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Fact-checking Irish citizenship requirements

Hello! I am a descendant of the Conns of County Mayo - my great-grandfather was Charles Conn, and his parents emigrated from Ireland. 

I understand that England limits such claims to children or grandchildren of Irish citizens; however, I’ve read or heard several times now that it’s possible to claim Irish citizenship if you can prove you’re a direct descendant via Ancestry or another similar DNA profiling service. (In other words, having a great-great grandparent who was an Irish citizen.)

Despite my research, I’ve not been able to confirm this - too many conflicting answers.

Can someone please clarify that DNA evidence of a great-great grandparent is enough to qualify?

If correct, then how would one go about that process, and which DNA service is recommended?

I'm not certain of the parish - I only know that my family owned land by Loygh Conn and may be related by marriage to former PM (England) Canning. And I know our family there was Church of England.

Cheers,

Charlene  

 

Miss Charlie F

4 replies

Charlene,

Please see attached in relation to Irish Passports - Eligibility

You should contact the Dept. of Foreign Affairs in Dublin to have your situation clarified.

Regards,

 

McCoy

My nephew has applied for an Irish Passport. His Grandfather (my Father) was from Limerick.
He needed.............
His Grandfathers Birth certificate and his marriage Certificate.  I sent him the marriage Certificate.
Almost three years later he still hasn't been issued with the Passport.  They did say it would take some time.
 

Margot Secrette

My great-great grandparents were citizens of Ireland, which may be too far removed. 
 

Thank you for the link! I will take a look.
 

Miss Charlie F

Charlie F,

The site that McCoy has referred you to is the authoritative place to go, but my general understanding is that to be eligible, you need either a parent or grandparent born in Ireland. It does not go back to more remote generations.

Elwyn, IrelandXO Volunteer ☘IrelandXO Volunteer

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