Information on Irish citizenship by descent for people born abroad to Irish-born parents, or grandparents.
Many people around the world feel a deep connection to Ireland through family, heritage, and history. If you were born outside Ireland, you may be entitled to Irish citizenship through your parent or grandparent.
Here we outline the main Irish citizenship routes for people born abroad, including citizenship by descent and the Foreign Births Register (Foreign Birth Registration or FBR).
Irish Citizenship by Descent
Citizenship by descent allows foreign born members of the Irish diaspora to claim Irish citizenship if they have an Irish-born parent or grandparent. This right can sometimes continue through further generations if each generation registers correctly.
- If you were born abroad and your parent is an Irish citizen who was born in Ireland
You are already an Irish citizen. You can apply for an Irish passport using proof of your parent’s Irish birth and documentation linking you to them.
- If you were born abroad and your parent was born abroad and was an Irish citizen at the time of your birth
You are entitled to become an Irish citizen, but you must apply for inclusion in the Foreign Births Register first. Once you are entered on into the register, you become an Irish citizen and can then apply for an Irish passport.
- If you were born abroad and your grandparent was born in Ireland
You are entitled to become an Irish citizen, but you must apply for inclusion in the Foreign Births Register first. Once you are entered on into the register, you become an Irish citizen and can then apply for an Irish passport.
Foreign Birth Registration (Foreign Births Register)
The Foreign Births Register (FBR) is an official record maintained by Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Once you are entered into the register, you become an Irish citizen from the date of registration.
Applying for FBR
FBR applications are made online, with supporting documents posted to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The address to which you post your application will depend on where you are applying from.
As part of your application you will need to provide certain supporting documents, including full birth certificates for you, your parent and grandparent as well as evidence linking the generations. A full list of documentary requirements is available with the application form.
You will also need to pay a fee (the amount varies depending on if the applicant is over or under 18).
After You Apply
It takes time for applications to be processed. Currently processing times are approximately 9 months from from receipt of supporting documents by the FBR office.
Once your application is approved, you can obtain a certificate of registration, then apply for your first Irish passport.
If you are planning on moving to Ireland after FBR, make sure you have your Irish passport before you move. Contact us or see our returning to Ireland section for more information on planning your move.
Citizenship for Future Generations
If you obtain citizenship through the Foreign Births Register, your future children can also become Irish citizens, but only if they are born after you have been registered.
If your child is born first and you register later, they are not automatically entitled to Irish citizenship, but they may be able to register themselves if they meet the criteria.
More Information and Support
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade guide for people born abroad provides information on who is an Irish citizen, registering your birth, and posting your application. They also have a list of frequently asked questions on the FBR process. You can contact the Foreign Birth Registration Customer Service Hub between 9am and 4.30pm on Monday to Friday by phone on +353 1 568 3331 or by webchat.
Many Irish emigrant support organisations around the world offer guidance for people tackling the process for the first time. See our Irish Diaspora Directory to find Irish groups near you.
Page last updated on 26 February, 2026
