Credit: Ascannio - stock.adobe.com

The British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024 is due to come into force on 22 July 2025 and will make it easier and cheaper for Irish citizens living in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man to apply for British citizenship.

Applicants will be subject to a more streamlined application process and will not be required to demonstrate knowledge of English language or sit the Life in the UK test.

The registration fee will be 50 per cent cheaper than for other nationalities, at £723 for adults and £607 for children.

Children looked after by a local authority will be processed free of charge, as will those who can credibly demonstrate they can’t afford the application fee. 

Seema Malhotra, the UK government’s migration and citizenship minister, said: “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 represents the unique relationship between our two countries and builds upon the Common Travel Area arrangements that have benefited citizens of both nations for decades. 

“I am pleased the route will enable eligible Irish nationals who have made their home in the UK to fully participate in British society while maintaining their Irish citizenship.”