Post-Citizenship Grant Process

Immigration Solicitors Dublin and Cork are always well represented at citizenship ceremonies due to the number of successful citizenship applications that we have submitted on behalf of our clients. The grant of Irish citizenship is a privilege, and the importance and value it holds for our newest citizens should not be underestimated.

The conferral of Irish citizenship opens an abundance of doors. It allows individuals’ voices and opinions to be heard by enabling them to vote in referendums and presidential elections. It entitles individuals to apply for and travel on Irish passports, providing travel opportunities that may have previously been impossible for those from visa-required countries. It also grants access to greater opportunities in education, eliminating the need for international student fees, and enables individuals to access certain social supports that can significantly improve their quality of life.

For many people, the pride of holding Irish citizenship is the most significant aspect, as Ireland is their home, and they have committed themselves to the country by swearing an oath of fidelity and loyalty.

Passport Application

Once an individual is granted a Certificate of Naturalisation, they often wonder what their next steps should be. We recommend applying for an Irish passport as soon as possible, particularly for those planning to travel.

Irish citizens can apply for first-time passports and renewals online if they are resident in Ireland, Northern Ireland, Great Britain, the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. The online passport application process is the fastest way to obtain an Irish passport.

The following documents should be submitted with a first-time passport application after receiving Irish citizenship:

✔️ Original Certificate of Naturalisation
✔️ Passport from the country of origin
✔️ Original long-form birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable)
✔️ Certified copy of photographic identification
✔️ Proof of name
✔️ Proof of address
✔️ Application fee

Register Your Vote

A person’s voting rights in Ireland depend on their nationality. Irish citizens are entitled to vote in all elections and referendums. UK nationals can vote in Dáil elections, European elections, and local elections. EU nationals can vote in European and local elections, while non-EU nationals can vote in local elections only.

To vote, a person must be listed on the Register of Electors. We encourage all Irish residents to register to vote according to their entitlements. In particular, we recommend that our newest Irish citizens register on the Register of Electors to ensure their voices are heard in all future elections and referendums. Application forms for voter registration are available on www.checktheregister.ie, as well as from local authorities, post offices, and public libraries.

Residing Outside of Ireland After the Grant of Citizenship

When a person applies for Irish citizenship, they are required to confirm their intention to reside in Ireland after naturalisation. However, life circumstances may change, leading some individuals to move abroad due to employment opportunities or family reasons.

Under the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 (as amended), the Minister for Justice has the power to revoke a Certificate of Naturalisation if an individual has been ordinarily resident outside of Ireland for seven years—unless they have registered their intention to retain Irish citizenship.

To prevent any issues, naturalised Irish citizens residing outside of Ireland must complete and submit Form 5 (Form CTZ2) – Declaration of Intention to Retain Irish Citizenship.

We strongly advise all naturalised Irish citizens who are living abroad to submit this form to ensure there are no complications regarding their Irish citizenship in the future.

If you require assistance with any post-citizenship matters, Immigration Solicitors are here to help. Contact us today for expert legal guidance.