1. Can You Get an Irish Passport if Your Husband Has One?
Simply being married to an Irish passport holder does not automatically grant you Irish citizenship or an Irish passport. However, it does make you eligible to apply for Irish citizenship through marriage or civil partnership. Once you become an Irish citizen, you can then apply for an Irish passport.
2. Eligibility Requirements for Irish Citizenship by Marriage
To be eligible for Irish citizenship through marriage, you must meet specific requirements, including:
- Minimum Residence: You must have legally resided in Ireland for at least three years out of the last five years and must have lived in Ireland continuously for the 12 months immediately before your application.
- Marital or Civil Partnership Duration: You must have been married to or in a civil partnership with your Irish spouse or partner for at least three years.
- Intention to Reside: You must demonstrate an intention to continue residing in Ireland.
- Good Character: Applicants must have a record of good character, demonstrated by clear background checks.
These requirements show that you have an established relationship with Ireland and an ongoing commitment to live there.
3. How to Apply for Irish Citizenship Through Marriage
If you meet the requirements, you can apply for citizenship through naturalisation. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documentation, including marriage certificates, proof of residence in Ireland, proof of good character (e.g., police clearance certificates), and your spouse’s Irish passport.
- Complete Form 8 (Naturalisation Application): This form is specifically for those applying for Irish citizenship through marriage or civil partnership.
- Submit Application and Pay Fees: Submit your application to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) and pay the processing fee.
- Wait for Processing: Processing times for Irish citizenship applications can vary but typically take 18-24 months.
- Attend a Citizenship Ceremony: If approved, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony to formally become an Irish citizen.
After obtaining Irish citizenship, you are eligible to apply for an Irish passport.
4. Documents Required for Irish Citizenship by Marriage
Common documents for the naturalisation application include:
- Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate
- Proof of Residence: Utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements.
- Spouse’s Irish Passport: To verify their Irish citizenship status.
- Proof of Good Character: Police clearance certificates.
- Proof of Financial Stability: Some evidence of financial support may be requested.
Submitting complete and accurate documentation is essential for a successful application.
5. Applying for an Irish Passport After Gaining Citizenship
Once you have received Irish citizenship, you can apply for an Irish passport:
- Complete Passport Application Form: Use APS1 if applying from Ireland or APS2 if applying from outside Ireland.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Include your new Irish naturalisation certificate, passport-sized photos, and proof of identity.
- Pay the Passport Fee: Fees vary depending on the passport type and application location.
- Submit the Application: Submit your application either online or in person at a passport office or embassy.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does marrying an Irish citizen automatically make me an Irish citizen?
A: No, marriage alone does not grant citizenship. You must apply for citizenship through naturalisation.
Q2: How long do I need to live in Ireland before applying for citizenship by marriage?
A: You need three years of residency in Ireland within the past five years, including the 12 months immediately before application.
Q3: Can I apply for an Irish passport if my spouse is Irish but I don’t live in Ireland?
A: No, residence in Ireland is a requirement for citizenship by marriage. Living abroad disqualifies you from applying under this route.
Q4: Is attending a citizenship ceremony mandatory?
A: Yes, attending the citizenship ceremony is required to officially receive Irish citizenship.
Q5: How long does it take to get an Irish passport after obtaining citizenship?
A: Passport applications typically take 6-8 weeks to process, though expedited options are available.
Q6: Can I pass on Irish citizenship to my children?
A: Yes, as an Irish citizen, any children born to you after naturalisation may also be eligible for Irish citizenship.