Arriving at your notary appointment without the right documents means a wasted trip and a delayed process. This comprehensive checklist ensures you come prepared with everything needed for a smooth, efficient appointment with your Notary Public in Cork.
Essential for Every Appointment
Valid Photo Identification
The notary must verify your identity. Bring at least one of the following:
- Current passport (most widely accepted internationally)
- National identity card (EU/EEA citizens)
- Current driving licence (may not be accepted for all international documents)
Tip: If your document is for international use, bring your passport. Some foreign authorities require the notary to record passport details in the notarial certificate.
Proof of Address (Often Required)
- Recent utility bill (within 3 months)
- Bank statement (within 3 months)
- Revenue correspondence
The Document to Be Notarised
Bring the actual document that needs notarisation. Important considerations:
- Do NOT sign it in advance — the notary must witness your signature
- Bring at least two copies if possible
- If the document was sent to you by a foreign party, bring the original and any instructions they provided
- If you need certified copies of an existing document, bring the original
Additional Items by Document Type
Powers of Attorney
- Full name and address of the person you’re appointing as attorney
- Details of what the power of attorney covers (property address, bank accounts, etc.)
- Any template or draft provided by the foreign authority
- If for property transactions, bring the property details
Company Documents
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Company constitution or memorandum/articles of association
- Board resolution authorising the signatory (if you’re signing on behalf of a company)
- Company seal (if applicable)
- CRO printout confirming current directors
Statutory Declarations
- Draft of the declaration (or the facts you need to declare)
- Any supporting documents referenced in the declaration
Certified Copies
- Original document(s) to be copied
- If academic documents, the original degree/diploma/transcript
Affidavits
- Draft affidavit (the notary can help finalise the wording)
- Any exhibits to be attached to the affidavit
Information to Know Before Your Appointment
- Destination country: Where will the document be used? This affects the notarial wording and whether you need an apostille or legalisation
- Purpose: Why is the document needed? (property purchase, visa, business registration, etc.)
- Deadline: When does the foreign authority need the document? This helps plan the timeline
- Special requirements: Has the foreign authority specified particular wording, format, or additional declarations?
- Number of copies: How many notarised originals are needed?
What NOT to Do
- Don’t sign the document before your appointment — the notary must witness the signing
- Don’t bring expired identification — passports and IDs must be current
- Don’t bring only photocopies — original documents are required for certified copies
- Don’t assume your solicitor’s stamp will work abroad — check if you need a Notary Public rather than a Commissioner for Oaths
Frequently Asked Questions
What ID do I need for a notary appointment?
A current passport is best, especially for international documents. National ID cards and driving licences may also be accepted depending on the purpose.
Should I sign the document before my appointment?
No. Never sign the document before seeing the notary. The notary must witness your signature in person.
What if I forget something?
The notary cannot complete the process without proper identification and the required documents. You may need to reschedule, which causes delays.
Can someone else attend on my behalf?
Generally no — the notary must verify your identity and witness your signature in person. Exceptions may apply in specific circumstances; discuss with the notary in advance.
Book Your Appointment
Hugh Phelan, Solicitor and Notary Public, practises from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. Call ahead to confirm what you’ll need for your specific situation.
Contact: 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com.
Looking for a Notary Public in Cork?
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor & Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland.
Notary Public Cork — Book Now📞 +353-21-489-7134 · East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork