Moving from Dublin to London

Moving from Dublin to London represents a significant change that requires careful planning and understanding of both cities.

Quick Pre-Move Checklist

Valid passport or EU ID card
Job offer letter or proof of employment
Proof of address in London
Bank statements from Irish accounts
National Insurance Number application (book appointment at gov.uk)

Housing Options

London’s rental market moves quickly, with most properties being let within days of listing.

Popular areas for Irish expatriates include:

Kilburn (North West London)
Clapham (South London)
Islington (North London)
Hammersmith (West London)

Transportation

Purchase an Oyster card or contactless bank card for public transport (Transport for London).

Transport Option	Monthly Cost (approx)
Zone 1-2 Travel Card	£142
Zone 1-4 Travel Card	£200

Banking

Open a UK bank account with institutions that offer easy setups for Irish residents:

Monzo (digital bank, quick setup)
Revolut (digital bank, supports both EUR and GBP)
Barclays (traditional bank, Irish partnership)

Healthcare

Cost Comparison

Expense	Dublin	London
1-bed apartment (city center)	€1,800	£1,900
Monthly transport pass	€140	£142

Moving Services

Recommended moving companies for Dublin-London relocations:

Careline Moving (+44 208 427 5656)
Irish Moving Company (+353 1 628 0777)
Crown Relocations (+44 208 563 6767)

Important Timeline

3 months before: Research areas and start job hunting
2 months before: Book moving company and temporary accommodation
1 month before: Begin packing and notify Irish services of departure
2 weeks before: Arrange final utility readings in Dublin
1 week before: Forward mail through An Post’s mail forwarding service

Keep all important documents, including PPS number and Irish references, as they may be needed for various applications in London.

Cultural Adjustment

While both cities share many cultural similarities, there are notable differences to prepare for:

Faster-paced lifestyle in London
More diverse international community
Different social customs and pub culture
Larger Irish expatriate networks and social groups

Professional Networking

Connect with Irish professionals through:

London Irish Business Society
Irish International Business Network
LinkedIn London-Irish professional groups

Administrative Tasks

First Week Priorities

Register for Council Tax
Set up utilities in new property
Register to vote
Update driver’s license address

Irish Community Resources

Key organizations and venues:

London Irish Centre (Camden)
Irish Cultural Centre (Hammersmith)
GAA clubs across London
Irish Embassy services

Conclusion

Moving from Dublin to London requires thorough preparation but offers exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. Success in the transition depends on early planning, proper documentation, and connecting with the local Irish community. While initial adjustments may be challenging, London’s diverse environment and robust Irish networks provide strong support for new arrivals.

Remember to maintain both Irish and UK documentation, stay connected with support services, and allow time for cultural adaptation. Regular visits to Ireland are easily manageable with frequent flights from London’s airports.

FAQs

1. What documents do I need to move from Dublin to London after Brexit?
As an Irish citizen, you can still freely move to the UK under the Common Travel Area agreement. You’ll need valid photo ID and proof of Irish citizenship. For working, you’ll need your PPS number and other relevant documentation.

2. How much should I budget for monthly living costs in London compared to Dublin?
London’s cost of living is approximately 15-20% higher than Dublin’s. Average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in London’s Zone 2-3 ranges from £1,400-£1,800, compared to Dublin’s €1,500-€1,800. Utilities, transport, and groceries are also generally more expensive in London.

3. What areas in London are popular with Irish expats?
Popular areas include Kilburn (nicknamed “County Kilburn”), Clapham, Islington, and Hampstead. These areas have strong Irish communities and good transport links to central London.

4. How do I set up a UK bank account before moving?
You can open a UK bank account with proof of address and ID. Digital banks like Monzo, Revolut, or Starling allow account opening before arrival. Traditional banks typically require you to be physically present with proof of UK address.

5. Do I need to register with a GP when moving to London?
Yes, you should register with a local GP as soon as possible after moving. You’ll need proof of address and ID. The NHS website has a tool to find nearby GP practices accepting new patients.

6. How does the London transport system differ from Dublin’s?
London’s transport system is more extensive, with the Underground (Tube), Overground, buses, and trains. Purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment. Zones determine fares, unlike Dublin’s flat-rate system.

7. What steps do I need to take regarding tax when moving from Ireland to the UK?
Inform Revenue in Ireland of your departure, complete a P85 form for UK tax purposes, and register for UK National Insurance. You’ll need to file a tax return in both countries for the tax year you move.

8. Can I transfer my Irish driving license to a UK one?
Irish licenses are valid in the UK. However, if you become a UK resident, you should exchange your Irish license for a UK one within 3 years of becoming resident.

9. How do I transfer my utilities and cancel Irish services?
Give notice to Irish utility providers (usually 30 days), take final meter readings, and settle outstanding bills. Set up UK utilities before arrival through providers like British Gas, EDF, or Thames Water.

10. What are the options for moving my belongings from Dublin to London?
Options include international removal companies (€1,000-€3,000), shipping containers (€500-€1,500), or van hire (€200-€500 plus fuel). Popular services include DPD, Man with a Van, or professional movers like Allied Pickfords.