Nigeria has a large and growing diaspora in Ireland, making it one of the most common countries for which we notarise documents. Whether you need documents for Nigerian courts, property transactions, family matters, or business purposes, this guide explains the process.
Nigeria and Document Authentication
Nigeria is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, which means documents destined for Nigeria require embassy legalisation rather than a simple apostille. The process is:
- Have the document notarised by an Irish Notary Public
- Obtain an apostille from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs
- Have the document legalised by the Embassy of Nigeria in Ireland
The Nigerian Embassy in Dublin can legalise documents, which is more convenient than some other non-Hague countries that require embassy legalisation in London.
Common Documents for Nigeria
Family and Personal
- Affidavits for Nigerian court proceedings
- Powers of attorney for property or legal matters
- Birth certificate certifications for dual nationality applications
- Marriage certificates
- Statutory declarations regarding family status
- Affidavits of support
Property and Land
Property matters in Nigeria are one of the most common reasons for notarisation:
- Powers of attorney for property purchases, sales, or management
- Deeds of assignment and transfer
- Affidavits relating to land disputes or title claims
- Consent declarations for property transactions
Legal Proceedings
- Affidavits for use in Nigerian courts
- Sworn statements and depositions
- Declarations of identity or change of name
- Witness statements
Business and Education
- Notarised degree certificates for Nigerian professional bodies
- Corporate documents for business registration
- Professional qualification verification
- Employment and reference letters
Nigerian Embassy Legalisation
The Embassy of Nigeria in Dublin provides a legalisation service for documents. This is more convenient than countries requiring legalisation through London. However, processing times can vary, so plan ahead. Hugh Phelan can advise on current processing times and requirements.
Translation Requirements
English is the official language of Nigeria, so translation is generally not required. Documents in English are accepted by most Nigerian authorities and courts.
Get Your Documents Ready for Nigeria
Hugh Phelan regularly notarises documents for use in Nigeria. Contact us at 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com, or book an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nigeria accept apostilled documents?
Nigeria is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Documents must be notarised, apostilled, and then legalised by the Nigerian Embassy in Dublin.
Is the Nigerian Embassy in Dublin or London?
The Nigerian Embassy is in Dublin, which is convenient for legalisation. You do not need to send documents to London.
Do Nigerian documents need to be translated?
Generally no. English is the official language of Nigeria, and documents in English are accepted by Nigerian authorities and courts.
Looking for a Notary Public in Cork?
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor & Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland. Same-day appointments available.
Notary Public Cork — Book Now📞 +353-21-489-7134 · East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork