Learn if you are eligible or if you qualify for Irish Citizenship, and 4 things you should keep in mind when applying for Irish Citizenship. If you’re exploring the possibility of obtaining Irish citizenship, understanding the Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) process is crucial. You can also watch our Charting the Path to Irish Citizenship webinar recording for more information. Here’s an expanded look at key aspects of the application process and the benefits of becoming an Irish citizen.
1. Are you eligible to apply for Irish Citizenship through Foreign Birth Registration?
To qualify for Irish citizenship through Foreign Birth Registration, you need to meet one of the following criteria:
Eligibility Checklist:
- You have an Irish-born grandparent, OR
- One of your parents was an Irish citizen at the time of your birth, even though they were not born in Ireland.
If 1 or 2 applies to you, you can become an Irish Citizen through Foreign Birth Registration.
2. How the Foreign Birth Registration process works:
The FBR process is a 2-step process.
Step 1: Complete and submit an online FBR form on the Department of Foreign Affairs website and pay the FBR Fee (€278 over 18s and €153 for under 18s)
Step 2: Download the completed FBR form, get it signed and witnessed and send to the FBR Department in Dublin with the supporting documents
Note: FBR applications are currently being processed within the normal turnaround time of 8-9 months from receipt of all required supporting documents
3. Once your FBR is approved, you can apply for your Irish Passport Online
The Irish online passport process is a 2-step process:
Step 1: Complete and submit an online identity verification form on the Department of Foreign Affairs website, pay the Irish passport fee (€90 over 18s and €35 for under 18s), and upload a digital passport photo
Step 2: Download the completed identity verification form, get it signed and witnessed and send to the Passport Office in Dublin with the supporting documents.
The current processing times for online passport applications is roughly 3 months.
Irish citizens, both adults and children, can apply for first time passports and renewals online if they are residents in: Ireland, Northern Ireland, Great Britain; Europe; Australia; Canada; New Zealand or the United States.
4. Irish Citizenship Benefits:
Obtaining Irish citizenship comes with several advantages:
- Irish Passport: You gain the right to an Irish passport, which facilitates travel and offers visa-free access to many countries.
- Residence Rights: You can live and work in Ireland, enjoying the benefits of Irish residency.
- EU Citizenship: As an Irish citizen, you can live and work in any EU country, expanding your opportunities across Europe.
- Consular Assistance: You’re entitled to consular support from Irish embassies and consulates globally.
- Spousal Rights: Your spouse may also apply for residency permission to live in Ireland, enhancing your family’s mobility and security.
Contact Us for Irish Citizenship Legal Support
Navigating the process of obtaining Irish citizenship through Foreign Birth Registration involves understanding both the eligibility requirements and the detailed steps of the application process. From ensuring you meet the criteria to completing and submitting your forms correctly, preparation is key.
If you need professional legal assistance with your application or have questions about the process, McEntee Law Group is here to help. With extensive experience in citizenship and immigration matters, McEntee Law Group provides guidance and support to streamline your path to Irish citizenship. For personalized advice and professional support, contact us by emailing info@mcenteelaw.com
