The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is Ireland’s designated Competent Authority for issuing apostilles under the Hague Apostille Convention. Understanding how the DFA’s apostille service works is essential for anyone who needs Irish documents authenticated for use abroad.
The DFA’s Role
The DFA does not verify the content of documents. Its sole role in the apostille process is to verify the authenticity of the signature, seal, or stamp on the document. For notarised documents, this means confirming that the notary’s seal and signature match those on file with the DFA.
How to Apply for an Apostille
In Person (Dublin)
The DFA offers a walk-in service at its Consular Section in Dublin. Documents can typically be apostilled on the same day if submitted early enough. The address and opening hours are available on the DFA website at dfa.ie.
By Post
Documents can be sent by registered post to the DFA’s Apostille Section. Postal processing typically takes 5–10 working days. You must include:
- The original document (not a photocopy)
- A cover letter specifying the destination country
- The appropriate fee
- A pre-paid return envelope (registered post recommended)
Documents the DFA Will Apostille
- Notarised documents: Any document bearing a registered Irish notary’s seal and signature
- Court documents: Documents bearing the seal of an Irish court
- Vital records: Birth, marriage, and death certificates from the General Register Office
- Government documents: Documents from government departments bearing an official seal
- Company documents: CRO certificates and filings
- Garda vetting: National Vetting Bureau disclosures
Documents the DFA Will NOT Apostille
- Photocopies (unless notarised as certified copies)
- Documents without a recognised official signature, seal, or stamp
- Documents from foreign authorities
- Private documents that have not been notarised
Fees
The DFA charges a fee per apostille. Fee levels are set by the DFA and may change. Check the DFA website for current fees. Payment methods accepted typically include bank draft, postal order, or online payment.
Processing Times
- Walk-in (Dublin): Same day, typically within a few hours
- Postal: 5–10 working days (excluding postal transit time)
- Peak periods: Processing may take longer during busy periods (summer months, start of academic year)
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Use original documents — the DFA will not apostille photocopies
- Ensure notarisation is complete — the notary’s seal and signature must be present and clear
- Check the notary’s registration — the notary’s seal must be on file with the DFA
- Include all required items — fee, return envelope, cover letter
- Allow sufficient time — don’t leave it to the last minute, especially for postal applications
Special Situations
Multiple Documents
If you need apostilles on several documents, each document requires its own apostille certificate and its own fee. The DFA processes them individually. When submitting multiple documents by post, clearly list all documents in your cover letter and include the correct total fee.
Urgent Applications
If you have an urgent deadline, the walk-in service in Dublin is the fastest option, typically processing applications within a few hours on the same day. There is no official “express” postal service, so if postal processing times are too slow, plan to attend in person or use a courier service that can submit on your behalf.
Documents from the General Register Office
Birth, marriage, and death certificates issued by the General Register Office (GRO) already bear an official seal and can be apostilled directly without notarisation. However, they must be original certificates — not photocopies or older-format certificates that may not bear the current seal.
Company Documents
Documents from the Companies Registration Office (CRO), such as certificates of incorporation, certificates of good standing, and certified copies of filings, can be apostilled directly as they bear the CRO seal. Trade licence documents and Revenue clearance certificates can also be processed.
Court Documents
Court orders, judgments, and other documents bearing the seal of an Irish court can be apostilled directly by the DFA. These are commonly needed for enforcement of court orders abroad, recognition of divorces, and international child custody matters.
The Role of Your Notary Public
Your notary public is the first link in the authentication chain. The DFA can only apostille a document if the notary’s seal is registered with them. An experienced notary will ensure documents are prepared correctly for apostille, reducing the risk of rejection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an apostille on the same day?
Yes, if you apply in person at the DFA’s Dublin office. Postal applications take 5–10 working days.
Does the DFA check the content of my document?
No. The DFA only verifies the authenticity of the signature, seal, or stamp. It does not verify the content or legal effect of the document.
What if the DFA rejects my document?
Common reasons include unregistered notary seals, missing signatures, or submitting photocopies. Your notary can help resolve these issues. See our guide on apostille rejection.
Need Help Preparing Documents for Apostille?
Hugh Phelan ensures all notarised documents are properly prepared for DFA apostille. Contact his office at 021-489-7134 or email info@phelansolicitors.com.