Whether you are facing a tight deadline or simply planning ahead, knowing how long notarisation takes helps you manage your time effectively. The good news is that the appointment itself is usually quick — but the overall timeline depends on several factors, including what happens after notarisation. This guide covers everything from appointment duration to the full timeline for getting documents ready for use abroad.
How Long Does the Appointment Take?
The notarisation appointment itself is typically straightforward and relatively quick:
- Simple notarisation (one document, standard certified copy or signature verification): 15–20 minutes
- Standard notarisation (power of attorney, statutory declaration, or affidavit): 20–30 minutes
- Complex notarisation (multiple documents, corporate documents requiring review, or detailed powers of attorney): 30–60 minutes
These times include identity verification, document review, the notarial act itself, and affixing the seal and signature. If you arrive well-prepared with all required documents and identification, the process moves quickly.
Factors That Affect How Long It Takes
Before the Appointment
- Booking availability: Depending on the notary's diary, you may be seen the same day or within a few days. Calling early improves your chances of a quick appointment.
- Document preparation: If you send documents to the notary's office in advance (by email), they can review them before your appointment, saving time on the day.
During the Appointment
- Completeness: Having all required documents, ID, and instructions ready means no delays.
- Number of documents: Multiple documents take proportionally longer.
- Complexity: Documents requiring detailed review (multi-page contracts, complex PoAs) take more time.
- Questions and queries: If there are issues with the document (incorrect names, missing information, unclear instructions from the requesting party), these need to be resolved.
After the Appointment
- Apostille: If you need an apostille, this is an additional step. Same-day in person at the DFA in Dublin, or 5–10 working days by post.
- Embassy legalisation: Processing times vary by embassy — from a few days to several weeks.
- Translation: Certified translation adds additional time, typically a few days.
Can I Get It Done the Same Day?
Yes — the notarisation itself can often be completed the same day you contact the office. See our guide on same-day notarisation in Cork for details.
However, if you also need an apostille or embassy legalisation, the full process will take longer. Plan your timeline accordingly.
Full Timeline: Notarisation + Apostille
If you need a notarised document with an apostille, here is a realistic timeline:
- Day 1: Notarisation appointment in Cork (same-day if available)
- Day 1–2: Post the notarised document to the DFA, or travel to Dublin in person
- Same day (in person) or 5–10 working days (by post): Apostille issued by the DFA
- Total: 1 day (if done in person in Dublin) to approximately 2 weeks (if done entirely by post)
For embassy legalisation (non-Hague countries), add the embassy's processing time on top of this.
Tips for Speed
- Call early: Contact the notary first thing in the morning for the best same-day availability.
- Email documents ahead: Let the notary review your documents before the appointment.
- Have ID ready: Valid passport is the fastest form of ID verification.
- Consider the DFA trip: If time is critical, going to the DFA in Dublin in person saves days compared to posting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical notarisation take?
The appointment itself usually takes 15–30 minutes for straightforward matters. More complex notarisations may take up to an hour.
Can notarisation be done the same day?
Yes, same-day notarisation is often possible in Cork. Call Hugh Phelan's office at 021-489-7134 as early as possible.
How long does the apostille take?
Same-day if done in person at the DFA in Dublin. 5–10 working days if sent by post.
What's the fastest I can get a notarised and apostilled document?
If you get notarised in Cork in the morning and travel to the DFA in Dublin the same day, you could have the apostilled document by the end of the day.
Need Documents Notarised Quickly?
Call 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