What documents do I need notarised for a US visa or Green Card application?

For US immigration, you typically need notarised and apostilled copies of your birth certificate, marriage certificate, police clearance certificates, educational qualifications, and employment references. For family-based immigration, you may also need affidavits of support and relationship evidence. The US Embassy in Dublin and USCIS have specific requirements depending on your visa category.

Does the US accept the Hague Apostille on Irish documents?

Yes. The United States has been a party to the Hague Apostille Convention since 1981. Irish public documents bearing an apostille from the Department of Foreign Affairs are accepted by US federal and state authorities without further legalisation.

Do I need a Social Security Number before moving to the USA?

You cannot apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) until you arrive in the United States and have valid immigration status that permits employment. You can apply at your local Social Security Administration office after arrival. Some visa categories allow you to request an SSN as part of the visa application process.

How long does the US immigration process take from Ireland?

Processing times vary significantly by visa category. Employment-based visas can take 6–18 months; family-based Green Cards can take 1–2 years or more; the Diversity Visa Lottery is an annual programme. Start gathering and notarising documents well in advance of your intended move date.

Complete Checklist: Documents Needed Before Moving to the USA from Cork

The United States remains a dream destination for many Irish people — whether for career opportunities, family reunification, or a fresh start. US immigration is famously complex, and having your documentation properly prepared, notarised, and apostilled is critical. This checklist covers every document you are likely to need when moving to the USA from Cork.

Understanding US Document Requirements

The United States is a party to the Hague Apostille Convention. Irish public documents must carry an apostille from the Department of Foreign Affairs to be accepted by US authorities. The US Embassy in Dublin and USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) both require original or certified copies of key documents.

✅ Visa and Immigration Documents

The documents you need depend on your visa category:

Employment-Based Immigration

Valid passport — at least 6 months' validity beyond intended stay
Birth certificate — long-form, apostilled
Educational qualifications — degree certificates, transcripts; notarised copies, apostilled
Employment references — on company letterhead, notarised
Professional licences — notarised copies
Labour Condition Application (H-1B) or Petition for Alien Worker (filed by US employer)
Police clearance certificate — from An Garda Síochána; apostilled
Medical examination — from a US Embassy-approved panel physician
DS-160 or DS-260 forms — completed online
Passport-sized photographs — US specifications (2" × 2")

Family-Based Immigration

All of the above, plus:
Marriage certificate — apostilled
Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) — from your US-based sponsor
Evidence of relationship — photographs, correspondence, travel records
Divorce decrees (if applicable) — apostilled
Death certificates (if applicable) — apostilled

Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery)

High school diploma or equivalent — notarised, apostilled
Birth certificate — apostilled
Police clearance — apostilled
Medical examination results

✅ Personal Documents

Notarised copies of passports — for all family members
Children's birth certificates — apostilled
Custody orders (if applicable) — notarised and apostilled
Name change documentation (if applicable) — deed poll, apostilled
Adoption papers (if applicable) — apostilled

✅ Financial Documents

Bank statements — 6–12 months, showing financial stability
Tax returns — Irish Revenue records for the past 3 years
Employment contract or offer letter from US employer
Property ownership documents — proof of assets
Pension documentation

✅ Property and Legal Affairs in Ireland

Power of Attorney — to manage Irish property, banking, or legal matters; notarised
Property deeds — if selling or renting your Irish home
Will — review for both Irish and US assets; consider US estate tax implications

✅ Healthcare

Vaccination records — the US requires specific vaccinations for immigration (MMR, polio, hepatitis B, varicella, and others)
Medical records summary — from your GP
Prescription details — US-equivalent medication names
Health insurance — the US has no public healthcare; arrange coverage before arrival

✅ Driving

Irish driving licence — accepted temporarily in most US states (varies by state, typically 30–90 days)
International Driving Permit — recommended
Driving record from NDLS — some US states accept this for expedited licensing

✅ Pets

Health certificate — issued by a vet within 10 days of travel
Rabies vaccination certificate
Airline-approved carrier
Requirements vary by US state — check the destination state's regulations

Timeline: When to Start

12+ months before: Research visa options, begin employer petition or family sponsorship process
6–9 months before: Gather and notarise all documents, apply for police clearance
3–6 months before: Attend US Embassy interview (if required), complete medical examinations
1–2 months before: Finalise Power of Attorney, arrange finances, book flights

How Hugh Phelan Can Help

Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor and Notary Public practising from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. He regularly assists clients preparing documentation for US immigration — from apostilled birth certificates to notarised affidavits and Powers of Attorney. As both a Solicitor and Notary Public, he can handle all your notarisation needs in a single appointment.

Contact us at 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com, or book an appointment online.