By Birth or Descent
If you were born in Ireland or have Irish parents or grandparents, you may be eligible for citizenship.
Begin Your Journey to Irish Citizenship
Overview & Complete Guide
Discover your pathway to becoming an Irish citizen. We provide comprehensive information on eligibility, requirements, and the application process.
Pathways to Irish Citizenship
There are several ways to become an Irish citizen. Find the pathway that applies to your situation.
By Marriage or Civil Partnership
Spouses or civil partners of Irish citizens may apply after 3 years of marriage and reckonable residence.
By Naturalisation
Adults who have legally resided in Ireland for 5 years may apply for naturalisation.
Foreign Birth Registration
Register your foreign birth in the Foreign Births Register if you have an Irish parent or grandparent.
The Application Process
Follow these steps to complete your Irish citizenship application successfully
1
Verify Eligibility
Check if you meet the criteria for your chosen pathway to citizenship.
2
Gather Documents
Collect required documents including birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of residence.
3
Submit Application
Complete and submit your application with all supporting documents and fees.
4
Await Decision
Your application will be reviewed and a decision issued once processing is complete.
Processing Times
Processing times are approximate and may very based on application volume and individual circumstances
Naturalisation
6–12 months
Foreign Birth Registration
12 months
Marriage / Partnership
6–9 months
General Requirements
To be eligible for Irish citizenship by naturalisation, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age (or be a minor born in Ireland)
- Be of good character with no serious criminal convictions
- Have legally resided in Ireland for the required period
- Intend to continue residing in Ireland after naturalisation
- Have made a declaration of fidelity and loyalty to the State
Required Documents
- • Valid passport or travel document
- • Birth certificate (certified translation if required)
- • Proof of residence (utility bills, leases)
- • Police clearance certificates
- • Passport-sized photographs
Residence Requirements
- • 1 year continuous residence immediately before applying
- • 4 years residence in the previous 8 years
- • Total of 5 years residence within the last 9 years
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hold Dual Citizenship?
Yes, Ireland allows dual citizenship. You do not have to renounce your current citizenship when becoming an Irish citizen.
How much does the application cost?
The naturalisation application fee is €175 for adults. If your application is successful, there is an additional certificate fee of €950. Foreign birth registration costs €278.
Can I apply if I have a criminal record?
Minor offenses may not prevent you from applying, but serious criminal convictions will likely affect your eligibility. Each case is assessed individually based on the nature and timing of offenses.
Can my children become Irish citizens?
Yes, children born in Ireland to parents with legal residence may be entitled to citizenship. Children of Irish citizens are also entitled to citizenship. Minor children can be included in naturalisation applications in some cases.
What happens after I submit my application?
Your application will be reviewed by the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD). You may be contacted for additional documentation or invited to an interview. Processing times vary, but you will be notified of the decision in writing.
Start Your Irish Citizenship Journey Today
Don't wait for the next policy shift. Secure your future as a citizen of Ireland and the EU.
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