The surge in Irish passport applications from the UK post-Brexit has sparked curiosity and concern amongst experts and the general public alike. The quest for “backdoor” entry into the EU through Irish citizenship has reached new heights, with workers and pensioners leading the charge in seeking alternative routes amidst the UK’s economic uncertainty and tightening restrictions.
Applications to Britain’s Foreign Births Register (FBR), a popular citizenship avenue for those with Irish lineage, saw a notable 15% increase in 2024, reaching a record high of 23,456 applicants. This surge has surpassed previous peaks, signaling a significant shift in the post-Brexit landscape that has left many scrambling for options beyond the UK.
Immigration lawyers, such as Reza Nezam from RNL Solicitors, shed light on the driving forces behind this influx. The economic downturn in the UK, coupled with post-Brexit challenges related to travel and work, has pushed individuals to explore opportunities elsewhere. Nezam emphasizes the need for a “Plan B” amidst the uncertainties of the British political climate and economic future, prompting a notable rise in Irish citizenship applications.
The allure of the EU property market has also played a role in this phenomenon, with European countries tightening regulations for non-EU investors. Countries like Spain have introduced steep taxes on non-EU property investors, creating additional hurdles for British citizens looking to secure their foothold in the region. This shift has further fueled the surge in FBR applications, as individuals seek alternative pathways to EU residency.
Despite the cumbersome application process and lengthy wait times associated with FBR applications, the appeal of Irish citizenship remains strong for many UK residents. Úna O’Brien, a senior associate at Sinnott Solicitors, highlights the practical implications of Brexit-related travel restrictions, noting that some individuals simply seek an Irish passport to bypass non-EU queues at airports. This convenience factor, coupled with the broader uncertainties of Brexit, has contributed to the uptick in applications.
While FBR applications dominate the landscape, naturalization citizenship routes have seen a more modest increase. Only a fraction of UK citizens have pursued this avenue, opting instead for the streamlined process offered by the FBR. However, the overall trend indicates a growing interest in securing Irish citizenship among UK residents, with the majority of applications originating from British soil.
The surge in Irish passport applications is not limited to the UK alone, as North America has also witnessed a notable uptick in interest. Okeremute Okeregha, director for the Immigration Advice Service in Ireland, highlights the political motivations driving this trend. Uncertainties in the US political climate have prompted many Americans to explore citizenship options in Ireland, providing a potential safety net in times of instability.
As the quest for Irish citizenship continues to gain momentum, it underscores the broader implications of Brexit and global political shifts. The surge in applications reflects a growing desire for security, stability, and access to the broader EU landscape. Whether driven by economic concerns, political uncertainties, or the allure of EU residency, the rise in Irish passport applications speaks to a larger narrative of change and adaptation in a post-Brexit world.
