Michael Collins
Question:1016. Deputy Michael Collins asked the Minister for Justice the way a person (details supplied) can expedite Irish citizenship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17881/23]
View answerTuesday, 18 April 2023
Questions (1016)
Written answers
The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is governed by the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. All applications for a certificate of naturalisation are processed and assessed individually in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
A determination on whether an applicant satisfies the statutory criteria for naturalisation can only be made after an application is received. There are no provisions to apply different criteria depending on the category of the applicant, or any intended purpose of naturalisation.
Applicants are required to have 5 years reckonable residence in the State prior to making an application, except for spouses of Irish nationals where the requirement is 3 years. In both cases, the final 12 months must be continuous residence in the State.
You have stated that the person has resided in the State for a period of 52 years and based on that it appears as though she may qualify. However an application for citizenship can only be assessed when an application is made and the required supporting documentation are provided and relevant checks finalised.
The median processing time for applications now currently stands at 19 months. I understand the extended wait times can be frustrating for applicants and my Department has been working hard to clear backlogs.
It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. However, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.
The Immigration services website www.irishimmigration.ie is updated on an ongoing basis in relation to immigration and citizenship matters and detailed information on Irish citizenship and the naturalisation process, along with the relevant application forms, probably a Form 8 in this instance, and guidance notes, are available on my Department's Irish Immigration website at: www.irishimmigration.ie/how-to-become-a-citizen/.