UK Introduces Citizenship Pathway for Irish Nationals

The UK government has established a special citizenship route for Irish nationals, allowing those who have lived in the UK for a minimum of five years to apply for British citizenship. The UK Home Office outlines specific eligibility requirements, including physical presence in the UK on the date five years prior to the application, adherence to UK laws, and no breaches of immigration rules.

Applicants must not have been absent from the UK for more than 450 days during the five-year period, with a maximum of 90 days in the year preceding the application. Certain exemptions apply, such as time spent in the UK as diplomats or armed forces personnel.

The application fees are set at £853 (N1,500,732) for adults, which includes a £723 (N1,271,948) application fee and a £130 (N228,704) citizenship ceremony fee. For children, the fee is £607 (N1,067,873) per child, with provisions for fee waivers for those unable to pay.

Special circumstances affecting residency may also be considered.