If you have Irish ancestry and were born outside of Ireland, you might be eligible to become an Irish citizen through a process called Foreign Birth Registration (FBR).
Irish citizenship can be passed by descent.
- If you were born on the island of Ireland prior to 2004 you are automatically deemed an Irish citizen.
- If you were born abroad to an Irish citizen born on the island of Ireland (i.e. one or both of your parents were born in the Republic or in the North) you are automatically considered an Irish citizen.
- If you are born abroad and are the child of an Irish citizen born outside of the island of Ireland (i.e. one of your grandparents were born on the island of Ireland) you are entitled to Irish citizenship – but you must have your citizenship registered on the Foreign Births Register in order to obtain recognition of that entitlement.
It’s a pathway that has become increasingly popular for those who cherish their Irish roots or seek the benefits of EU citizenship.
Here’s a quick guide to the FBR process for those with Irish grandparents.
Determining Eligibility
The first step in the process is understanding whether you qualify for Foreign Birth Registration.
Eligibility depends on your relationship with your Irish ancestors.
If one of your parents was an Irish citizen at the time of your birth—whether they gained citizenship by being born in Ireland, through descent, naturalization, or adoption—you are eligible.
It’s also worth noting that children adopted by an Irish citizen can apply, provided the adoption is recognized under Irish law.
Collecting the Necessary Documentation
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, the next task is gathering all the necessary documents. This can be a difficult or simple process depending on when and where your grandparents (and possibly parents) migrated.
You will need enough documentation to show the link between you and your grandparent.
There is a guide on required documentation online.
It is quite common that applicants can’t obtain everything requested.
This is not an automatic barrier – we assist clients in these situations all of the time.
Navigating the Application Process
With your documents in hand, you’ll move on to the application itself.
This begins online at the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website – where a form will be filed, and signature pages generated.
Once you have this, you will need to get it signed (and witnessed) and file this with your documentation with the Department of Foreign Affairs.
The Waiting Game
The most challenging part of the FBR process might be the waiting. Processing times can stretch from several months to over a year, largely due to the high volume of applications. It’s crucial that your application is thorough and accurate, as any mistakes or missing information can lead to further delays or even rejection.
Receiving Your Certificate and Beyond
After the long wait, you’ll be notified via email when your application has been processed. If approved, you’ll receive a Foreign Births Register certificate, a document that officially confirms your Irish citizenship.
With this certificate in hand, you’re now eligible to apply for an Irish passport. This can be done online or through your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate, allowing you to fully enjoy the rights and privileges of Irish citizenship.
Given the high demand, processing times can be long, so it’s wise to plan ahead, especially if you need your citizenship for a specific purpose like work, study, or residency in Ireland or elsewhere in the European Union.
The journey to Irish citizenship through Foreign Birth Registration is a meaningful one, allowing you to connect with your heritage while opening up new opportunities as an Irish citizen. With patience and careful preparation, you can successfully navigate this process and become a proud holder of Irish citizenship.
Final Considerations
Throughout this process, attention to detail is crucial.
Our experienced immigration lawyers and legal executives can assist you in this process and make sure that you put your best foot forward, and you don’t end up unnecessarily delayed due to easily avoidable mistakes or omissions.
Please contact info@mcgrathmullan.ie to arrange a consultation with one of our solicitors.