The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, through its Consular offices in Dublin and Cork and through its network of missions abroad, may issue a civil letter of freedom to Irish citizens getting married abroad. It is important to note that this is not an Irish requirement, but is based on the requirements of the country where the marriage will take place. Each country has its own requirements governing marriage and I would advise Irish citizens who plan to marry abroad to contact the civil registration office in the country of marriage to ensure that they are fully informed of all requirements.
In this instance I would advise the citizen involved to lodge an application for a civil letter of freedom to my Department. Applications should be submitted at least four months ahead of the date of marriage. The application process consists of an online questionnaire, which can be found on the Department’s website, and the submission of certain documentation as required. For those living abroad, applications can be submitted to the nearest Embassy or Consular office to where the citizen is residing. For citizens living in Ireland applications should be submitted by registered post to our offices in Cork or Dublin at the contact details listed. My officials will be happy to answer any further questions and can be contacted in Cork or in Dublin as outlined below.
Consular Services,
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade,
1A South Mall,
Cork
Tel: 021 494 4763 (10am – 1pm)
Consular Section,
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade,
Marriages Abroad Section,
80. St. Stephen's Green,
Dublin D02 VY53
Tel: 01 408 2523 (10am – 12pm)