Bank of Ireland launches new account opening service to support returning emigrants and international students

4 June 2025 – Bank of Ireland has announced the launch of a bespoke account opening service to support individuals relocating to Ireland for work, study, or to return home. By offering early access and personalised support, the new “Coming to Ireland” service aims to make the financial transition easier with a bank account that is set up and ready to use from the moment they arrive.

The service supports the needs of returning Irish citizens, international students, and foreign professionals, including those entering Ireland’s thriving technology and healthcare sectors. Over 149,000 people moved to Ireland in the 12 months to the end of April 2024, according to the Central Statistics Office, including 30,000 returning Irish citizens.

Key features of the ‘Coming to Ireland’ service include:

  • Early application access: Customers can apply for their account up to 45 days before arriving in Ireland, allowing them to manage their finances from day one.
  • Dedicated case manager: Each applicant is assigned a personal case manager who will contact them within 48 hours of submitting their application to guide them through the process.

The initiative also supports HR departments and recruitment agencies working with multinational companies, as well as third-level institutions welcoming international students.

Commenting, Susan Russell, CEO Retail Ireland, Bank of Ireland, said:

“Whether you’re returning home after years abroad, or moving to Ireland for the first time, the experience can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to managing finances. Our ‘Coming to Ireland’ service is designed to remove barriers and provide peace of mind. By offering early access and personalised support, we’re helping people feel at home in Ireland from the moment they arrive.”

Note to Editors

Customers can apply online or at any Bank of Ireland branch. To complete the application, customers will need:

  • Valid photo identification – Accepted documents include a passport, driver’s license, or EU National ID card. A selfie will also be required during the application process.
  • Proof of address – Accepted documents include a utility bill, financial statement, or official letter from the Revenue Commissioners, an approved university, the CAO, the Department of Social Welfare, or the Naturalisation and Immigration Service.

All proof of address documents must be in English. If not, they must be translated before submission.

Customers must update their address to a Republic of Ireland address within 60 days of opening the account. Failure to do so will result in the account being blocked, and subsequently closed if not updated within an additional 30 days.

For more information, visit: Coming To Ireland | Apply for a Current Account | Bank of Ireland|