Ireland
EU gateway with citizenship by descent
Ireland offers one of the most accessible citizenship-by-descent programs in the EU. English-speaking, tech hub status, and strong ties to the US make it a popular destination for Americans with Irish ancestry.
Our framework evaluates Ireland across 6 strategic pillars. Each pillar answers a key question that matters when planning your relocation strategy.
Profile Weight Distribution
How we score: Six strategic pillars with weighted sub-factors. Confidence indicators show data quality (●●● = verified, ●●○ = researched, ●○○ = editorial). Read our full methodology
Profile weighting: Different expat profiles prioritize different pillars. Select your profile above to see personalized rankings.
Something off? These scores improve with feedback. Help us get it right
Immigration Overview
Ireland's Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) allows those with Irish-born grandparents—or parents born abroad to Irish citizens—to claim Irish citizenship. This is one of the most straightforward EU citizenship paths available.
Beyond ancestry, Ireland offers critical skills employment visas for tech workers, startup founder visas, and working holiday agreements with several countries. Dublin's status as a European tech hub means plenty of opportunities for skilled workers.
Visa & Residency Pathways
Foreign Birth Registration (FBR)
Citizenship by descent for those with Irish ancestry
- Irish-born grandparent qualifies
- Parent registered before your birth extends eligibility
- No residency requirement
- Full EU citizenship once granted
Critical Skills Permit
For highly skilled workers in shortage occupations
- €64,000+ salary (or €32,000 for specific roles)
- Job offer from Irish employer required
- 2-year permit, then spouse can work
- Path to Stamp 4 (permanent residence)
Startup Entrepreneur Programme
For innovative startup founders
- €50,000 funding required
- Novel business with export potential
- High-growth, scalable venture
- 3-year initial residence
Irish Naturalization
After 5 years of residence
- 5 years residence (last year continuous)
- Good character requirement
- No language test required
- Dual citizenship allowed
Why Ireland?
English Speaking
Native English-speaking country. No language barrier for Americans, Brits, Canadians.
Tech Hub
European headquarters for Google, Meta, Apple, Microsoft. Strong job market for tech workers.
EU Citizenship
Irish passport = freedom to live and work in 27 EU countries. One of the strongest passports globally.
FBR Citizenship Path
Irish grandparent? You may already be eligible for citizenship. One of the best ancestry programs.
US-Ireland Ties
Strong cultural and business connections. Largest US expat population in EU. Familiar culture.
Travel Connections
Direct flights to US East Coast (5-7 hours). Easy access to all of Europe.
General Requirements
Requirements vary by pathway:
Foreign Birth Registration (FBR):
- Proof of Irish ancestry (birth, marriage, death certificates)
- Your birth certificate
- Parent's birth certificate
- Grandparent's Irish birth certificate
- All documents must be official long-form versions
- Application fee: €278
Work Permits (Critical Skills):
- Valid passport
- Job offer from Irish employer
- Qualification documents (degree certificates)
- Clean criminal record
- Private health insurance (until eligible for public system)
Processing times vary: FBR currently takes 18-24 months. Work permits typically 8-12 weeks.
Ready to explore Ireland?
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