Guide to Applying for Irish Citizenship Through Naturalisation Though

Introduction

Applying for Irish citizenship through naturalisation involves meeting eligibility criteria, gathering required documents, and submitting an application to the Irish authorities. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Irish citizenship by naturalisation.

1. Check Your Eligibility for Irish Citizenship by Naturalisation Naturalisation requirements for Irish citizenship vary depending on your situation. The main eligibility categories include:

• Residency Requirement: Most applicants must have been legally resident in Ireland for at least five years out of the last nine, with one continuous year immediately before applying. This period is reduced to three years for spouses of Irish citizens.
•  Good Character: You must be of “good character,” which generally means no serious criminal record.
• Intent to Reside: You must declare your intent to live in Ireland permanently.
• Financial Stability: Though not a strict requirement, showing financial stability is often helpful in demonstrating your ability to support yourself.

2. Calculate Your Residency Permission

• Stamp Permissions: Certain residence stamps in your passport (such as Stamps 1, 3, and 4) count toward your residency calculation, while others (such as student stamps, Stamp 2) generally do not.
• Continuous Residency: You need at least one year of uninterrupted residency before your application date, plus an additional four years accumulated in the previous eight years (or two years if married to an Irish citizen).

  Tip: Use the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service’s (INIS) residency calculator tool to confirm you meet the residency requirement.

3. Gather Required Documents

To apply for naturalisation, you need to provide original documentation, including:

• Proof of Identity: Your passport and other IDs like a birth certificate.
• Proof of Residency: Examples include GNIB/Irish Residence Permit cards, utility bills, tax records, and social welfare statements.
• Certified Copies: Copies of key documents, certified by a solicitor or notary.
• Proof of Legal Residency: You will need documents proving you were legally in Ireland during your qualifying period (e.g., work permits, visas).
• Bank Statements and Proof of Financial Stability: Bank statements can demonstrate residency, and showing financial stability strengthens your application.
• Marriage Certificate: If applying as the spouse of an Irish citizen, include a marriage or civil partnership certificate.
• Proof of Spouse’s Citizenship: If relevant, provide a copy of your Irish spouse’s passport or certificate of naturalisation.

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4. Complete and Submit the Application Form

• Form 8: For most adult applicants, Form 8 is the standard naturalisation application form.
• Application Fee: There is a €175 processing fee to submit your application, payable by bank draft or postal order (credit or debit cards are not accepted).
• Attach Documents: Include all required documentation as listed in the application checklist. Missing documents may delay processing.
• Sworn Affidavit: Certain sections of the form need to be signed in front of a notary public or solicitor, who will witness your sworn statement.

  Submit to INIS: Mail the completed application form, fees, and all supporting documents to the Citizenship Division at INIS in Dublin.

5. Pay the Certification Fee (If Approved)

• Once your application is approved, you’ll need to pay a certification fee:
• €950 for most applicants.
• €200 for minors or widows/widowers of Irish citizens.

6. Attend the Citizenship Ceremony

• If approved, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony. At this event, you’ll take an oath of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the Irish state, formally granting you citizenship.
• After the ceremony, you’ll receive your certificate of naturalisation, which you can use to apply for an Irish passport.

  Tips for a Successful Application

• Double-Check Residency: Make sure you meet the residency requirement using INIS’s online tools.
• Organize Documents: Properly label and organize your documents according to the checklist provided by INIS.
• Seek Professional Advice if Needed: For complex cases, consider consulting an immigration solicitor.

  Estimated Timeline

• Processing Time: Naturalisation applications can take from 12 to 24 months or more due to processing backlogs. Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays.

  Key Resources

• Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS): The official government resource for forms, fee schedules, and updates.
• Citizens Information: Offers helpful guidance on citizenship eligibility and residency criteria.

  Following these steps carefully will help ensure your application is complete and give you the best chance for a smooth approval process.

 

Kevin Neary BCL TEP Solicitor      ( NI RoI and England/Wales) Notary Public

Office:   +442830264611

Mobile:  +447775648511

Fax : +442830267000

Email: kevinneary@dndlaw.com

Address: 1Downshire Road, Newry , County Down

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