Ireland is an increasingly popular retirement destination for expatriates, attracted largely by its scenic environment and relatively slow pace of life in the rural areas.

Government policies have encouraged this trend, offering free healthcare and other benefits to senior citizens such as higher exemption limits on tax, additional tax credits, fuel allowances and discounted travel.

Retired people from EU/EEA countries are usually eligible for a Medical Card for free health services without having to undergo a means test.

Ireland currently has Double Taxation treaties with 44 other countries, and others are being negotiated. People from these countries who retire in Ireland can have their pensions sent to them free of tax in their country of origin. The list of countries with which Ireland has Double Taxation treaties can be found on the Revenue website.