Naturalization requirements modified

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Irish government recently modified several naturalization requirements regarding minors and time spent outside of the country.

Key Points:

• Under the recent changes, children born in Ireland who are not eligible for citizenship at birth will now be able to apply for naturalization after three years of residency. Previously, five years of residency were required.
• Minors over age 14 (and minors under the age of 14 who have been either charged with or convicted of certain criminal offenses) applying for naturalization must satisfy the Irish government that they are of “good character.”
• Applicants for naturalization are now permitted up to 70 days spent outside of Ireland each year in order to maintain continuous residence status for naturalization purposes. In special circumstances, they may spend an additional 30 days outside of Ireland. Previously, applicants were allowed only six weeks outside of the country.

Additional Information: More information about these changes is available here.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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