Essentials for International Students

To open a bank account in Ireland, you will need: 

• An Irish address 
• Completion of your online registration at TU Dublin 
• Your Confirmation of Registration Letter – available from the Student Hub  

You can book an appointment with major banks such as Allied Irish Bank (AIB) and Bank of Ireland (BOI) using the links below.  

Documents Required for Your Appointment 

1. Valid Passport or National ID Card. 
2. Confirmation of Registration Letter 
3. TU Dublin Student Card (required by AIB). 

Bank Appointment Links 

• AIB 
• BOI 

Online Banking Options 

If you prefer an alternative to traditional banks, consider online banking platforms such as Revolut, N26, and Wise: 

• Revolut: Offers quick account setup, digital money management, and low-cost international transactions. It also provides a physical card for everyday spending and supports budgeting tools within the app. 

• N26: A mobile-first bank offering similar features, including easy account opening, spending insights, and international transfers. 

• Wise (formerly TransferWise): Primarily designed for international money transfers, Wise also offers a multi-currency account. It is ideal for students needing to send or receive money across borders with minimal fees. 

These platforms are convenient and often quicker to set up than traditional banks. Please be aware that some services - such as receiving your salary or setting up direct debits for utilities - may still require an account with an Irish bank. 

Ireland has several mobile phone providers offering both prepay and bill pay options.  

For the most current information and specific plan details, please visit the providers' official websites or contact their customer service. 

• 3 Mobile 
• Vodafone 
• Eir 
• GoMo 
• An Post Mobile 
• 48.ie 

Ordering a SIM Card 

You can also order SIM cards online from your preferred provider and have them delivered to your accommodation. 

e-SIMs 

Vodafone offers e-SIMs, which can be set up online without visiting a store or using a physical SIM card. This is ideal if your phone supports e-SIMs. For more details, visit their e-SIM Information Page. 

Using Your Mobile Phone in Ireland 

You can either purchase a new phone in Ireland or use your existing phone. If you plan to use your current phone, ensure the following: 

• Unlocked Phone: Your phone must be unlocked to accept an international SIM card. Contact your current network provider to request an unlocking code if needed. 
• Compatibility: Verify that your phone can work with Irish mobile networks. 
• Check Unlock Status: Insert a SIM card from a different network to check if your phone is unlocked. 

Remember to bring a SIM card removal tool to easily switch SIM cards when you arrive in Ireland. 

As an international student in Dublin, you will find a wide range of options for groceries, dining out, and food delivery to suit your needs and budget. 

Groceries 

Dublin has many supermarkets and stores where you can purchase groceries, including: 

• Lidl and Aldi: Affordable options for fresh produce, food staples, and household items. 

• SuperValu,  Tesco and Dunnes Stores: Offer a wide selection of international products, including specialty foods. 

• Asian, African, and Middle Eastern Stores: Found throughout Dublin, these stores provide authentic ingredients for a taste of home. 

• Markets: Visit local farmers’ markets such as Temple Bar Food Market or Marley Park Food and Farmers Market for fresh and organic produce. 

Dining Out 

Dublin has a vibrant food scene with options for every budget: 

• Student-Friendly Cafés and Restaurants: Look out for meal deals and discounts near campuses. 
• Cultural Cuisine: Explore a variety of international cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, Italian, and Middle Eastern, at reasonable prices. 
• Takeaway Chains: Popular options like Domino’s, Supermac’s, and Apache Pizza often have student discounts. 

Food Delivery 

Food delivery services are widely available in Dublin, offering convenience for busy students: 

• Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats: Provide access to a wide variety of restaurants and takeaway options across the city. 

• Grocery Delivery: Many supermarkets, including Tesco and Dunnes Stores, offer online shopping with home delivery. 

Budget Tips 

• Check for discounts or loyalty schemes at supermarkets and restaurants. 

• Plan meals ahead to avoid overspending on takeaways. 

• Use apps like Too Good to Go to buy surplus food at a reduced cost from local shops.  

The Student Leap Card is the essential travel card for students in Ireland, offering significant savings on public transport and additional discounts at selected retailers. 

Key Benefits 

• Public Transport Discounts: Enjoy reduced fares on Irish Rail, Dublin Bus, Luas, and Bus Éireann, making commuting more affordable. 

• Retail Discounts: Access exclusive offers at participating shops, cafes, and entertainment venues across Ireland. 

How to Get a Student Leap Card 

1. Apply online at the Student Leap Card website or through the TU Dublin Students' Union. 
2. Provide proof of student status, such as your TU Dublin student card. 
3. Pay the application fee (check the website for the latest price). 

For more information, visit the TU Dublin SU Services page: TU Dublin SU Services. 

Using Your Card 

• Top up your Leap Card online or at authorised outlets. 

• Tap your card on the reader when boarding public transport to enjoy discounted fares. 

• Check the Leap Card website for updated discounts and offers.