How to Apply for Irish Citizenship
Irish traditions, such as St. Patrick's Day and Celtic music, attract many to Ireland, but it may be the high standard of living that makes them want to stay. As with all countries, there are requirements that applicants must fulfill in order to obtain citizenship. However, unlike most, the final decision to grant or deny citizenship is at the discretion of one official, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Ensure that you have permission to reside in Ireland. Bring your registration up to date with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. The Bureau renews registration at regular intervals, ensuring that each registrant is adhering to the conditions of their registration.
Meet eligibility requirements. Applicants must be 18 or older, of sound mind and good character. You must declare fidelity to the nation and fully intend to continue your residence in the State after you become a citizen.
Meet residency requirements. Applicants must have lived in Ireland continuously for at least a year before filing their application and at least four years during the last eight years.
Meet eligibility requirements if your application is based on your marriage to an Irish citizen. Applicants in this category can be 18 or younger, married to their spouse for a period of three years or more and living together as husband and wife. You must be of good character and sound mind, declare fidelity and loyalty to the State and intend to continue your residency after your naturalization.
Meet residency requirements if you are filing for citizenship through your spouse. You must have lived continuously in Ireland for a year before filing your application and you must have lived in Ireland continuously for at least two years during the last four years.
Obtain the application form. The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform offers application forms for adults, minors and minors of Irish descent (see Resources below).
Submit supporting documents with your application. Some of the documents you may need include an identifying document, such as your passport, marriage certificate, evidence of your residency status, financial documents and evidence of your spouse’s status.
Receive a reference number for your case and wait for notification of a decision from the Minister. If your application is approved, you will also receive information on a swearing ceremony and payment of fees for your application.
Visit the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to learn more about how to become an Irish citizen (see Resources below).
Tip:
The Republic of Ireland waives the application fee for applicants who are stateless or refugees.
Warning:
Regardless of your qualifications, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform reserves the right to deny or approve applications for Irish citizenship at his discretion.
Resources
Obtain more information from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform
Download an application form from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform
New Teach Me Show Me's |
|
|
|
|
Most Popular Teach Me Show Me's |
|