Immigration and citizenship.

Applications for residence permission, family reunification, long term residency and Irish citizenship are decided on paper, by the Department of Justice and the immigration authorities. The document you submit is the case. We prepare applications properly the first time, and we help when one has been refused.

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At a glance

NaturalisationFive years' reckonable residence in the last nine

Spouse of an Irish citizenThree years, married and living together

Long term residencyFive years on eligible work permissions

Where it is decidedDepartment of Justice, on the papers

Reckonable residence has precise rules about which permissions count and how much time abroad is allowed. We check the count before you apply, because a refused application costs time and the fee.

The process

How an application runs.

The waiting is done by the Department. The preparation is done by us, and it is where cases are won.

Establish the route

Citizenship, a stamp change, family reunification, a visa for a relative, or an appeal. We check eligibility against the current criteria before any form is filled.

Count the residence

Every day counts or it does not. We reconstruct the residence history from passport stamps, IRP cards and permission letters, and identify any gaps.

Gather the documents

Identity, residence, good character, financial and relationship evidence as required by the route. Missing or inconsistent documents are the main cause of refusal.

Prepare the application

The form, the declaration, the supporting bundle and a covering letter that explains anything unusual. Translations and certifications where needed.

Submit and follow up

Online where available. We respond to any request for further information and keep you told of processing times, which change.

Decision and next steps

A grant means a ceremony for citizenship, or a new IRP card. A refusal comes with reasons. We advise on a fresh application or a review.

Common questions

The things people ring us about first.

How long does citizenship take

The Department publishes current processing times and they vary. Getting the application right first time is the only part you control.

Can I travel while an application is pending

Yes, but time outside the State can affect the residence count for citizenship, and your existing permission has to stay valid. Ask before booking.

My application was refused

Read the reasons carefully. Some refusals can be addressed with a new application and better evidence. Some need a review or judicial review within a strict time limit. Ring us quickly.

Can my spouse or children join me

It depends on your permission. Critical skills and some other permit holders can apply for family reunification. Other routes have income and duration requirements.

Does a conviction stop me

Not automatically. Good character is assessed as a whole. Minor matters, especially old ones, need to be disclosed and explained rather than hidden.

Bring this to a first meeting

Your passport, IRP cards past and present, permission letters, P60s or employment detail summaries, and a list of any time spent outside Ireland.

Make an appointment

Before you ring

Two things you can check tonight.

Practice area