Ireland is a nation that attracts many immigrants from all over the world. Some reasons are the ease of regularizing the situation abroad, the offer of English courses, the favorable job market and the quality of life.
According to the 2021 census, Ireland has just over 5 million inhabitants, with about 13% being foreigners.
With a growth of Brazilians in the country in the last six years, Brazil is now the fourth largest colony of foreigners in Ireland. Find out a little more about the four largest groups of foreigners on the Emerald Isle.
Poles
The largest foreign community in Ireland is Polish, with more than 120,000 people, according to the 2016 census. They began to immigrate in large numbers after Poland’s accession to the European Union in 2004.
Most moved to Ireland in search of better work and study opportunities. Poles are recognized for their professional qualifications, ease of integration into Irish society and their preservation of Polish culture and language.
They are spread across different sectors of the economy, such as civil construction, health, education and technology. In addition, shops, churches and Polish schools open.
British people
With around 103,000 people, according to the 2016 census, the British are the second largest group of foreigners in Ireland. The relationship with Ireland is marked by conflict and cooperation. Most of them go to Ireland for family, professional or personal reasons, taking advantage of the ease of movement between the two countries, as they are borders.
The adaptation of the British in Ireland is very easy, that’s why they are so present.
Lithuanians
Lithuanians number approximately 37 thousand people, according to the 2016 census. Like the Poles, they also took advantage of Lithuania’s entry into the European Union in 2004, to access benefits and facilities in Irish territory.
Lithuanians have adapted well to life in Ireland, maintaining their ties to their homeland and cultural identity. They mostly work in areas such as agriculture, industry and services.
Brazilians
As we have already explained here on the OI.ie site,the number of Brazilians grew five times in six years, which considerably increased the Brazilian community in the country. Brazilians arrived in the country mainly from the 2000s, attracted by the possibility of studying English and working legally with a Stamp 2 visa.
The Irish welcome the Brazilian people very well, characterized by their friendliness, joy and entrepreneurial spirit. They are present in several branches of the Irish economy, such as hospitality, tourism, commerce and technology.
Conclusion
We can also highlight the number of Indians and Nigerians in Ireland, which gives plurality to its culture. Therefore, Ireland is a fantastic place to experience traditions, cuisine and customs from around the world, as well as Irish culture itself, so rich and intense.
If you want to get to know the country, know that in Ireland you will find a beautiful place, by nature, and culturally rich, made up of people from the four corners of the world.
