New simplified British Citizenship route for Irish Citizens now in force

From 22 July 2025, eligible Irish citizens who have been resident in the UK for five years can now register as British citizens under a new, simplified route. This follows the commencement of the British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024, brought into force by the Commencement Regulations 2025 on 1 July 2025.

This long-awaited change is a welcome step towards recognising the special status of Irish nationals in the UK and streamlining their path to British citizenship.

What has changed?

The Act introduces a new registration route under Section 4AA of the British Nationality Act 1981, giving Irish citizens an entitlement to register as British citizens if they meet certain residence and status requirements. Crucially, this new route:

• Applies to adults and children;
• Does not require applicants to pass the Life in the UK test;
• Does not require proof of English language ability;
• Offers a significantly reduced fee compared to naturalisation.

When and how can applications be made?

Applications under this new route opened on 22 July 2025 and must be made online using Form B(OTA). Applicants residing in the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or a British Overseas Territory must use the paper version.

The Home Office has published detailed guidance for applicants and caseworkers, which can be accessed here:

• Guide B3: Registration as a British citizen – Irish citizens
• Caseworker guidance: Acquisition of British citizenship – Irish citizens

What are the requirements?

To qualify, the applicant must:

• Have been physically present in the UK at the start of the five-year qualifying period;
• Not have been absent from the UK for more than 450 days during those five years;
• Not have been absent for more than 90 days in the final 12 months;
• Not have been in the UK in breach of immigration laws during the qualifying period.

The Secretary of State retains discretion to waive these requirements in special circumstances. Applicants must also meet the ‘good character’ requirement, in line with other registration routes under the British Nationality Act.

What are the fees?

The reduced application fees are:

• £723 for adults
• £607 for children

This compares favourably to the current £1,605 fee for naturalisation. A fee waiver is also available for:

• Children looked after by a local authority; or
• Families who can demonstrate they cannot afford the fee.

What does this mean for Irish nationals in the UK?

Irish citizens already benefit from significant rights and protections under the Common Travel Area arrangements and are considered ‘settled’ from the point they become ordinarily resident

Clarkslegal’s immigration lawyers are here to help. For further information or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our immigration lawyers.