Unmarried couples

Rights of unmarried couples
The non-marital family in Ireland is not recognised by law. This means it does not possess the same rights and obligations as the marital family.

Property rights of unmarried couples
Property rights of unmarried couples in Ireland, relating to buying a home, private rented accommodation, local authority housing, and the Family Home Protection Act.

Inheritance rights of unmarried couples
Unmarried couples in Ireland have no automatic right of inheritance on the death of either partner. Important information on your rights and making provisions for dependants.

Life insurance, pensions and marital status in Ireland
Your marital status in Ireland may make some differences to your life insurance or pension entitlements. Find out about these differences, unclaimed life insurance policies and contacts for more information.

Legal guardianship and unmarried couples
Law in Ireland regarding guardianship of children of non-marital relationships.

Custody of children and unmarried couples
When the parents of a child in Ireland separate and they cannot agree on who should have custody of the child, the court will decide. Find out about the law regarding the custody of children of non-marital relationships.

Access to children and unmarried couples
How the courts in Ireland decide arrangements for access to children for separating unmarried parents in this country.

Fertility services and unmarried couples
There is no legislation in Ireland governing assisted reproduction. Find out about fertility services and whether unmarried couples can avail of fertility treatment in Ireland.

Adoption and unmarried couples
Unmarried couples in Ireland cannot jointly adopt children. Find out the legal reasons for this and whether there are any exceptions.

Fostering and unmarried couples
Unmarried couples in Ireland may foster children. What is fostering and what rights do unmarried couples have?