Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is governed by the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. All applications for a certificate of naturalisation are processed and assessed individually in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

Where a parent is unable to prove residency for 3 of the 4 years prior to the birth of the child, the only means by which the minor can then obtain Irish citizenship is through naturalisation. Section 6A of the 1956 Act provides details on the criteria for naturalisation that applies to minors.

Minors cannot apply for naturalisation in their own right. Any application must be made by their parent, legal guardian or person acting on the child's behalf "in loco parentis".

If the minor is the child of a naturalised Irish citizen, they can rely on the Form 9 application form, provided the child has 3 or more residence in the State prior to the date of application.

Detailed information on how to apply for naturalisation is available on my Department's Irish Immigration website at: www.irishimmigration.ie/how-to-become-a-citizen/

My Department has moved from paper based applications to online forms for all new adult and minor applications going forward. Online applications will make the process easier for customers, allowing them to easily fill in the relevant forms, upload the required documents, make payments and submit. The forms will provide a seamless application process and will help guide applicants through what is required for an application.