Are you planning on retiring to Ireland? We don’t blame you – the beautiful countryside, the relaxed way of life, all those pubs, not to mention the fact that house prices are at a record low which means some truly fantastic bargains are out there just waiting for you to snap them up.
Article written by The Overseas Guides Company
One recurring issue that concerns people when they think about retiring abroad is the standard of healthcare that they are likely to receive. With this in mind today the Ireland Buying Guide have outlined the main things that you need to know before you retire to the Emerald Isle.
- The Irish healthcare system is divided into two categories which determine which medical services you are entitled to and for how much. If you fall into Category One you will be given a medical card that will entitle you to a complete range of medical services free of charge. Those who fall into Category Two will still be entitled to healthcare but there will be some limitations placed on this.
- Those who are working and pensioners will receive a medical card automatically.
- If you are retiring to the Republic of Ireland, in addition to healthcare you will be entitled to your UK state retirement pension as well as any incapacity benefit at the long-term rate.
- In addition, if you are over the age of 65, you are entitled to free home visits from a nurse or Occupational Therapist free of charge.
- For a nominal fee, you can get Meals on Wheels and a home health services and it is possible to receive a grant to cover the costs of any house alterations that you might need to make to help you with mobility.
Over all, the healthcare that you will receive as a retiree in Ireland is similar to that of the UK meaning that although it is generally of a high standard, waiting times can be quite long. For this reason, many opt for private healthcare.
For details of property for sale in Ireland, visit the Ireland listing on Rightmove Overseas. One way to save money when buying and restoring property in Ireland is to use a currency specialist when transferring your pounds into euros to complete the purchase. For more information on this, contact Smart Currency Exchange
To understand the full step-by-step process to buying a property in Ireland, collect The Overseas Guides Company’s ‘Ireland Property Buying Guide’
The views and comments herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Rightmove Overseas, Rightmove Group Ltd or Rightmove Plc