Ireland is considering increasing the reckonable residence requirement for citizenship from 5 years to 8 years.

This would significantly affect people who came to Ireland legally, followed the immigration system, worked, paid taxes and built their lives here.

Many of these people have already spent years contributing to Irish society and meeting the requirements of their immigration permissions. An additional 3 years is not a minor change. It would delay their ability to apply for citizenship and create uncertainty for people who have made Ireland their home.

Ireland is facing genuine challenges around immigration, asylum, accommodation and integration. However, these are not the same as legal migrants who have entered through established immigration routes and complied with Irish law.

We believe immigration challenges should be addressed with targeted policies rather than extending the citizenship pathway for everyone.

The current 5-year pathway should be retained for eligible applicants, while Ireland continues to ensure that citizenship is based on lawful residence, good character, integration and genuine commitment to the country.