Whether you are moving abroad, buying property overseas, setting up an international business, or getting married in another country, you will almost certainly need the services of a Notary Public. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about notary services in Cork — what a notary does, what documents they handle, how much it costs, and how to book an appointment.
What Is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is a legal professional appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland to authenticate documents for use in other countries. The appointment is for life and is one of the oldest legal offices in the world, with origins dating back to the Roman Empire.
In Ireland, Notaries Public are members of the Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland and must hold the Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice. Most Irish notaries are also qualified Solicitors, which means they can provide both general legal services and notarial authentication.
What Does a Notary Public Do?
The core functions of a Notary Public include:
- Witnessing signatures — verifying the identity of signatories and witnessing the execution of documents
- Certifying copies — preparing notarised copies of original documents (passports, certificates, qualifications)
- Administering oaths and affirmations — for statutory declarations, affidavits, and sworn statements
- Authenticating documents — attaching the notary's seal and signature to give documents international legal recognition
- Preparing notarial acts — formal documents in the specific format required by foreign jurisdictions
- Protesting bills of exchange — a historical function still occasionally required in maritime and commercial law
Common Documents Handled by a Cork Notary
Personal Documents
- Passport copies — notarised for foreign use
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates — notarised copies
- Powers of Attorney — for use in Ireland or abroad
- Statutory declarations and affidavits
- Consent letters for children travelling abroad
- Name change documents
- Freedom to Marry certificates
Business and Corporate Documents
- Certificates of Incorporation — notarised copies
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Board resolutions
- Shareholder agreements
- Company Powers of Attorney
- Director identification documents
- Trade mark and patent certificates
Property Documents
- Powers of Attorney for property purchases abroad
- Title deed certifications
- Mortgage documents for foreign lenders
- Property declarations
Educational and Professional Documents
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Professional registration certificates
- Employment references
- Medical and nursing qualifications
Notarisation vs Certification vs Apostille
These terms are often confused. Here is the difference:
- Certification — a certified copy is a copy of an original document that has been verified as a true copy by a solicitor, notary, or other authorised person
- Notarisation — the act of a Notary Public authenticating a document by attaching their official seal and signature. This provides a higher level of authentication recognised internationally
- Apostille — a certificate issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs that authenticates the notary's signature and seal for use in countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention
The typical chain is: Original document → Notarisation → Apostille → Translation (if required).
How Much Does a Notary Cost in Cork?
Notary fees in Cork vary depending on the type and complexity of work:
- Simple certified copy — from approximately €80–€150
- Witnessed signature — from approximately €80–€150
- Statutory declaration — from approximately €80–€150
- Power of Attorney — from approximately €150–€300, depending on complexity
- Multiple documents — reduced per-document rate when handled in one appointment
The apostille fee charged by the Department of Foreign Affairs is €40 per document (as of 2025).
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Photo ID — valid passport or driving licence
- Original documents — the originals you need notarised or copied
- Any instructions from the requesting party — e.g., specific wording required by a foreign institution, embassy, or employer
- Contact details — for the foreign institution if the notary needs to verify requirements
How to Get an Apostille
After notarisation, documents for use in Hague Convention countries need an apostille. The process is:
- Have your document notarised by a Notary Public
- Submit to the Department of Foreign Affairs — either by post to Iveagh House, Dublin, or in person at their Dublin office
- Pay the fee — €40 per document
- Processing time — 3–5 working days by post; same day in person
Finding a Notary Public in Cork
There are a limited number of Notaries Public practising in Cork, as the appointment is made by the Chief Justice and is not unlimited. When choosing a notary, consider:
- Qualifications — are they a member of the Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland?
- Experience — do they have experience with your type of document or destination country?
- Dual qualification — a notary who is also a solicitor can provide broader legal advice
- Location and availability — can they offer a timely appointment?
About Hugh Phelan — Notary Public, Douglas, Cork
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor and Notary Public practising from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. He holds a BCL from University College Cork and a Diploma in Notarial Law. He is dual-qualified in Ireland and England & Wales, and was appointed as a Notary Public by the Chief Justice of Ireland — a commission for life.
Hugh handles all types of notarial work, from simple certified copies to complex international Powers of Attorney and corporate documentation. Same-day appointments are often available.
Contact us at 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com, or book an appointment online.
Looking for a Notary Public in Cork?
Hugh Phelan — Solicitor & Notary Public, East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. Same-day appointments available.
Book Your Appointment📞 +353-21-489-7134 · East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork