When an Irish company expands internationally — setting up a subsidiary, branch office, or entering a joint venture abroad — the foreign company registry will typically require notarised and apostilled copies of the Irish company’s founding documents. This guide covers the process.
Common Documents Required
- Certificate of incorporation: Proof the company is legally registered in Ireland
- Memorandum and articles of association: The company’s constitutional documents
- Certificate of good standing: From the Companies Registration Office (CRO), confirming the company is active and compliant
- Board resolution: Authorising the foreign registration and appointing local representatives
- Director identification: Notarised passport copies and proof of address for directors
- Company seal impression: If the company uses a seal
- Power of attorney: Authorising a local representative to act for the company abroad
- Financial statements: Audited accounts may be required by some jurisdictions
Step 1: Determine Foreign Requirements
Contact the foreign company registry or your local lawyer to find out exactly which documents are needed and in what format. Requirements vary significantly between jurisdictions.
Step 2: Obtain Documents
- Certificate of incorporation: If you don’t have the original, request a certified copy from the CRO
- Good standing certificate: Apply to the CRO; processing takes a few working days
- Board resolution: Have the board pass and sign a resolution authorising the foreign expansion
Step 3: Notary Appointment
An authorised director or company secretary should attend with:
- All original company documents
- Personal photo ID (passport)
- Board resolution authorising them to act
- Company seal (if used)
- Written requirements from the foreign registry
Step 4: Notarisation
The notary will verify the attendee’s identity and authority, certify copies of company documents, witness signatures on board resolutions and powers of attorney, and prepare notarial certificates.
Step 5: Apostille and Translation
Submit all notarised documents to the DFA for apostille, then arrange certified translations if required.
Branch Office vs. Subsidiary
- Branch office: An extension of the Irish company. Documentation requirements typically focus on the parent company’s existence and good standing.
- Subsidiary: A separate legal entity. Documentation is more extensive, as a new company is being formed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What company documents need notarising?
Certificate of incorporation, memorandum and articles, board resolutions, director ID, good standing certificates, and powers of attorney.
Can I use Irish company documents to set up abroad?
Yes, with notarisation and apostille.
Do I need a good standing certificate?
Many foreign jurisdictions require one. Obtain it from the CRO.
Who needs to attend the notary appointment?
An authorised director or company secretary with photo ID and a board resolution.
Business Document Notarisation
Hugh Phelan, Solicitor and Notary Public, practises from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. He regularly notarises company documents for international business expansion.
Contact: 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com.
Setting Up a Company Abroad? Get Documents Ready
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