Going by the 16,000 decisions made in the first half of 2024 for the number of applications for Irish citizenship, it shows that more people are getting drawn by the allure of Ireland and what it has to offer.
While so many people have achieved their dreams of becoming Irish citizens through the traditional ways of acquiring citizenship, others have wondered whether it is possible to obtain Irish citizenship through buying properties.
While some people are of the opinion that it does, others believe that it is merely a factor considered for citizenship. Hence, we have written this article offering expert advice from legal professionals to help clarify confusing issues and clear any doubts.
Understanding Irish Citizenship
Simply put, Irish citizenship is a status which allows one to live and work in Ireland without restrictions. Individuals with this status can vote in Irish elections and can apply for an Irish passport.
They can also enter, leave, live and work freely in the United Kingdom. To fully become an Irish citizen, you have to take an oath of fidelity to the nation, and then receive a certificate of naturalization weeks after the ceremony.
To become an Irish citizen, the following eligibility criteria have to be met:
- Must be 18 years and above
- Must have resided in Ireland for at least 5 years out of the last 9.
- Should be born in Ireland, have Irish parents or be married to an Irish citizen.
- Must continue to reside in Ireland for at least one year immediately before applying for citizenship.
Citizenship by birth, descent, refugee status or marriage are surer ways to become an Irish citizen. However, where neither of the above methods is attainable, one can become a citizen through naturalization.
This involves meeting residency requirements and then applying for citizenship.
Although the eligibility criteria for residency have already been listed above, the applicant has to additionally show good character throughout his residency and he/she should not have any criminal record.
There have been some ideas that purchasing property in Ireland can lead to Irish citizenship. Is that really possible? Continue reading to find out.
Can Purchasing Property in Ireland Lead to Irish Citizenship in 2025?
The answer is NO.
Buying a property is not a valid pathway to Irish citizenship in 2025. Purchasing a property is not the sole guarantor of receiving Irish citizenship, there are other factors that will be considered.
While Ireland will appreciate your real estate investment, there are still some requirements you need to meet to be bestowed the status of citizenship.
Nevertheless, while owning a property does not outrightly make you a citizen, it can allow you to be a resident through investment. That is, you apply for the Immigrant Investor Program in Ireland which grants you a residence permit through substantial investment.
With the residence permit, you can live in Ireland for a certain period and then apply for naturalization. During your application, the properties you own will show that you have strong ties to Ireland.
This will contribute to fulfilling your residency requirements for naturalization. Continuously, one of the requirements for Irish citizenship is demonstrating financial stability and owning a property will be enough evidence to prove your financial prowess.
Aside from the requirements above, owning a property has the benefit of integrating you into society by giving you a sense of belonging.
Other Factors Considered for Irish Citizenship
The residency requirement for Irish citizenship demands that the applicant must have continuously resided in Irish for at least 5 years and a compulsory one year before making their application.
Aside from the one year of compulsory continuous living, the applicant can be away for 70 days during the one year. An extra 30 days can be considered at the discretion of the Minister.
Other than the above exceptions, long absences from Ireland may impact one’s future citizenship application. You can prove your residence by submitting documents such as utility bills ( electricity or gas bills), medical appointment confirmation through a letter, and a letter from the applicant’s GP showing your name, address and dates of attendance.
Although it’s not mandatory, showing proficiency in the Irish language can contribute positively to your naturalization process. It is not mandatory because over time, English has been spoken so often that it is now also considered an official language.
Hence, if the applicant can properly communicate in English, their application will also be considered. The problem arises when the applicant can neither speak English nor Irish at an acceptable level.
Another major thing that will be considered by the immigration authorities is whether the applicant has a clean criminal record. If you lack the ‘good moral character’ needed to get your citizenship approved, you will face the risks of denial or deportation proceedings.
Other things that will be considered is how well you have integrated yourself into the Irish society either by participating in social functions, volunteer work, employment and community involvement.
What Immigration Lawyers Say About Obtaining Irish Citizenship Through Property Investment
An experienced immigration lawyer knows that the process of acquiring an Irish citizen is strict and highly regulated.
While most applicants will get carried away with simply buying properties, immigration lawyers will advise you that you should focus more on showing a strong economic contribution to the country.
This shows how valuable it is to have an immigration lawyer who advises you.
Most importantly, you can hire an Irish immigration lawyer who will help you prepare documents that show the legitimate source of your investment funds
Insights from immigration lawyers on property investments and Irish citizenship.
If you consult with an immigration lawyer before you begin your application, he/she will let you know if you are ready to begin your application or whether there are any adjustments that need to be made.
They will help you through the application process, prepare you for occasions such as interviews and teach you how to properly submit your documents. In case there is any need for legal representation, rest assured, that you will be properly represented.
Conclusion
This is a gentle reminder that merely owning a property in Ireland will not make you a citizen, and that you should seek professional guidance if you want to successfully acquire citizenship status.