If you are an Irish citizen living in the United States and need documents notarised in Ireland, this guide explains your options, the process, and how to work with Hugh Phelan's office in Cork to get what you need — even from thousands of miles away.
Understanding the Difference: Irish vs US Notarisation
It is important to understand that the Irish and US notary systems are fundamentally different:
- US Notary Public: A relatively simple commission, often with minimal legal training. Available in every bank, UPS store, and law office. Primarily witnesses signatures.
- Irish Notary Public: A senior legal professional appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland for life. Requires years of legal education and specialist notarial training. Authentication carries international weight.
Because of these differences, a US notarisation is not equivalent to an Irish notarisation. If an Irish authority or foreign government requires documents to be notarised by an Irish notary, a US notarisation will not be accepted.
When You Need an Irish Notary from the USA
Irish Property Transactions
If you are buying, selling, or managing property in Ireland while living in the USA:
- Power of Attorney: To authorise a solicitor or family member in Ireland to act on your behalf
- Statutory declarations relating to property ownership
- Consent documents for planning or development matters
Inheritance and Probate
- Renunciation of rights in an Irish estate
- Affidavits for probate proceedings
- Statutory declarations for Revenue Commissioners
Personal and Family
- Declarations for Irish passport applications
- Affidavits for family law proceedings in Ireland
- Name change declarations
- Citizenship and identity documents
Options for Irish Citizens in the USA
Option 1: Visit Ireland
If you are planning a trip home, schedule a notary appointment during your visit. Call ahead to arrange a specific time so everything is prepared when you arrive. This is the simplest option.
Option 2: Irish Consulate in the USA
Irish consular officers in the USA can notarise certain documents. However, consular services are limited and may not cover all types of notarial acts. Check with your nearest Irish consulate (New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, or Austin).
Option 3: Authorise a Representative
In some cases, a family member or solicitor in Ireland can handle matters on your behalf with an appropriate Power of Attorney. Hugh Phelan can advise on whether this is suitable for your situation.
Documents Going FROM Ireland TO the USA
If you need Irish documents for use in the United States, the process is:
- Have the document notarised by Hugh Phelan
- Obtain an apostille from the Department of Foreign Affairs (the USA is a Hague Convention member)
- The apostilled document is then valid for US use
Contact Us
Whether you are in New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, or anywhere else in the USA, contact Hugh Phelan's office to discuss your notary requirements. Call +353-21-489-7134 or email info@phelansolicitors.com. We can advise on the best approach for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a US notary replace an Irish notary?
No. The US and Irish notary systems are fundamentally different. A US notarisation will not be accepted where an Irish notarisation is specifically required.
Can I get documents notarised at an Irish consulate in the USA?
Irish consular officers can notarise certain documents, but their services are limited. Contact your nearest Irish consulate to check if they can help with your specific requirements.
Does the USA accept apostilled Irish documents?
Yes. The USA is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, so Irish documents that are notarised and apostilled are accepted by US authorities.
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