This is Part 2 of a conversation with John Healy of Healys Insurances - if you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, we'd highly recommend it before jumping into this episode!

There's more to car insurance than claiming on accidents - it's about knowing when to use, which insurance to get and what you need to bring with you as an expat to save money on your premiums.

Talking more about Car Insurance in Ireland, I’m joined by John Healy of Healy’s Insurances, an expert with over 25 years of experience in insuring cars, homes and more. Healy’s Insurances is well-known in expat circles for helping people navigate the quirks of the Irish insurance market (though most notably for Mary Doyle, or “Mary of Healy’s!”).

In this Part 2, we dig deeper into the practicalities of insuring your vehicle in Ireland, including tips to avoid common pitfalls and how to ensure a smooth process when transitioning from foreign to Irish policies. John shares his wealth of experience, including why your no-claims bonus is invaluable, how car registration impacts your premiums, and what you need to know about imported cars.

We also bust some insurance myths, cover the pros and cons of bundling policies, and discuss what to do if you’re caught in the grey zone with your license or insurance timeline. Whether you’re planning your move or are already in Ireland scratching your head over insurance, this episode is packed with advice to help you make a plan that saves you money and gets into your car as soon as possible.

1. No-Claims Bonus is Key: Your no-claims bonus document from abroad is a must-have. Make sure it’s valid, canceled where necessary, and ready before you arrive in Ireland.
2. Car Registration Matters: Your car's reg impacts your insurance quote significantly, from its history (like past accidents) to its mileage. Check the car's insurance eligibility before buying.
3. License Logistics: Foreign licenses can work temporarily, but plan early to convert to an Irish license—especially if you’re from a country without a straightforward exchange process.
4. Imported Cars = Higher Costs: Be cautious when bringing in cars from outside Ireland, as niche models or past damages could hike up premiums or even make them uninsurable.
5. Claiming on Insurance: For minor damages, weigh the cost of paying out-of-pocket against claiming—especially if you’re a younger driver or lack bonus protection.

Contact Healys for Insurance today:

Email: info@healyinsurances.ie

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/.

Mentioned in this episode:

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to...

It’s hard enough to get yourself organised to fly back to Ireland, but you need to start thinking about buying a car almost before anything else! The insurance, licensing, and timing it just right… there’s so much to think about!

Over the next two episodes, I’m joined by John Healy of Healy’s Insurances, an expert with over 25 years of experience in insuring cars, homes and more. Healy’s Insurances is well-known in expat circles for helping people navigate the quirks of the Irish insurance market (though most notably for Mary Doyle, or “Mary of Healy’s!”).

In this Part 1 episode, we chat about everything from the importance of your no-claims bonus, how to handle foreign licenses, and what you need to know about timelines for securing car insurance when you move to Ireland. It’s the best starting point for anyone who hasn’t bought or insured a car in Ireland, and you’ll have even more to look forward to in the next episode!

1. Your No-Claims Bonus is Key: This one-page document detailing your claims-free driving history is essential for securing competitive insurance rates in Ireland. Start organizing this early, as the policy must be canceled in your home country before the bonus is issued.
2. You Can Drive Temporarily on a Foreign License: Expats can use a foreign license for up to 12 months, but you'll need to exchange or replace it with an Irish license if you’re staying longer. The process varies based on your country of origin—U.S. license holders, for instance, face additional steps.
3. Budget for Licensing and Driving Lessons: If you're coming from the U.S., you'll need to pass a theory test and complete six driving lessons before taking the Irish driving test. Lessons can cost €40–€70 per session, depending on your location.
4. Timelines Matter: Insurance renewals can become tricky if you haven’t secured your Irish license within the first 12 months. Be proactive—schedule your licensing appointments as soon as possible to avoid delays.
5. A Tailored Approach to Insurance: Irish insurers often specialize in certain customer profiles. Expats with foreign licenses may find fewer insurers willing to quote, but brokers like Healy’s can help navigate these nuances and secure the best deal.

Contact Healys for Insurance today:

Email: info@healyinsurances.ie

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If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/.

Mentioned in this episode:

Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct

This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct.

On the 16th January 2025, Stephanie Wickham will be running a live webinar on the tax essentials for expats moving to Ireland.

We're used to hearing Steph talk about all aspects of expat life on the podcast, but this live session will be all about tax residency, tax domicile, taxing your investments, the Double Tax Treaty, and more!

Whether you're a U.S. Citizen who wants a change, an Irish Citizen returning after time abroad, thinking about retirement to Ireland, even if you're already here in Ireland - this session is a great way to learn the essentials you need to start getting your taxes in order.

This brilliant webinar costs €60 and is happening at 5pm GMT on the 16th of January 2025, so there's still plenty of time! Spots are limited, so sign up via the link below and get your taxes sorted!

Sign up for the Webinar (5pm Jan 16 2025)

*****

If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/.