If you need a document notarised but cannot easily get to a Notary Public's office, you may wonder whether documents can be notarised by post. This is a common question, especially from people living outside Cork, those with mobility issues, or people who need documents notarised urgently. This guide explains the rules and your options.
The Short Answer
No — documents cannot be notarised by post in Ireland. The person whose document is being notarised must appear before the Notary Public in person. This is a fundamental requirement of notarial practice, not a preference or a formality that can be waived.
Why Must You Attend in Person?
The requirement for personal attendance exists because of the nature of what a Notary Public does:
- Identity verification: The notary must verify your identity by examining your passport or ID in person. They cannot do this from a photocopy or scan.
- Witnessing the signature: If the document requires your signature, the notary must watch you sign it. A signature that was already on the document when it arrives by post was not witnessed by the notary.
- Assessing willingness: The notary must satisfy themselves that you are signing the document freely and voluntarily, without duress or undue influence. This requires a face-to-face interaction.
- Administering oaths: If the document requires an oath or affirmation, the notary must administer it in person.
- Legal integrity: The entire value of a notarised document lies in the notary's personal attestation that they met the signer, verified their identity, and witnessed the relevant act. This cannot be done remotely.
What Are Your Options?
If attending a Notary Public in Cork is difficult, there are several alternatives:
Find a Local Notary
If you live outside Cork, you can use a Notary Public closer to you. Every county in Ireland has Notaries Public. Contact the Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland or search online for a notary in your area.
Arrange a Convenient Appointment Time
If you work during the day or have other commitments, call the notary's office to discuss scheduling. Some notaries may be able to accommodate appointments at times that suit you.
Send Documents Ahead by Email
While you cannot be notarised by post, you can send documents to the notary by email in advance for their review. This means the notary is already familiar with your documents when you attend, making the in-person appointment as quick as possible.
Have Someone Bring You
If mobility is an issue, you can bring a companion to help you travel to and from the appointment. The companion can wait while you see the notary.
What Parts Can Be Handled by Post or Email?
While the notarisation itself must be in person, other parts of the process can be handled remotely:
- Initial enquiry: You can call or email to discuss your requirements and get a quote.
- Document review: You can email documents for the notary to review before your visit.
- Instructions: You can provide instructions from the requesting party by email.
- Apostille by post: After notarisation, you can post the notarised document to the DFA for an apostille (5–10 working days).
- Delivery of completed documents: In some cases, the completed notarised document can be posted or couriered to you or to the requesting party after the appointment.
What About Certified Copies?
If you need a certified copy of a document (e.g., a copy of your passport), you must still attend in person with the original document. The notary must compare the copy to the original in person and verify your identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I post documents to a notary and have them notarised?
No. You must attend in person. The notary must verify your identity and witness any required signature face-to-face.
Can I send documents by email for notarisation?
You can email documents in advance for the notary to review, but you must still attend in person for the actual notarisation.
What if I live far from Cork?
You can use a Notary Public closer to where you live. Every county has Notaries Public. Alternatively, if your matter specifically requires Hugh Phelan's office, arrange a time to visit.
Can the notary come to me?
In exceptional circumstances, some notaries may be able to attend at your location (e.g., hospital, nursing home). Contact the office to discuss your situation.
Need to Book an Appointment?
Contact Hugh Phelan's office to arrange your in-person notarisation appointment. Call 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