Located in Western Europe in a strategic position on major air and sea routes between North America and Northern Europe, Ireland is poetically named the ‘Emerald Isle’ for its lush landscapes and rich vegetation. A member of the EU since 1973, Ireland has one of Europe’s fastest growing economies. The country ranks among the top five most developed nations on the UN’s Human Development Index, and its economy holds 3rd position on the 2023 Index of Economic Freedom. The Ireland Residence by Investment Program was introduced by the Irish government in 2012 to encourage foreign direct investment into the country.