Proof of address in Ireland when you rent a room

The problem

When you rent a room, the electricity and broadband bills are usually in someone else's name. But a PPS number, a bank account and immigration registration all ask for proof of address.

For a PPS number

Citizens Information lists, among others: a household bill, an official letter, a bank statement, a lease or tenancy agreement, or official confirmation of your address from a third party such as the accommodation or property owner. It must show your name and address and be no more than three months old.

So if you rent a room or live in digs, ask your landlord or host for a short signed letter confirming that you live there, with the address and date. A written tenancy or licence agreement also works.

If you stay with friends or family, you can use their bill with a note from the person whose name is on it.

For a bank account

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission lists a utility bill, a letter from a financial provider, a Government letter, an insurance document or a Tax Credit Certificate, less than six months old and matching your ID.

Banks set their own lists: ask your branch what it accepts. Some accept a letter from your college confirming your place.

For immigration registration (IRP)

Proof of address is required when you first register your immigration permission. Irish Immigration gives a utility bill or tenancy agreement dated in the last three months as examples. Check the current list on irishimmigration.ie before your appointment.

A tip

Once you have one document with your name and address (a bank statement, or a letter from Revenue or the Department of Social Protection), it becomes much easier to get the next one.

Common questions

What can I use as proof of address if I rent a room?

For a PPS number: a signed letter from your landlord or host, a tenancy or licence agreement, or a bank statement, no older than three months.

Can my landlord write a letter as proof of address?

For a PPS number, yes: Citizens Information lists confirmation from the accommodation or property owner. Banks and immigration have their own lists, so ask them.