Quote Originally Posted by CaptainMorgan View Post
Ireland is a top choice for sure. I work in an industry where English is the spoken language worldwide, so that doesn't concern me so much. Other coutries I have considered are ones where the majority of people speak English to a certain degree anyway (like Netherlands)
I'm guessing you've done some reading already so apologies if I cover the things you already know but it might also be helpful to those who haven't previously reviewed the EEA route.

Here are the important steps:-

You need to decide which of the EU member states (plus the additional EEA member states and Switzerland) you want to be based in.
Can't be UK if you a UK Citizen or any other member state you may also be a citizen of.

You need to be classed as “exercising Treaty Rights” in your chosen member state which basically means being a worker or self-employed. Do be aware that “exercising Treaty Rights” does not include retirement or any interpretation of being self-sufficient.

There's actually no specific amount you need to earn and there's no specific requirement to be in full-time employment or to be under a permanent contract. But you must be able to demonstrate it's genuine work.

Whether or not you have any intentions to return to the UK or not I'd suggest keeping all records of the activities such as employment records and legal residence there.

Your spouse/partner will need to secure a suitable visa to move to the EU member state in order to live with you there.

I would highly recommend that your spouse/partner follows local procedures to secure the varies levels of residence.
Although some folks suggest that isn't necessary I think it's the best way to go. In many ways it depends if and when you think about returning to the UK.

If Ireland is your choice she'll need to apply a short stay visa for Ireland.
Take a look here for more info on that
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages...iss%20citizens