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/.

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