Car Insurance Quotes for Non-Residents in Ireland
Gallagher provides specialist car insurance quotes for expats, non-residents, and foreign nationals who are living or working in Ireland. We understand that securing reliable and affordable cover can be challenging when you are new to the country, especially if you have a foreign driving license or limited Irish driving experience. That’s why we make it simple to get the protection you need from the moment you arrive.
As one of Ireland’s largest insurance brokers, our experienced team has helped thousands of clients find great-value policies with excellent benefits. Whether you are relocating for work, returning to Ireland after time abroad, or driving here temporarily, we can guide you through the process and help match you with the most suitable cover.
Benefits of Choosing Gallagher
Complimentary breakdown assistance on first year
Easy Payment Plan
Dedicated team of qualified insurance Advisors
Complimentary In-house claims specialist
Choose from Stepback or Full Bonus Protection
Car Insurance Policy Features Available:
- Comprehensive, Third Party Fire & Theft cover.
- Driveway & roadside assistance.
- Flexible driving options.
- Protected maximum no claims bonus option.
- Step-back bonus protection.
- Full bonus protection.
- Open drive option.
- Unlimited mileage policies.
- Windscreen protection.
- Replacement vehicle in the event of a claim.
- Cover for travelling abroad.
- Driving other cars cover.
- Fire brigade charges cover.
- Cover whilst towing a caravan or trailer.
Types of Car Insurance Cover for Expats in Ireland
When you are choosing your Car Insurance policy, you can select Comprehensive or Third Party Fire and Theft Cover. Our Advisors are more than happy to advise you over the phone.
3rd Party Fire & Theft
A Third Party Fire and Theft car insurance policy covers any damage to a third party, or their property, resulting from an incident. It also provides cover for damage to your own vehicle, caused by fire or theft.
Get a QuoteComprehensive
A Comprehensive car insurance policy will cover the costs of damage to your own vehicle, if you’re involved in an incident. It also covers damage to a third party, or their property, resulting from an incident
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Expat or non-resident car insurance is designed for people who have recently moved to Ireland or who live abroad but drive an Irish-registered vehicle. This includes foreign nationals working in Ireland, international hires on relocation, returning emigrants re-establishing residency, and individuals who spend part of the year in Ireland such as contractors or holiday homeowners. Because insurers often require Irish driving experience, expat-specific insurance provides essential cover for those who are new to the country.
Yes, you can insure a car in Ireland even if you have just arrived or have not been living in the country for long. While many insurers require at least 12 months of Irish residency before quoting, Gallagher can provide cover from the moment you arrive. This is especially helpful for expats, contract workers, and non-residents who need insurance immediately when relocating or working in Ireland.
Yes. Gallagher recognises foreign driving experience and overseas No Claims Bonuses (from certain countries), allowing many expats to access more competitive premiums. Most insurers only accept Irish driving history, which can make cover more expensive for newcomers. Providing proof of your previous driving experience helps reduce costs and ensures you are credited for your safe driving abroad.
Yes, you can get car insurance in Ireland using an International Driving Permit or a foreign driving licence. International licences are typically accepted for up to 12 months after you become resident in Ireland. If your licence was issued outside the EU or EEA, you may need to exchange it for an Irish licence once residency is established. Gallagher can provide a quote during this period, even before you have exchanged your licence.
Many insurers require drivers to have lived in Ireland for at least 12 months before offering a quote. However, Gallagher can provide expat car insurance from day one – even if you have only just arrived. This is ideal for people relocating for work, study, or family reasons who need immediate vehicle cover without waiting for residency requirements to be met.
To insure a car in Ireland as a foreign national, you typically need your driving licence (International, EU, UK, or other foreign licence), any available No Claims Bonus or driving-experience documentation, an Irish address (temporary accommodation is acceptable), and details of the vehicle you want to insure. Gallagher specialises in helping expats obtain cover even if they have no Irish driving history.
Yes. Non-residents and returning expats can register and insure a car in Ireland if they have a local address for correspondence and valid driving documentation. Many people purchase or register a vehicle soon after arriving, and Gallagher can assist with insurance during this early stage, even if you have not yet built-up Irish driving experience.
Most Irish car insurance policies include the minimum legally required cover for driving in other EU or EEA countries. If you plan to drive outside these areas or travel abroad for an extended period, you may need additional documentation or enhanced cover. Gallagher can advise on what is included in your policy, so you remain fully protected when driving outside Ireland.
Yes. Gallagher offers flexible monthly payment options, allowing expats and foreign nationals to spread the cost of their car insurance. This can be especially helpful for people who have just relocated to Ireland and are managing multiple expenses during their move.