Irish immigration law: INIS update on citizenship applications

The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) has confirmed that the Minister for Justice and Equality has obtained Cabinet approval for a Bill to resolve the fallout from the recent High Court decision on citizenship (Roderick Jones v Minister for Justice and Equality). It is envisaged that a draft bill will be put before the Houses of the Oireachtas in mid September when recess ends.  

INIS has also confirmed that anyone who is due to attend their citizenship ceremony in September, will still be entitled to do so. It is also the Department's view that the High Court ruling will not have a retrospective impact on anyone who has recently obtained an Irish passport.  

In parallel to all of this, we understand an appeal has also been lodged with the Court of Appeal and a date for hearing has been set.  

In the meantime, while this matter is being resolved INIS are urging people not to hold off on making their citizenship applications. Their advice is to submit a comprehensive application, including as much documentation / detail as possible and once a resolution has been passed INIS will get in contact if any further information is needed to complete the application.  

It is good to see that urgent and proactive steps are being taken to remedy the fallout from Judge Barrett's decision. We will continue to provide further updates on this matter as soon as they are available. 

For advice on immigration, please contact Bláthnaid by emailing blathnaid.evans@ogier.com 

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This client briefing has been prepared for clients and professional associates of Ogier. The information and expressions of opinion which it contains are not intended to be a comprehensive study or to provide legal advice and should not be treated as a substitute for specific advice concerning individual situations.

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