Does Ireland Allow Dual Citizenship?
Yes. Ireland fully allows dual citizenship, meaning you can hold Irish citizenship alongside that of another country. You do not have to renounce your existing nationality when becoming an Irish citizen.
This flexibility makes Ireland one of the most dual-citizenship-friendly countries in Europe, enabling individuals to enjoy Irish and EU rights while maintaining their original nationality.
What Is Dual Citizenship?
Dual citizenship (also called dual nationality) means being a legal citizen of two countries at the same time.
As a dual citizen of Ireland, you can:
- Live, work, and study freely in Ireland and across the EU.
- Vote in Irish elections.
- Access Irish healthcare, education, and public services.
- Retain the rights and privileges of your other nationality (if your home country allows it).
How to Get Dual Citizenship in Ireland by Birth
You may automatically qualify for Irish citizenship at birth depending on when and where you were born.
Born in Ireland before 1 January 2005
You are automatically an Irish citizen, regardless of your parents’ nationality.
Born in Ireland on or after 1 January 2005
You are an Irish citizen if at least one parent was:
- An Irish citizen at the time of your birth, or
- A legal resident in Ireland for at least three of the four years before your birth.
If you meet these criteria, you are automatically an Irish citizen — and may hold dual nationality if your other country also allows it.
How to Get Dual Citizenship in Ireland by Descent
If you were born outside Ireland but have Irish ancestry, you may be eligible for citizenship by descent.
1. Parent Born in Ireland
If one or both of your parents were born in Ireland, you are automatically an Irish citizen — even if born abroad. You can apply directly for an Irish passport.
2. Grandparent Born in Ireland
If your grandparent was born in Ireland, you qualify for citizenship once you register your birth in the Foreign Births Register (FBR).
3. Great-Grandparent Born in Ireland
You may qualify only if your parent was registered in the Foreign Births Register before you were born.
Once registered, you become an Irish citizen and can apply for an Irish passport — officially holding dual citizenship with Ireland.
How to Get Dual Citizenship in Ireland by Naturalization
If you do not qualify by birth or descent, you can apply for Irish citizenship through naturalization.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Residency: You must have legally lived in Ireland for 5 of the last 9 years, including 1 continuous year immediately before applying.
- Good character: No serious criminal record.
- Intention to reside: You must plan to continue living in Ireland.
For spouses or civil partners of Irish citizens, the residency requirement is 3 years instead of 5.
Steps to Apply for Naturalization:
- Complete the Application: Fill in the Form 8 (or Form 9 for spouses).
- Provide Documents:
- Passport and proof of identity.
- Residence permits and proof of residence (utility bills, tax statements).
- Evidence of lawful residence (GNIB/IRP card).
- Pay the Fees:
- €175 for application.
- €950 if approved.
- Attend the Citizenship Ceremony:
Take the Oath of Fidelity to Ireland and receive your Certificate of Naturalisation.
Once complete, you can apply for an Irish passport and become a dual citizen.
How to Apply for an Irish Passport After Gaining Dual Citizenship
After obtaining Irish citizenship, you can apply for an Irish passport, which confirms your dual nationality.
Required Documents:
- Irish birth certificate or Foreign Births Register certificate.
- Certificate of naturalisation (if applicable).
- Proof of identity (existing passport or national ID).
- Two passport-sized photos.
How to Apply:
- Online: Via the Passport Online Service.
- In Person: At an Irish passport office or Irish embassy/consulate abroad.
Fees:
- Standard 10-year adult passport: €75.
Once issued, your Irish passport grants full Irish and EU citizenship rights.
Dual Citizenship for Children Born to Irish Parents Abroad
Children born outside Ireland to Irish parents are usually entitled to Irish citizenship by descent, even if they already hold another nationality.
- Both parents Irish citizens: Child is automatically an Irish citizen.
- One parent Irish citizen: The child is entitled to citizenship, though you may need to register their birth in the Foreign Births Register first.
It’s best to apply early to ensure your child’s citizenship status and dual nationality are formally recognised.
Benefits of Holding Dual Citizenship in Ireland
Holding Irish dual citizenship comes with numerous advantages:
✅ Live and Work Freely in the EU
As an Irish citizen, you also become an EU citizen, granting the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU.
✅ Visa-Free Travel
The Irish passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia.
✅ Access to Services
Enjoy Ireland’s high-quality healthcare, education, and social services.
✅ Tax Benefits
Ireland’s extensive network of tax treaties can help reduce double taxation for dual nationals.
✅ Cultural and Heritage Connection
Dual citizenship helps maintain strong cultural and family ties with Ireland.
Does Dual Citizenship Affect Your Rights in Ireland?
No. Dual citizens have the same rights and responsibilities as any other Irish citizen, including:
- The right to vote in Irish elections.
- The right to live and work in Ireland and the EU.
- Full access to public services such as healthcare and education.
However, dual nationals should be aware of:
- Tax obligations in both countries.
- Military service requirements (in countries where this applies).
Countries That Do Not Allow Dual Citizenship with Ireland
While Ireland allows dual nationality, not all countries do. Some nations require citizens to renounce their original nationality before obtaining Irish citizenship.
Examples include:
- China
- India (offers Overseas Citizenship of India status instead)
- Japan
- Singapore
Always check your home country’s laws before applying for dual citizenship.
Conclusion
Ireland’s dual citizenship policy is among the most flexible in the world, offering a simple and inclusive path for those with Irish ancestry, long-term residency, or strong ties to the country.
Whether through birth, descent, or naturalization, becoming an Irish citizen allows you to enjoy EU freedom of movement, global travel benefits, and access to world-class services — all without giving up your original nationality.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.