In an era where so many services have moved online, it is natural to wonder whether notarisation can also be done remotely. Several countries — particularly the United States — have introduced remote online notarisation (RON) in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. But what about Ireland? This guide explains the current position on online notarisation in Ireland and what your options are.
The Current Position in Ireland
As of 2025, documents cannot be notarised online or remotely in Ireland. Irish notarial practice requires the person appearing before the Notary Public to do so in person, physically present in the notary's office or at an agreed location. This applies to all types of notarial acts — witnessing signatures, certifying copies, administering oaths, and authenticating documents.
There is currently no legislation or regulation in Ireland that authorises remote online notarisation (RON) — where the notary and the signer connect via video call and the notarisation is performed digitally.
Why Can't Notarisation Be Done Online?
The reasons are both legal and practical:
- Legal framework: Irish notarial law and practice require the physical presence of the person before the Notary Public. There is no legislative provision for remote notarisation.
- Identity verification: While technology exists for remote identity verification, Irish notarial practice requires in-person examination of identity documents. A physical passport inspection provides greater certainty than viewing an image on screen.
- Physical seal: The notary's seal is a physical mark — either embossed or stamped in ink — on the paper document. This does not translate to a fully digital process.
- International acceptance: Many foreign authorities still expect physically notarised documents with original seals. A remotely notarised document might not be accepted abroad.
- Security concerns: In-person attendance provides protections against impersonation, duress, and fraud that are harder to guarantee over a video link.
What About Other Countries?
Some jurisdictions have embraced remote online notarisation:
- United States: Many US states now permit remote online notarisation, where the notary and signer connect via video. However, US notaries and Irish notaries are fundamentally different roles — US notaries perform a much more limited function.
- United Kingdom: England and Wales have explored digital solutions but have not introduced remote notarisation for the traditional notarial function.
- EU: The EU has regulations on electronic identification (eIDAS), but these do not currently extend to replacing the traditional notarial function in common law countries like Ireland.
It is important to note that even in countries that permit RON, the remotely notarised document may not be accepted in Ireland or in the specific country where you need to use the document. Acceptance depends on the laws and practices of the receiving jurisdiction.
Will Online Notarisation Come to Ireland?
It is possible that Irish law may evolve to permit some form of remote notarisation in the future. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital legal services worldwide, and there is ongoing discussion about modernising notarial practice.
However, any changes would likely:
- Require primary legislation
- Need to address identity verification standards
- Require agreement from the Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland
- Need to ensure international acceptance of remotely notarised documents
For now, in-person attendance remains the rule.
Your Options Today
If you cannot easily attend a notary in person, here are your practical options:
- Use a local notary: Find a Notary Public closer to your location. Every county in Ireland has Notaries Public.
- Pre-appointment preparation: Email documents to the notary in advance so the in-person appointment is as quick as possible.
- Same-day service: If you can get to Cork, same-day notarisation is often available.
- Exceptional arrangements: In some cases, a notary may be able to attend at your location (hospital, nursing home, etc.) in exceptional circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a document notarised over Zoom or video call in Ireland?
No. Irish notarial practice requires in-person attendance. Remote online notarisation via video call is not currently permitted in Ireland.
Can I use a US remote online notarisation for a document to be used in Ireland?
This depends on the Irish authority receiving the document. While a US RON may be valid under US law, it may not be accepted by Irish institutions, courts, or government bodies. Check with the receiving party before proceeding.
Will Ireland allow online notarisation in the future?
It is possible, but no legislation has been introduced yet. Any change would require primary legislation and agreement from the notarial profession. For now, in-person attendance is required.
What is the best option if I cannot attend in person?
Find a Notary Public closer to your location, or contact Hugh Phelan's office to discuss possible arrangements for exceptional circumstances.
Need In-Person Notarisation in Cork?
Contact Hugh Phelan's office at 021-489-7134 or email info@phelansolicitors.com.
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