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Spouse in N. Ireland (passport application q)

6 years ago
Hi everyone,

I admit this is a very specific question, so any insight at all would be appreciated. I am an American citizen and have been living in Northern Ireland with my husband (who was born and bred in Northern Ireland) for over three years now. As he is technically a UK citizen I have been living/working here under UK Spousal Visas, and thought now that I have been in Northern Ireland for the necessary amount of time, we would save some money on my final UK visa and I would just apply for an Irish passport.

I understand that this three year rule applies to spouses of those in the North as well as the Republic, however my husband does not himself hold an Irish passport. Does this negate my right to apply for an Irish passport assuming I fit all other criteria? Also, if he were to receive his Irish passport and I apply soon after, would it matter since he wasn't always an Irish passport holder (or at least not for a substantial amount of time)?

Again I know this is incredibly specific- meaning googling has been tricky. Any insight at all would be so appreciated. Thanks everyone.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

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