Getting Started

We recommend beginning at the start of the Guide with the first lesson of Module 1: Course Overview. This lesson explains what to expect while using the Guide and introduces some of the potential benefits of Irish citizenship.

After completing both lessons in Module 1, you will reach Module 2: Irish Roots to Citizenship – Bridging the Past and Present.

See the breakdown below for a high level overview of each Module in the Guide.

When we refer to your "Irish-born grandparent" on our website and educational materials, we refer to your parent's parent, not a great-grandparent.

Your Guide to Irish Citizenship by Descent

See below for a high-level overview of each of the five Modules.

  • 1) Course Overview

    In the first module, we welcome you to Your Guide to Irish Citizenship by Descent, which is structured as a five-module self-paced online course. We explain the path ahead, while also highlighting the benefits of Irish citizenship.

  • 2) Irish Roots to Citizenship, From Past to Present

    We’ll then take a look at how the citizenship process works and explore some helpful basic facts about Ireland’s history and geography.

  • 3) U.S. Genealogy Resources

    Module 3 is designed to help you gather the information needed to locate your grandparent’s Irish vital records in Module 4. We will show you how to search online records from home to uncover small but important clues about your Irish family. We call these details your Key Family Facts.

  • 4) Locating Irish Records for Citizenship

    In Module 4, we shift our focus to Ireland. You’ll learn to use online tools to find and confirm your grandparent’s Irish birth certificate and, if needed, their Irish marriage and death certificates.

  • 5) The Foreign Birth Registration Application

    Once you’ve found the necessary information about your Irish-born grandparent and located their Irish vital records, you’ll be ready for Module 5. By the end of this module, you should have everything you need to complete and submit your application with confidence.

Still on the free preview of the Guide?

Unlock full access when you are ready

Get Full Access

Educational Notice

Irish By Descent, LLC provides educational content, not legal advice, and is not affiliated with the Government of Ireland.

We take accuracy seriously and regularly review publicly available Department of Foreign Affairs guidance to help keep this Guide current. However, official instructions may change at any time, including abruptly. If any information in this Guide differs from official instructions, always follow the Department of Foreign Affairs guidance, the online application portal, and the instructions on your application form, which is generated after completing the online application.

When we become aware of a significant change, we update the relevant lessons promptly and may notify learners using the email address on file.