The British Nationality (Irish Citizens) Act 2024 has reshaped how Irish citizens in the UK can become British. In effect from 22 July 2025, it creates a quicker, cheaper, and less burdensome registration process for those who have lived in the UK for at least five years.
What the Law Does
This Act adds a new section—4AA—to the British Nationality Act 1981, giving eligible Irish citizens a streamlined route to citizenship without the hurdles faced by most applicants. The push for this change began back in 2005 and was finally passed in May 2024.
Who Can Apply
The process covers both adults and children who:
- Have lived in the UK for five continuous years, and
- Were physically present in the UK at the start of that five-year period.
Absence limits:
- No more than 450 days outside the UK in those five years.
- No more than 90 days outside the UK in the 12 months before applying.
Applicants must also:
- Have complied with immigration laws during those five years.
- Meet the standard “good character” test in Section 41A(1) BNA.
Key Benefits
- No Life in the UK test.
- No English language proof required (in line with current exemptions for Irish citizens).
- Maintains the existing Common Travel Area rights, where Irish citizens are treated as “settled” once ordinarily resident in the UK.
Why It Matters
For Irish citizens, this is a major step forward—lower costs, fewer formalities, and a faster path to British citizenship without losing the special UK–Ireland relationship. If you need tailored advice or support with your application, Kash Legal Services are here to guide you through the process and ensure your application meets all requirements.