As a consequence of the recent European Referendum the population voted to leave the Europe Union. At the date of this article there remains some confusion as to whom will be entitled to indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

A number of residents of Irish descent have posed questions on how they can protect their EU citizenship. In terms of the legislation entitlement to claim an Irish passport refers to the island of Ireland (as a whole)

The withdrawal of the UK from the EU will take a considerable amount of time and negotiation before any changes will be effected – possibly over two years. During this period, UK passport holders continue to enjoy the rights of EU citizens including free movement within the EU.

There will be no changes during this period or for the foreseeable ... to the entitlement to Irish passports including for people born on the island of Ireland, and for those persons who were born outside Ireland but have Irish-born parents or grandparents.

There is no urgent need therefore for UK passport holders (whether based in the UK or elsewhere) to look into applying for an Irish passport at this time. Potential applicants should take time to establish the facts in relation to their entitlement and be aware that this is peak season for passport applications.

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