The Cost of Irish Citizenship by Descent: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering acquiring Irish citizenship by descent, you’re probably eager to understand the costs involved. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you need to budget for:

1. Application Fee: The most straightforward expense is the application fee. For adult applicants, this typically ranges from €270 to €300. The fee might differ based on whether you're applying for citizenship through the Foreign Births Register or through another route, such as through a parent who is an Irish citizen. For minors, the fee is generally lower, around €200 to €250.

2. Documentation Costs: Gathering the required documentation is crucial and can incur various costs. These may include:

• Obtaining Certified Copies: You’ll need to get certified copies of your birth certificate, your ancestor’s birth certificate, marriage certificates, and possibly more. This could cost between €10 to €30 per document.
• Translation Services: If any documents are not in English or Irish, you will need to have them translated. Professional translation services can range from €50 to €100 per document.
• Notarization Fees: Some documents might need to be notarized. Notary services typically cost between €20 to €50 per document.

3. Legal and Advisory Fees: It’s often advisable to seek legal or professional advice to ensure that your application is correctly completed. Legal fees can vary widely depending on the complexity of your case and the professional’s rates. Expect to pay between €200 to €1,000 for legal assistance.

4. Additional Expenses:

• Travel Costs: If you need to visit an Irish consulate or embassy for interviews or to submit documents, factor in travel costs. This will vary based on your location.
• Postage and Courier Fees: Sending documents to Ireland or to an embassy may require postal or courier services, which can add an additional €50 to €100.

5. Miscellaneous Costs: There may be additional minor expenses, such as:

• Photographs: Passport-style photographs are required for certain documents and might cost around €10 to €20.
• Miscellaneous Administrative Fees: Any additional small fees for processing or handling.

Overall, the cost of acquiring Irish citizenship by descent can range from approximately €800 to €2,000 or more, depending on the specific circumstances of your application and the professional services you choose to employ.