In This Section

Overview
Who can apply
What “Irish associations” means
What documents you need

After you apply
Legal references

Overview

You can apply for Irish citizenship if you are of Irish descent or Irish associations.

This page explains who can apply, what documents you need, and how to submit your application.

Who can apply

You can apply if you:

  • Are 18 years or older
  • Are of good character
  • Will attend a citizenship ceremony and make the Declaration of Fidelity

What “Irish associations” means

Under Section 16(2) of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, a person is considered to have Irish associations if they are related by blood, marriage, civil partnership, or adoption to someone who:

  • Is an Irish citizen, or
  • Has died but was an Irish citizen (or entitled to be) at the time of death.

In simple terms, this means you can apply if your Irish connection is through family or partnership ties to an Irish citizen.

What documents you need

All documents must be clear, legible, and correctly certified before uploading with the online application.

Proof of identity

Upload:

  • A certified colour copy of the biometric page of your current, valid passport, certified by a solicitor, commissioner for oaths, peace commissioner, or notary public. Upload this copy along with the completed certification form under Proof of Identity.
  • A certified copy of your birth certificate, and a certified English translation if it is in another language.

Proof of Irish associations

You must upload certified copies of all documents that show your Irish family or partnership connection. These may include:

  • Birth certificates linking you to an Irish citizen (for example, your parent’s or grandparent’s)
  • Marriage or civil partnership certificates
  • Adoption certificates
  • Entries from the Foreign Births Register
  • Naturalisation certificates
  • Irish passport
  • Any other documents confirming the family relationship

Proof of residence

Provide evidence if you have lived legally in Ireland. You can show this through:

  • Passport stamps showing residence permissions, and/or
  • Letters from Immigration Service Delivery confirming permission for specific dates.

After you apply

If your application is successful, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony, where you will make the Declaration of Fidelity and receive your certificate.

A certification fee applies:

  • €950 for most applicants
  • €200 if you are a widow, widower, or surviving civil partner of an Irish citizen
  • €0 – Recognised refugee or stateless person

See the Citizenship fees page on irishimmigration.ie for full details.

If your application is refused, you will be told the reasons. There is no appeal process, but you can reapply if you later meet the criteria.

Legal references

This information is based on:

  • Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, particularly Section 16(2) (definition of Irish associations)
  • Related regulations and guidance published by the Department of Justice

See the Irish Statute Book website for the full legal text.