Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) Secure Your Citizenship by Descent
Expert Legal Advice & Assistance
Foreign Birth Registration Services
What is Foreign Birth Registration?
Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) is the official process of being entered on Ireland’s Foreign Births Register, which legally confirms your entitlement to Irish citizenship by descent.
You cannot obtain an Irish passport until this registration is completed.
Who can Apply?
If you were born outside Ireland, and you are not an Irish citizen by birth, you can become an Irish citizen if:
- One of your grandparents was born on the island of Ireland; or
- Your parent was an Irish citizen at the time of your birth (whether through their own birth in Ireland or through registration on the FBR before you were born).
Adopted children of Irish citizens may also qualify if the adoption is recognised under Irish law.
If your parent became an Irish citizen via FBR, they must have been registered before your birth in order for you to qualify.
The FBR Application Process
We guide you through every step:
- Confirm Your Eligibility
Our team of legal experts will assess your ancestry and circumstances to confirm your path to citizenship.
- Gather Your Documents
You’ll need a variety of documents, including:
- Original certificates (for you, your parent, and grandparent)
- Proof of identity (e.g. passport)
- Your parent’s original FBR certificate (if applicable)
- Evidence linking each generation
Missing documents? Don’t worry—we can help you find alternative solutions.
- Apply Online
We help you complete your FBR application via the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website, including:
- Online form submission
- Witnessed signature page generation
- Instructions for having your application form witnessed and your documents certified
- Submit Your Application Pack
We submit your full application, including original certificates, certified documents and passport photos to the DFA for processing.
- Wait for Approval
FBR applications are in high demand. Processing typically takes between 9 months and 1 year for straightforward applications, so accuracy and completeness when submitting the application are essential.
- Receive Your FBR Certificate
Once approved, you’ll receive your Foreign Birth Registration Certificate – your official proof of Irish citizenship.
- Apply for Your Irish Passport
With your certificate in hand, you can apply for an Irish passport online or, depending on the country in which you are resident, through your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate.
Why Choose Us?
We are experienced in:
- Irish nationality law
- Complex family histories and missing records
- Application support from start to finish
- Avoiding delays and rejections
Whether you are claiming your Irish heritage or planning for your family’s future in Europe, our team ensures your application is strong, compliant, and efficient.
Ready to Begin?
Irish citizenship is your legacy—let us help you claim it.