Australia is home to one of the largest Irish diaspora communities in the world. If you are an Irish citizen living in Australia and need documents notarised in Ireland — for property, inheritance, family matters, or any other purpose — this guide explains how to arrange it from the other side of the world.
Common Reasons Irish Citizens in Australia Need Irish Notarisation
Irish Property
Many Irish people in Australia retain property interests in Ireland. Common needs include:
- Power of Attorney: To authorise someone in Ireland to sell, buy, or manage property on your behalf
- Statutory declarations relating to property ownership
- Consent documents for planning applications
- Revenue declarations for Capital Gains Tax or inheritance tax matters
Inheritance and Probate
- Renunciation of rights in an Irish estate
- Affidavits for probate proceedings in Ireland
- Statutory declarations for the Revenue Commissioners
- Identity verification for solicitors acting in Irish estates
Personal Documents
- Irish passport-related declarations
- Citizenship documentation
- Family law affidavits
- Name change declarations
Documents for Australian Use
You may also need Irish documents notarised and apostilled for use in Australia:
- Irish degree certificates for Australian professional registration
- Birth certificates for visa or citizenship applications
- Marriage certificates
- Police clearance documentation
Australia is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so Irish documents that are notarised and apostilled are accepted by Australian authorities.
Options for Irish Citizens in Australia
Option 1: Visit Ireland
If you are planning a trip home, schedule a notary appointment during your visit. Contact us in advance so everything is prepared. Given the distance, this requires planning but is the most straightforward approach.
Option 2: Irish Embassy/Consulate in Australia
The Irish Embassy in Canberra and Irish consulates in Sydney may be able to notarise certain documents. However, consular notarial services are limited. Check directly with the embassy or consulate.
Option 3: Power of Attorney
For property and some legal matters, granting a Power of Attorney to a family member or solicitor in Ireland may allow them to handle matters without you needing to be physically present. Hugh Phelan can advise on this option.
Time Zone Considerations
With Australia 8–11 hours ahead of Ireland (depending on the state and time of year), phone consultations may require some planning. Email is often the most practical initial contact method. We respond to emails promptly and can arrange phone consultations at mutually convenient times.
Contact Us
Contact Hugh Phelan's office to discuss your requirements. Email info@phelansolicitors.com or call +353-21-489-7134 during Irish office hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get Irish documents notarised at the Irish Embassy in Australia?
The Irish Embassy in Canberra and consulates in Sydney may be able to notarise certain documents, but their services are limited. Contact them directly to check availability for your specific requirements.
Does Australia accept apostilled Irish documents?
Yes. Australia is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so Irish documents notarised and apostilled by the Department of Foreign Affairs are accepted by Australian authorities.
How do I handle Irish property from Australia?
The most common approach is to grant a Power of Attorney to a solicitor or family member in Ireland. This must be notarised — contact us to discuss whether this can be arranged during a visit or through other means.
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