Selling a property in Spain, Portugal, France, or anywhere else while living in Cork? You’ll need documents that the foreign land registry and notary will accept. This means notarisation by a Notary Public, not a Commissioner for Oaths. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why You Need a Notary Public
Foreign land registries and notaries require documents authenticated to international standards. This means:
- A Notary Public seal (internationally recognised)
- An apostille or legalisation confirming the seal’s authenticity
- Specific wording that meets the requirements of the destination country
Documents Commonly Required
Power of Attorney
The most critical document. Since you’re in Ireland and the property is abroad, you’ll typically need a power of attorney authorising someone in the other country to complete the sale on your behalf. This person (your attorney) can then sign the sale deed at the foreign notary’s office.
Identity Verification
Notarised copies of your passport and proof of address, confirming your identity for the foreign authority.
Marital Status Declaration
Many countries require a declaration confirming your marital status, as this affects property ownership rights. This must be notarised.
Tax Declarations
Some countries require declarations about tax residency or tax identification numbers, notarised for authenticity.
Title Documents
Original title deeds or copies may need to be notarised and authenticated.
Country-Specific Requirements
Spain
Spain is one of the most common destinations for Cork residents selling property. Requirements typically include a specific-format power of attorney (poder notarial), NIE number confirmation, and potentially an energy performance certificate. The power of attorney usually needs to be in both English and Spanish.
Portugal
Portuguese property sales require a power of attorney (procuração), NIF number, and specific declarations. Documents typically need Portuguese translation.
France
French property transactions require a notarial power of attorney (procuration), identity documents, and family status certificates. French notaries have very specific requirements about wording.
The Authentication Chain for Property Documents
- Notarisation: Your Notary Public in Cork notarises the documents
- Apostille: The DFA issues an apostille (for EU and Hague countries)
- Translation: A certified translation is prepared if required
- Submission: Documents are sent to the foreign notary or land registry
Timeline Planning
Property sales have deadlines. Plan your document timeline carefully:
- Notary appointment: Book 2–3 weeks before you need the documents
- DFA apostille: Allow 5–10 working days (postal) or same-day (Dublin walk-in)
- Translation: 3–5 working days for certified translation
- Courier to foreign notary: 2–3 days for international courier
- Total recommended lead time: 3–4 weeks minimum
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Notary Public to sell property abroad?
Yes. Foreign land registries require notarised documents with international recognition.
What documents need notarisation?
Power of attorney, identity declarations, marital status, and tax declarations — requirements vary by country.
How long does the process take?
Allow 3–4 weeks minimum for the complete chain.
Can I sign remotely from Cork?
Not directly, but you can sign a power of attorney in Cork authorising someone abroad to complete the sale.
Selling Property Abroad? Start Here
Hugh Phelan, Solicitor and Notary Public, practises from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. With experience preparing property documents for jurisdictions worldwide, he ensures your documents meet the specific requirements of the destination country.
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