Naturalisation – Spouse / Civil Partner of an Irish
Citizen

Spouses and civil partners of Irish citizens can become Irish citizens after a shorter period than other residents. This isn't automatic citizenship through marriage: it's a naturalisation application, decided by the Minister for Justice, with conditions adjusted for married couples and civil partners. The applicant must have been married to, or in a civil partnership with, the Irish citizen for at least 3 years, and the couple must be living together. The applicant needs 3 years' reckonable residence in Ireland in the 5 years before applying, including 1 year of continuous residence immediately before the application, with no more than 70 days abroad in that year (up to 30 more in exceptional circumstances). The usual conditions also apply: the applicant must be 18 or over, of good character and intend to keep living in Ireland. Time on Stamp 4 as the spouse of an Irish citizen counts as reckonable residence, and the Irish spouse can be a citizen by birth, descent or naturalisation. The fees are the standard €175 to apply and €950 for the certificate if approved. A draft 2026 bill proposes raising both the marriage and residence periods to 5 years. It isn't law, but couples who qualify now may prefer not to wait. Applicants who meet the standard 5-year route can use that instead.

Yes, if you meet it. We'll tell you which route is better for you.

You must be living together as a married couple or civil partners. Tell us about any periods apart and we'll assess them.

Yes. Stamp 4 time counts as reckonable residence.

Tell us straight away. The spousal route depends on your relationship, so another route may be needed.

No. Your spouse can be Irish by birth, descent or naturalisation.