All countries

How Long Does Citizenship by Descent Take? Country-by-Country Processing Times

CountryProcessOfficial estimate
Flag of CanadaCanadaCitizenship certificate (proof of citizenship)About 34 months (IRCC update Oct 9, 2026) Source: canada.ca
Flag of IrelandIrelandForeign Birth Registration12 months from receipt of supporting documents (government answer, Oct 1, 2026) Source: Oireachtas
Flag of ItalyItalyRecognition by descentVaries by consulate. Not yet verified.
Flag of GermanyGermanyCitizenship determinationNot yet verified.
Flag of PolandPolandConfirmation of citizenshipNot yet verified.

In Canada, about 130,700 people were waiting for proof of citizenship at the October 9, 2026 update. Source: canada.ca Ireland's own FAQ page still says about 9 months, while the October 2026 parliamentary answer gives 12 months. Source: dfa.ie

Ireland says applications needing more documents take longer. Source: Oireachtas

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