Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 October 2021
289. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice when an application for naturalisation can be accepted in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51952/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 can only be made after an application is received.
All applicants are required to meet minimum periods of reckonable residence and standard checks are carried out as part of the overall process to maintain its integrity. It is open to any individual to lodge an application for citizenship if and when they are in a position to meet the statutory conditions as prescribed in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended.
Applicants are required to have five years residence in the state prior to making an application, except for spouses of Irish nationals where the requirement is three years. In both cases, the final 12 months must be continuous residence in the State with up to six weeks allowed to facilitate foreign travel for business family or holiday purposes.
It is open to the person concerned to submit an application for citizenship when they meet the residency requirements detailed above and the additional criteria as set on in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 as amended. Detailed information on Irish citizenship and naturalisation, along with the relevant application forms and guidance notes, is available on the Irish Immigration website at: www.irishimmigration.ie/how-to-become-a-citizen/.
