New Simplified British Citizenship Pathway for Irish Citizens Introduced

Irish citizens living in the UK are set to benefit from a simplified and more affordable route to British citizenship, following new legislation that highlights the enduring relationship between the two nations.

Beginning 22 July 2025, Irish nationals residing across the United Kingdom including England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man will be able to apply for British citizenship under this new, easier route. The initiative stems from the British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024 and was formally welcomed by Migration and Citizenship Minister Seema Malhotra during a visit to Belfast on 3 July 2025.

This tailored route acknowledges the deep historical, cultural and familial ties between the UK and Ireland and offers a far more accessible process for Irish applicants. Key changes include:

• No requirement to demonstrate English language proficiency.
• No need to complete the Life in the UK test.
• A registration fee set at £723 for adults and £607 for children.
• Fee waivers for children under local authority care and for applicants who can provide credible evidence of financial hardship.

To qualify for this new registration route, Irish applicants must satisfy the following conditions:

• Must have resided in the UK for at least five years.
• Must not have been absent from the UK for more than 450 days over the five-year period.
• Must not have been absent for more than 90 days in the final year before applying.
• Must have complied with UK immigration laws throughout the qualifying period.
• Must be able to demonstrate good character.

This initiative represents a significant departure from the standard citizenship process, which typically requires extensive documentation and the passing of formal knowledge and language assessments. Instead, the new pathway focuses on recognising the unique status of Irish citizens in the UK under the Common Travel Area (CTA) arrangements.

Speaking on the announcement, Minister Malhotra emphasised the special bond shared between the UK and Ireland:

“The UK and Ireland enjoy a close and continued shared history and geographic links that have fostered deep cultural connections and family ties across generations. This new route reflects that enduring relationship and allows eligible Irish citizens who have made the UK their home to fully participate in British life.” (Home Office)

The pathway complements existing nationality provisions under the Good Friday Agreement, which already allow individuals born in Northern Ireland to British, Irish, or settled parents to claim both British and Irish nationality.

This legislative development marks a progressive step in acknowledging the long-standing cooperation and trust between the UK and Ireland. It provides Irish nationals, many of whom have lived, worked and raised families in the UK for decades, with a fairer and more inclusive opportunity to gain British citizenship while retaining their Irish identity.

As 22 July 2025 approaches, Irish citizens considering citizenship are encouraged to begin reviewing their residency history and supporting documentation in preparation for this more streamlined application process.

With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your immigration needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK Visa Applications. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].