Over 5,600 Granted Irish Citizenship Amid Upcoming Reform Plans

This week, Dublin hosts six citizenship ceremonies granting Irish nationality to approximately 5,600 individuals from more than 130 countries. The events take place on Thursday and Friday at the Dublin Conference Centre.

More than 6,000 applicants from 138 countries—and nearly all Irish counties—have been invited to attend. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan will attend Friday’s ceremony, while Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy and Minister of State for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery, and Digital Transformation Frank Feighan will participate in both Thursday’s and Friday’s events.

Justice of the High Court Paddy McMahon presides over the ceremonies. He oversees the recitation of the declaration of fidelity to the Irish nation and allegiance to the state—a formal oath that must be taken before citizenship is conferred. The declaration requires applicants to pledge fidelity to the Irish nation, allegiance to the state, adherence to its laws, and respect for its democratic values.

New citizens will receive their certificates of naturalisation by registered post in the weeks following the ceremonies.

Upcoming Citizenship Reforms

The ceremonies follow government approval—more than one week ago—of legislation prioritising a comprehensive overhaul of naturalisation procedures. Under the proposed changes, applicants seeking Irish citizenship will face extended residency periods, a mandatory language test, and a new citizenship knowledge examination.

Historical Context of Citizenship Ceremonies

Ireland introduced formal citizenship ceremonies in 2011 to mark naturalisation in a dignified and official manner. Since then, 227 ceremonies have been held, with nationals from over 180 countries receiving certificates. Approximately 236,000 people—including minors—have acquired Irish citizenship since 2011.

The previous two-day round of ceremonies took place in June in Killarney, County Kerry, where 4,797 applicants were naturalised.

O’Callaghan described the citizenship ceremony as “a significant milestone for every person who receives Irish citizenship,” noting that citizenship reflects a connection to Ireland and a commitment to participating in national life. He added that new citizens will help shape Ireland’s future as full and equal participants in its democratic life.