Social Welfare Issues

Social welfare issues are some of the most important things people face when coming back or to Ireland. For all things social welfare the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection has responsibility and has the tools to help you navigate the system.

Anyone thinking of retuning to Ireland should first begin by checking out then Department of Social Protection's comprehensive information materials on the Moving to Ireland section of their website.

The most important thing you need to access social welfare services in Ireland is a Personal Public Service Number (PPS Number). For dedicated information on PPS numbers and how to apply for one, check out the dedicated PPS number webpage.

The Habitual Residence Condition is also a critical issue which needs to be addressed in order to qualify for certain payments. Before returning you should look more into this issue on the dedicated Habitual Residence webpage which has specific information for returning Irish emigrants.

Cross Care Migrant Project, an organisation which offers dedicated advice and support for returning emigrants, also has useful information regarding habitual residence on their website. They also offer guides and advice on residency information for non-Irish family members and webpages on useful links and resources.