Dublin: Nationals from India were the largest group to receive Irish citizenship in 2024, according to new figures released by the European Commission.
A total of 24,059 people were granted citizenship in Ireland during the year, marking a 32% increase compared to the previous year and the highest level recorded in the past decade. Of these, 3,946 were Indian nationals, followed by applicants from Brazil (1,708), United Kingdom (1,541), Romania (1,354), and Nigeria (1,235). Significant numbers also came from the Philippines, Poland, China, Pakistan, and South Africa.
Approximately 19% of new Irish citizens—around 4,500 individuals—were from European Union member states, with Romania, Poland, and Latvia among the leading countries of origin.
Ireland Among Top EU Countries for Naturalisation Rate
Ireland ranks fifth in the EU for citizenship grants relative to population, with 4.5 citizenships awarded per 1,000 people—well above the EU average of 2.4. Countries such as Luxembourg, Sweden, Spain, and Belgium rank higher.
Stricter Eligibility Requirements Introduced
The Irish government has introduced stricter eligibility criteria, including a requirement for applicants to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency. Individuals who have relied on certain social welfare payments—such as Jobseeker’s Allowance, Supplementary Welfare Allowance, Rent Supplement, or Single Parent Family Payment—within the two years prior to applying may face difficulties.
However, supports such as Child Benefit and Working Family Payment are generally not considered barriers. Other benefits, including Jobseeker’s Benefit and maternity-related payments, are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
The Department of Justice processed approximately 31,000 applications in 2024. The introduction of online applications, digital payments, and e-vetting systems has significantly reduced processing times.
Wider European Trends
Across the EU, around 1.2 million people were granted citizenship in 2024, representing a 12% increase year-on-year. Germany (288,700), Spain (252,500), and Italy (217,400) recorded the highest numbers.
Most new citizens across Europe originated from non-EU countries, with Syria, Morocco, and Albania among the leading sources.
Sweden recorded the highest naturalisation rate in the EU, followed by Italy, Spain, and Netherlands.
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