of stress, from obtaining visas and residency permits, to opening a bank account or finding a suitable place to live. Additionally, being away from family and friends can be emotionally difficult, as can feelings of isolation. Overall, there are many challenges that an expat may face while relocating to a new country," explained one expat living in Ireland.

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"Bureaucracy. Banks, Insurance, documents, learning bus routes and how to deal with rental agents. I had several problems with "owners" and their agents. No room here to tell all the stories. Did not know about need for TV license until neighbors told us after we bought new TV. License does not cost for 65 + but one still needs to get it. Took 4 months," said another expat in Enniscorthy, Ireland.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Ireland?
- How do I meet people in Ireland?
- What is life like in Ireland?
- Is there a lot of crime in Ireland?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Ireland accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Ireland like?
- Is the cost of living in Ireland high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Ireland?
- What are healthcare services like in Ireland?
- Is the cost of living in Ireland high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Ireland?
- What is the weather like in Ireland?
- Are there good restaurants in Ireland?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Ireland?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Ireland?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Ireland?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Ireland?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Ireland?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Ireland, newcomers to Ireland would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.