Becoming an Irish Citizen through Naturalisation
Information leaflet No. 3
Following the commencement of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 2004 on 1 January 2005, some of the information in this leaflet will no longer be fully accurate. An updated leaflet is being prepared and will be posted on the website shortly.
Irish Citizenship by Naturalisation (effective as of 30th November 2002)
Changes in the law
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 2001 contains significant provisions which affect the circumstances of persons who wish to obtain Irish citizenship on foot of marriage to an Irish citizen or through naturalisation. These provisions came into operation on 30 November 2002.
- The changes which came into effect on that date mainly affect you if you –
Marry an Irish citizen on or after that date, and intend to apply for Irish citizenship on foot of this marriage, or - Think you are eligible to apply for a certificate of naturalisation after that date.
Disclaimer
The Laws governing citizenship in Ireland are set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Acts 1956 to 2001 (Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 (No. 26 of 1956) as amended by the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1986 (No. 23 of 1986), the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1994 (No. 9 of 1994) and the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 2001 (No. 15 of 2001).). The purpose of this leaflet is to provide general information on the provisions of those laws which are currently in force and on your entitlement, if any, to Irish citizenship.
This leaflet is not a legal interpretation
Contents
- What is naturalisation and who can be naturalised?
- How do I go about making an application?
- What happens to my application when I lodge it?
- Fees.
- Frequently asked questions about naturalisation.
- Useful Contacts.
