Irish Citizenship by Naturalization: Complete Guide 2025
Become an Irish citizen after 5 years of continuous residence. Get EU citizenship with one of the world's strongest passports while keeping your original nationality.
🇮🇪 2023 Law Improvements
Ireland significantly relaxed residence requirements in 2023, replacing the controversial "six-week rule" with much more flexible absence allowances for the final year.
What is Irish Citizenship by Naturalization?
Irish citizenship by naturalization is the process by which foreign nationals become Irish citizens after fulfilling residence, character, and connection requirements. Ireland offers one of the most accessible paths to EU citizenship, particularly attractive for English speakers who don't need to pass language tests.
Key Benefits of Irish Citizenship
- EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
- 187 Visa-Free Destinations: One of the world's strongest passports
- English-Speaking: No language barrier for most applicants
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Keep your original nationality
- Quality of Life: Excellent healthcare, education, and safety
Irish Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown
Detailed Cost Breakdown:
Long Stay Visa/Work Permit
RequiredInitial visa to establish legal residence in Ireland
€300-1000 depending on visa type. Work permits, family reunification, or student visas.
Residence Permit Renewals
RequiredAnnual renewals of residence permits during 5-year period
€300 per renewal (IRP card). Typically need 4-5 renewals over 5 years.
English Language Test
OptionalProof of English proficiency if required
IELTS or equivalent if not native English speaker or educated in English.
Naturalization Application Fee
RequiredInitial non-refundable application processing fee
€175 application fee paid when submitting. Non-refundable even if refused.
Certification Fee (if successful)
RequiredAdditional fee paid only if application is approved
€950 certification fee for adults, €200 for minors. Paid only after approval.
Document Collection and Translation
RequiredBirth certificates, criminal records, apostilles, translations
All foreign documents need apostille. Translations required for non-English documents.
Criminal Background Checks
RequiredPolice clearances from all countries lived in for 6+ months since age 16
Required from birth country and all countries of residence.
Legal Consultation
OptionalImmigration lawyer assistance for complex cases
Recommended for complex residency situations or previous visa issues.
Irish Passport Application
OptionalIrish passport after citizenship approval
€95 for adult passport, valid for 10 years.
Important Cost Considerations:
- Must have 5 years total residence out of the last 9 years (1 year continuous + 4 years in previous 8)
- 2023 law change: Can now be absent up to 70 days in the year before application (plus 30 days exceptional)
- Must demonstrate 'good character' - no serious criminal convictions
- Must have intention to continue living in Ireland after naturalization
- Processing times currently 6-12 months after complete application submitted
- Ireland allows dual citizenship - no need to renounce original nationality
- Total fees: €175 application + €950 certification (only if successful) = €1,125 for adults
💡 Money-Saving Tips:
- Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
- Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
- Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
Irish Naturalization Requirements
You Qualify If:
- You have lived in Ireland for 5 years total out of the last 9 years
- Including 1 year continuous residence immediately before your application
- You have not been absent from Ireland for more than 70 days in the final year (plus 30 exceptional days if needed)
- You are of good character (no serious criminal convictions)
- You intend to continue living in Ireland after naturalization
- You have a genuine connection to Ireland (employment, family, community involvement)
Potential Barriers:
- Absences exceeding 70 days + 30 exceptional days in the final year before application
- Not meeting the 5 years total residence out of 9 years requirement
- Criminal convictions or charges that affect "good character"
- Inability to demonstrate genuine connection to Ireland
- No intention to remain in Ireland after citizenship
Irish Naturalization Process: Step-by-Step
Establish Legal Residence
Obtain work permit, family visa, or other long-term visa to live legally in Ireland
💡 Tip: Must maintain continuous legal residence for 5 years before applying
Maintain Continuous Residence
Live in Ireland for 5 continuous years, renewing permits as needed
💡 Tip: Cannot be absent for more than 6 weeks per year
Gather Required Documents
Collect all certificates, criminal checks, and proof of residence
💡 Tip: Start collecting documents 6 months before eligibility
Submit Naturalization Application
Apply online through ISD (Immigration Service Delivery)
💡 Tip: Current processing times around 6-12 months
Attend Citizenship Ceremony
Take oath of fidelity and receive certificate of naturalization
💡 Tip: Final step - you become Irish citizen after taking oath
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Irish?
Yes! Ireland allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when you become an Irish citizen. This is one of the major advantages of Irish naturalization.
Do I need to take an English language test?
No language test is required if you're a native English speaker or were educated in English. For non-English speakers, you may need to demonstrate English proficiency, but this is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
How much time can I spend outside Ireland during the residence period?
For the final year before application, you can be absent up to 70 days, plus an additional 30 days for exceptional circumstances (health, family, work, study). For the other 4 years of residence needed, the rules are more flexible and focus on maintaining your legal residence status.
What counts as 'good character' for Irish citizenship?
Good character means no serious criminal convictions, compliance with Irish tax and immigration laws, and generally being a law-abiding resident. Minor traffic violations typically don't affect this requirement.
How long does the Irish naturalization process take?
Current processing times are 6-12 months after submitting your application. However, this can vary based on the complexity of your case and current application volumes.
What documents do I need for Irish naturalization?
Key documents include your passport, birth certificate, proof of 5 years continuous residence, employment records, criminal background checks, and evidence of your connection to Ireland.
Ireland vs Other EU Naturalization Options
| Country | Residence Req. | Language Test | Application Fee | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇮🇪 Ireland | 5 years | None (English speakers) | €950 | English-speaking EU country |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | 5-8 years | B1 German | €255 | Largest EU economy |
| 🇵🇹 Portugal | 5 years | A2 Portuguese | €250 | Lower cost, Golden Visa option |
| 🇫🇷 France | 5 years | B1 French + civic test | €55 | Cultural prestige |
Ready to Start Your Irish Citizenship Journey?
Get EU citizenship in English-speaking Ireland while keeping your original nationality