Ireland Passport Applications Reach Record High Amid Brexit Uncertainty
Dublin, Ireland – The number of applications for Irish passports has reached a record high in recent months as uncertainty surrounding Brexit continues to grip the United Kingdom. The surge in demand for Irish passports comes as many British citizens seek to secure EU citizenship and retain freedom of movement within the European Union post-Brexit.
According to the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the number of applications for Irish passports from British citizens has more than doubled compared to the same period last year. The department reported that over 200,000 applications were received in the first quarter of 2021 alone, marking a significant increase from previous years.
The spike in demand for Irish passports can be largely attributed to the ongoing Brexit negotiations between the UK and the EU. With the UK officially leaving the EU in January 2020, many British citizens are looking for ways to maintain their European ties and access to the EU single market. By obtaining an Irish passport, British citizens can benefit from the rights and privileges of EU citizenship, including visa-free travel to EU countries and the ability to live and work in any EU member state.
In addition to British citizens, there has also been a noticeable increase in applications from Northern Ireland residents seeking Irish citizenship. As part of the Good Friday Agreement, residents of Northern Ireland are entitled to hold both Irish and British citizenship, enabling them to retain their EU rights and privileges post-Brexit.
The surge in passport applications has put significant pressure on the Irish Passport Office, leading to delays in processing times and longer wait times for applicants. The department has been working diligently to streamline the application process and expedite the issuance of passports to meet the increased demand.
In response to the overwhelming number of applications, the Irish government has announced plans to hire additional staff and extend operational hours at passport offices to accommodate the influx of applicants. The government has also introduced an online application system to help expedite the process and reduce wait times for applicants.
Despite the challenges posed by the surge in demand, the Irish government remains committed to ensuring that all eligible applicants receive their passports in a timely manner. Officials have urged applicants to submit their applications well in advance of their planned travel dates to avoid any potential delays.
The unprecedented increase in Irish passport applications highlights the growing interest among British citizens and Northern Ireland residents in securing EU citizenship amid the uncertainty of Brexit. With the deadline for the UK’s transition period with the EU fast approaching, many individuals are taking proactive measures to safeguard their rights and freedoms in a post-Brexit world.
As the UK and the EU continue to negotiate their future relationship, the surge in Irish passport applications serves as a stark reminder of the impact of Brexit on individuals and their desire to maintain ties with the European Union. For many British citizens and Northern Ireland residents, obtaining an Irish passport represents a lifeline to the EU and a means of preserving their European identity in the face of uncertainty.
