When an Irish company expands internationally, one of the first documents foreign authorities request is the company’s articles of association (or constitution). This guide explains when and how to get them notarised for international use.
When Notarisation Is Required
Foreign authorities typically require notarised articles of association when an Irish company is:
- Opening a bank account abroad
- Registering a branch or subsidiary in another country
- Entering into contracts with foreign government entities
- Tendering for international projects
- Appointing agents or distributors abroad
- Setting up joint ventures with foreign companies
The Notarisation Process
- Obtain the original or CRO-certified copy: Get a certified copy from the Companies Registration Office (CRO) or use the original signed constitution
- Visit your Notary Public: The notary will verify the document, create a certified copy if needed, and attach a notarial certificate with their seal
- Apostille from the DFA: Submit to the Department of Foreign Affairs for an apostille
- Certified translation: Arrange if required by the destination country
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Original or CRO-certified articles of association/constitution
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Board resolution authorising the notarisation (if required)
- Passport or photo ID of the person attending
- CRO printout confirming current directors and secretary
Why Foreign Authorities Need Notarised Articles
The articles of association (or company constitution) define the company’s internal rules, its objects, the powers of directors, and how decisions are made. Foreign authorities need this information because:
- Legal capacity: They need to confirm the company has the legal power to enter into the proposed transaction
- Authorisation: They check who has authority to sign on behalf of the company
- Ownership structure: Some jurisdictions need to understand the company’s share structure
- Regulatory compliance: Foreign regulators may need to verify the company’s objects are consistent with the proposed activity
CRO-Certified Copy vs Notarised Copy
There’s an important distinction:
- CRO-certified copy: A copy certified by the Companies Registration Office. As a public document, this can go directly to the DFA for apostille without notarisation
- Notarised copy: A copy certified by a Notary Public. Some foreign authorities specifically require this, particularly when they want the notary’s attestation that the copy is a true copy of the original
Check with the foreign authority which type they require before your appointment.
Country-Specific Requirements
EU Member States
Most EU countries accept apostilled CRO-certified copies. However, some (particularly those with strong civil law traditions) may specifically request notarised copies.
Middle East
Countries in the Gulf region frequently require full embassy legalisation of notarised articles, plus certified Arabic translations.
United States
US state authorities and banks typically accept apostilled copies. Requirements vary by state.
Related Company Documents
Foreign authorities often request notarised articles alongside other company documents including certificates of good standing, board resolutions, and certificates of incorporation. Consider getting all required documents notarised in a single appointment to save time and cost.
Costs and Timeline
- Notarisation: €80–€150 per document
- DFA apostille: €20–€40 per document (same-day Dublin walk-in or 5–10 days postal)
- Certified translation: €50–€200 depending on document length and language
- Total timeline: 1–3 weeks for the complete process
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do articles of association need notarisation?
Foreign authorities need verified evidence of a company’s structure, powers, and constitution when the company operates internationally.
What is the process?
Obtain the original/CRO copy, visit your Notary Public for certification, then get an apostille from the DFA.
Do I need a board resolution too?
Often yes — foreign authorities want to know who can act on the company’s behalf.
How much does it cost?
Typically €80–€150 for notarisation plus €20–€40 for apostille, plus translation if needed.
Business Documents for International Use
Hugh Phelan, Solicitor and Notary Public, practises from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork.
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