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Citizenship by Descent

Eligibility for Irish citizenship based on having Irish-born parents or grandparents, even if born outside Ireland.

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Overview of Irish Citizenship by Descent

Irish citizenship by descent allows individuals with Irish ancestry to claim Irish citizenship, even if they were born outside of Ireland. This is governed by the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. The process is particularly relevant for those with Irish-born parents or grandparents, and in some cases, great-grandparents.

Eligibility for Citizenship by Descent

Eligibility depends on the applicant's lineage and whether their parent(s) or grandparent(s) were Irish citizens at the time of the applicant's birth. Below are the key scenarios:

1. Parent Born in Ireland

  • If one or both of your parents were born in Ireland, you are automatically an Irish citizen, regardless of where you were born.
  • You can apply for an Irish passport directly without needing to register your birth in the Foreign Births Register.

2. Grandparent Born in Ireland

  • If one or more of your grandparents were born in Ireland, you are eligible for Irish citizenship by descent.
  • You must register your birth in the Foreign Births Register before you can apply for an Irish passport.

3. Great-Grandparent Born in Ireland

  • If your great-grandparent was born in Ireland, you may be eligible for citizenship, but only if your parent (the grandchild of the Irish-born ancestor) registered in the Foreign Births Register before your birth.
  • If your parent did not register before your birth, you are not eligible for citizenship by descent.

The Foreign Births Register

The Foreign Births Register is the official record for individuals claiming Irish citizenship through descent. Registration is mandatory for those claiming citizenship through a grandparent or great-grandparent.

Application Process for Citizenship by Descent

The process involves several steps, which are outlined below:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

You will need to provide extensive documentation to prove your lineage. The required documents include:

  1. Your Documents:

    • Original long-form birth certificate.
    • Original civil marriage certificate (if applicable).
    • Certified copy of your passport or government-issued ID.
    • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement).

  2. Parent’s Documents:

    • Original long-form birth certificate.
    • Original civil marriage certificate (if applicable).
    • Certified copy of their passport or government-issued ID.

  3. Grandparent’s Documents:

    • Original long-form birth certificate.
    • Original civil marriage certificate (if applicable).
    • Certified copy of their passport or government-issued ID (if available).
    • Death certificate (if deceased).

  4. Great-Grandparent’s Documents (if applicable):

    • Original long-form birth certificate.
    • Original civil marriage certificate (if applicable).
    • Death certificate (if deceased).

  5. Additional Documents:

    • Proof of name changes (e.g., deed poll, marriage certificate) if any discrepancies exist in the names on the documents.
    • Affidavits or sworn statements may be required if certain documents are unavailable.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

  • Applications for the Foreign Births Register are submitted online via the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website.
  • You will need to create an account, fill out the application form, and upload scanned copies of your documents.

Step 3: Submit Hard Copies

  • After completing the online application, you will receive a cover sheet with instructions on where to send your documents.
  • You must send the original documents (not photocopies) to the DFA by post. Ensure you use a secure and trackable postal service.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

  • The fee for registering in the Foreign Births Register is:
    • €278 for adults.
    • €153 for minors (under 18 years old).
  • Payment is made online during the application process.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

  • Processing times can vary significantly depending on the volume of applications. As of 2023, the average processing time is 6 to 12 months, but it may take longer in some cases.

Step 6: Receive Confirmation

  • Once your application is approved, you will receive a certificate confirming your registration in the Foreign Births Register.
  • You can then apply for an Irish passport.

Costs Involved

Here is a breakdown of the typical costs associated with the process:

  1. Application Fee:

    • €278 for adults.
    • €153 for minors.

  2. Document Procurement:

    • Costs for obtaining original birth, marriage, and death certificates vary by country but typically range from €10 to €50 per document.

  3. Translation and Certification:

    • If any documents are not in English or Irish, they must be translated and certified. Translation costs vary but can range from €20 to €100 per document.

  4. Postal Costs:

    • Secure international postage for sending documents to Ireland can cost €20 to €50, depending on your location.

  5. Passport Application (Optional):

    • Once registered, you can apply for an Irish passport. The cost is:
      • €75 for a standard 10-year adult passport.
      • €20 for postage (if applying from outside Ireland).

Key Considerations

  1. Dual Citizenship:

    • Ireland allows dual citizenship, so you do not need to renounce your current citizenship to become an Irish citizen.

  2. Document Authenticity:

    • All documents must be original and authentic. Fraudulent submissions can result in the rejection of your application and potential legal consequences.

  3. Processing Delays:

    • Due to high demand, processing times can be lengthy. Plan accordingly, especially if you need citizenship for travel or residency purposes.

  4. Legal Advice:

    • If your case is complex (e.g., missing documents, unclear lineage), consider consulting an immigration lawyer or specialist.

  5. Brexit Considerations:

    • Irish citizenship provides EU citizenship, which is particularly valuable for UK citizens post-Brexit, as it allows free movement within the EU.

  6. Residency Rights:

    • As an Irish citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and study in Ireland and the EU without restrictions.

Conclusion

Obtaining Irish citizenship by descent is a valuable opportunity for those with Irish ancestry. While the process requires careful documentation and patience, it provides significant benefits, including EU citizenship and the ability to connect with your Irish heritage. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring all documents are in order, you can successfully navigate the application process.

For further information, visit the Department of Foreign Affairs website: www.dfa.ie.