Banking, Currency and Taxes in Ireland The Irish banking system is modern and there are branches of all the major
Irish banks in all but the smallest of places. Most branches have modern cash
dispensers that enable visitors from other countries to withdraw cash from their
bank and credit card accounts. This is convenient because travellers can withdraw
only the amount of money they need and thereby avoid carrying around large amounts
of cash. This method and the direct use of credit cards are becoming the most
common means of paying for items for most travellers. Travellers' cheques provide
security, but banks charge a hefty transaction fee for cashing them.
Check with your local Irish consular authority concerning importing or exporting
large amounts of cash in any currency. The Irish currency is now the Euro and
all transactions occur in this currency. Few stores or services are willing
to conduct business in any other currency with the exception of U.S. dollars
on occasion. But it is adviseable not to rely on this and count on using Euros
for everything. Ireland has a Value Added Tax (V.A.T.) that is included in the
price of all goods and services. Visitors are entitled to claim this tax back
on purchases made over a certain amount, upon or after leaving the country
