The easiest way to get an Irish passport lies in an individual’s ability to show proof of citizenship. Holders of Irish passports enjoy a lot of benefits.
Applying for an Irish passport can be complex due to the tedious processes one will undergo. However, we will guide you on how to make the application easy in this article.
Irish Passport Overview
The Henley Passport Index ranks the Irish passport as the 6th most powerful passport in the world. This means that Irish citizens would be able to travel to 187 countries visa-free. In addition, holders of Irish passports enjoy free travel within the EU member states.
Due to the high value of the Irish passport, obtaining it becomes relatively difficult. One has to meet a lot of requirements to be eligible for an Irish Passport. It is important to know that you must first apply for Irish Citizenship, which is the first step before thinking of applying for an Irish passport.
Requirements for Irish Passport
Getting an Irish passport depends on one capability to meet the requirements. Mostly, you will need very strong supporting documents in addition to proof of identity, nationality, and age.
The documents required of you include:
- Official photo identification (e.g. driver’s license, passport, or your National ID if foreign)
- Proof of Irish citizenship
- 4 passport-sized photographs
- Notarized consent from parents or guardians for applicants younger than 18
- Bank statements, utility bills, etc.
You will be required to submit all documents with your application. Note that only original documents are accepted.
Irish Passport Cost
The cost of Irish passports depends on the type you applying for and the mode of application submission.
Below are the associated fees for Irish passports:
- €75 via Passport online. There’s an additional €5 postage fee for applicants residing outside Ireland
- €80 via Passport Express + €9.50 postage fee
- €95 for applicants who apply in person at a Passport Office counter service
Irish Passport Application Procedure
There are many methods of applying for an Irish passport. One way is to use the Passport Online service. You can also submit your application via Postal Express at the post office, or fill out the paper form at the Passport Office counter service.
It is always faster, easier, cheaper, and more convenient if you apply online. We don’t advise you to apply through the postal office. However, if you need a speedy application process and a shorter wait time, you can apply via Passport Express.
The passport office counter option works best for applicants who seek urgent renewal or replacements for lost or damaged passports. As a result, this method is not advisable for first-time applicants. In addition, you will spend more when you use the counter mode of the application.
Irish Passports Waiting Times
It takes time for the Irish passport to be fully processed. The best way to ensure you get it at the right time is to apply at least six weeks before your intended date of travel. You can always your application’s current waiting time on the Department of Foreign Affairs website.
For passport renewals, the waiting time is usually 10 working days from the day of submission. However, this may take about 6 to 8 weeks for renewals that are complex such as children’s passports.
Conclusion
As mentioned from the onset, your proof of Irish citizenship is what determines how easy and fast you can get an Irish passport. Furthermore, you will also need someone eligible to stand as your witness. The role of the witness is to verify your identity.
I hope this article has been helpful to you. Enjoy your travels and check out other related articles on visa application processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for an Irish passport if im British?
No, you cannot apply for an Irish passport if you are British, and that’s the straight answer. For you to apply for an Irish passport, you must be an Irish citizen. If you are born in Ireland before 2005 or born to a parent that was born in Ireland before the said year, you are automatically an Irish citizen.
How do I get an Irish passport by descent?
You are an Irish citizen by descent if your parents are Irish citizens at the time of your birth. Also, you can apply for Irish citizenship through the Foreign Birth Register.
How long is it currently taking to get an Irish passport?
Currently, the turnaround time for an Irish passport is 8 weeks. This is however not a guarantee and hence you are advised not to book flights when your passport is still being processed.
Is it hard to get Irish passport?
The hardest part of getting an Irish passport is proof of Irish citizenship. Other requirements entail that you must have lived in Ireland for a period of 5 to 9 years.
