Citizenship · Europe
Citizenship · EuropeIreland Investment-Based Naturalisation (Closed)
Ireland granted citizenship to investors in the 1980s and 1990s. The scheme was wound down from 1998 after political controversy.
Decision summary
- Minimum investment
- Not applicable — closed. The former minimum was £1 million.
- Important restrictions
- Wound down from 1998 and later abolished.
- Program status
- Closed in 1998
Overview
Ireland naturalised investors who put at least £1 million into job-creating investment. 107 investors were naturalised, with 76 family members.
The scheme was reviewed and wound down from 1998 after political controversy, and later abolished. Ireland's separate investor residence programme closed in 2023.
Investment pathways
- Investment pathway
- Closed. The former route was citizenship for at least £1 million of job-creating investment.
- Minimum investment
- Not applicable — closed. The former minimum was £1 million.
Considerations, limitations and risks
Important restrictions
Wound down from 1998 and later abolished.
- This program no longer accepts new applications; it is shown for reference only.
- Former requirements are historical and must not be relied on for a new application.
- People who obtained status under the program should take advice on their own position.
Status and authority
- Operational status
- Closed in 1998
- Official government authority
- Department of Justice, Ireland
Programme rules change; your advisor confirms every figure before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get Irish citizenship by investing?
No. The scheme ended decades ago; Ireland's later investor residence programme also closed in 2023.
Can I still apply?
No. The program is closed to new applicants. Speak to us about the open alternatives.
Discuss Ireland with an advisor.
Share your objectives in confidence. An advisor will outline the options that may be relevant to your family and circumstances.