Discovering Ireland - Guide for Daily Living

Payment Methods Most payments in shops, restaurants, and petrol stations are made by debit or credit card. You will be asked to enter your personal identification number (PIN) into a handset. The PIN is the same one used to withdraw cash from ATMs. The PIN is issued to you on opening an account and can be changed at an ATM. You can usually also order statements and look at your balance. All major banks also provide on-line and telephone banking . In some larger retailers you can pay using contactless technology if both your card and the retailer's card machine shows the contactless logo. Hold your card briefly over the card machine when instructed, and the payment will be taken with no need to enter your PIN. Every now and then, you will be asked to enter your PIN for additional security. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express all support this system. Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) and Debit Cards All banks have ATMs (cash machines) through which you can withdraw cash (Euro only) using your PIN. (Note some cash machines may charge a fee for the withdrawal) . Provided your debit card bears the Visa or MasterCard symbol, you will be able to use it in virtually any machine. However, to arrange cash transfers, and standing orders, you will need to go into your own bank or use online banking. Credit Cards The major international credit cards are widely accepted for goods and services. Debit cards are also popular. Almost all credit card providers have a credit scoring system and newly arrived foreign nationals may find they do not score enough points. Credit History Banks require proof of identity and references to open an account, which is needed to establish a credit rating. We recommend asking your home country bank for a letter of reference before departure. Alternatively, your employers may help with an introduction. Bringing copies of your home country bank statements can make this process easier.

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Discovering Ireland