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Irish Ex-pat Mortgages

Purchase a property in Ireland while living and working abroad with Ex-Pat Mortgage

Benefits Summary

🔸 Purchase a property in Ireland without needing to be physically present.

🔸 30% deposit required.

🔸 Borrow up to 4 times your qualifying income, or your combined income if applying jointly.

🔸 Max mortgage term is 25 years.

🔸 Applicants must not own another Irish property.

🔸 Grants are available for first-time buyers (new builds only - excludes new builds).

🔸 At least one applicant must have either an Irish passport and an Irish PPS number.

🔸 Non-Irish nationals must have an Irish work permit to use their salary as qualifying income.

WHAT IS AN EX-PAT MORTGAGE?

An Ex-Pat Mortgage allows Irish citizens living overseas to purchase residential properties in Ireland without being physically present. It works like a regular mortgage but comes with stricter requirements. That’s why having the right support is essential.

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Who Can Apply?

To qualify for an Irish Expat Mortgage, you must meet the following criteria:

  • At least one applicant must be an Irish citizen, hold an Irish passport, and have a PPS number.
  • Be in continuous employment for more than 2 years.
  • Applicants can apply individually or jointly with a partner/spouse. However, to apply jointly, all applicants must have an Irish work permit/visa.
  • Must meet standard mortgage lending criteria.
  • 30% deposit require.
  • Only applicable for completed properties (not for self-builds).

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A MORTGAGE BEFORE MOVING TO IRELAND

1. Documentation Required

You’ll need:

  • Passport & proof of address.
  • 6 months of bank & credit card statements.
  • Recent payslips & job details.
  • If self-employed: tax returns, business accounts & bank statements.
  • Credit reports are translated, if not in English, from the country where you reside. If you hold bank accounts in any other country, the credit report is also required.
  • CV, showing all qualifications and advising on any employment gaps.

2. Save for a Deposit

  • Most lenders require at least a 30% deposit. For a €500,000 property, that means showing €150,000 in savings.
  • If any applicant has paid income taxes in Ireland for the past 4 years, they can qualify for the Help-to-Buy government incentive (newly built houses only qualify).

3. Check Your Credit Report

Your credit history is key.

A Credit Report will be required for both applicants in Ireland and the country where they are currently residing.

  • Before leaving: Get your report from agencies in your country (e.g., Experian UK, Equifax Australia).
  • If you're in the Middle East, get your credit report and proof of earnings before you leave — it’s very hard to access them later.

4. Get Your Finances in Shape

  • Pay bills on time.
  • Avoid new loans or credit cards.
  • Save consistently.
  • Avoid gambling transactions.
  • Don’t switch jobs right before applying.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's)​

Q1. Can an expat get a mortgage in Ireland

Ans: Yes, expats can absolutely get a mortgage in Ireland. With Expat Mortgages Ireland, Irish citizens living abroad can purchase residential properties in Ireland—even while working overseas. You’ll typically need a 30% deposit, proof of stable income, and a strong credit history.

Q2. How to buy a house in Ireland as an Ex-Pat

Ans: As an expat looking to purchase property in Ireland, you should:

  • Prove Irish citizenship (passport & PPS number)
  • Be in employment for at least 2 years
  • Provide credit reports, payslips, and bank statements
  • Secure a 30% deposit

Partnering with an experienced Expat Mortgage Broker in Ireland ensures your documents and eligibility are aligned for fast approval.

Q3. What deposit amount is expected when applying for an Expat mortgage?

Ans: If you’re applying for an Expat Mortgage in Ireland, be prepared to provide a minimum 30% deposit. This means if you’re buying a €400,000 property, you’ll need at least €120,000 in savings. The Help-to-Buy scheme may assist first-time buyers on new builds, subject to eligibility.

Q4. How long do I have to live in Ireland to get a mortgage?

Ans: You don’t have to live in Ireland to apply for an Irish Expat Mortgage. In fact, you can purchase a home from abroad, as long as you meet the criteria. However, if you’re planning to return, having Irish ties, such as a PPS number and previous tax records, can support your application.

Q5. Does investing in Irish property allow you to obtain residency rights?

Ans: No, purchasing a house in Ireland does not automatically grant residency. However, if you are an Irish citizen returning from abroad, home ownership through an Expat Mortgage Ireland can be part of your relocation strategy.

Q6. Can I get a mortgage if I have lived abroad?

Ans: Yes. Many Irish citizens living abroad can qualify for an Expat Mortgage in Ireland. You’ll need to provide full credit reports from both Ireland and your current country of residence, along with payslips, job history, and proof of savings.

Q7. Can I buy a house in Ireland if I don’t live there?

Ans: Yes, you can. With the support of an Expat Mortgage Advisor Ireland, you can complete the entire mortgage process remotely. This includes submitting your documents online and working with Irish lenders who accept expat applications.

Q8. What amount of money is needed to buy a house in Ireland?

Ans: Aside from the 30% deposit, you should budget for legal fees, valuation reports, and any applicable taxes. An Expat Mortgage Calculator Ireland can help estimate your total costs based on your budget, income, and loan size.

Q9. Can a non-citizen buy property in Ireland?

Ans: Yes, non-citizens can purchase property. However, only Irish citizens or visa holders with a valid Irish work permit can qualify for income-based mortgage assessments. If you’re a foreign national, speak with a broker about your eligibility for Expat Mortgages in Ireland.

Q10. What is the age limit for securing a mortgage in Ireland?Which banks offer expat mortgages?

Ans: Not all Irish banks offer mortgages to expats. That’s why working with an expert Expat Mortgage Broker in Ireland is key. We compare all top expat mortgage lenders in Ireland to find the most competitive rates and smoothest approval process.

🔍 More Helpful Guides & Advice for IRISH EX-PAT MORTGAGES

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