As European nations begin to redefine their immigration policies in the face of changing demographics, the avenues for adult citizenship continue to narrow. Although Ireland recognizes adoption as an avenue for citizenship, Ireland's laws have a narrow adoption definition that excludes adults.
Adoption Act of 2010
The Adoption Act is Ireland's statute governing the rules and procedures for legal adoptions. Under the statute, a child over the age of 7 may not be the subject of an adoption order unless the Adoption Authority finds that circumstances make the adoption desirable.
1956 Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act
Under the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, all legally adopted children of Irish nationals are conferred Irish citizenship. Children adopted from foreign countries must first be cleared by the Irish Immigration and Nationalization Service.
Citizenship for Adults
Although the previous two laws effectively exclude adults from obtaining citizenship through adoption, Ireland has several different routes that adults may take. Aside from the route of residency and naturalization, Ireland recognizes ancestry as a viable route to obtain citizenship. If an adult's great-grandparents were born in Ireland, then that adult may still be able to obtain citizenship, though other requirements must first be met.
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