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Banking in Ireland

Best banks in Ireland for expats & digital nomads

Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to Ireland. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.

How to open a bank account in Ireland

You typically need photo ID (passport), proof of an Irish address, and often a PPS number (Personal Public Service number). Only three main retail banks remain after Ulster Bank and KBC exited the market in 2022-2023, so many newcomers use Revolut or N26 as their first account.

Our top pick

Wise multi-currency account

Wise is the option we recommend for almost anyone moving to Ireland: hold and convert 40+ currencies, get local account details to be paid like a local, and send money at the real exchange rate with low, transparent fees. It works before you even arrive, so you can receive income and pay deposits while your local account is still being set up.

Open a free Wise account →

Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Wise is a fintech, not a bank; balances are safeguarded, not covered by deposit insurance.

Top banks in Ireland

Bank of Ireland

traditional
largest branch network

One of Ireland's two main retail banks with nationwide coverage.

AIB (Allied Irish Banks)

traditional
everyday retail banking

Major Irish retail bank; standard current accounts for residents.

Permanent TSB

traditional
simple current accounts

Third main retail bank, expanded after Ulster Bank and KBC exited Ireland.

An Post Money

traditional
accessible accounts via post offices

Banking services from the national postal operator, widely accessible.

International accounts & neobanks

Revolut

Dominant in Ireland with a very high adoption rate; Irish IBANs available.

N26

German-licensed mobile bank fully available to Ireland residents.

Bunq

Dutch EEA bank available to Ireland residents.

Payoneer

Payments platform for freelancers receiving international payments; not a local current account.

Availability changes; confirm on each provider's site.

Next steps in Ireland

See the full Ireland tax, cost and visa profile, or compare Ireland with other destinations. Not sure where to go yet? Take the finder quiz.