When sponsoring someone for a visa or immigration application, the sponsoring party typically needs to provide notarised documentation proving their ability and willingness to support the applicant. This guide covers the common requirements and the notarisation process.
Types of Sponsor Documents
- Affidavit of support: A sworn statement that the sponsor will financially support the applicant
- Financial sponsorship declaration: A declaration of the sponsor’s financial means
- Accommodation letter: Confirmation that the sponsor will provide housing
- Undertaking letter: A formal undertaking to be responsible for the applicant during their stay
- Invitation letter: A letter inviting the applicant to visit or stay
Financial Evidence
Sponsors typically need to provide:
- Bank statements covering the last 6 months
- Proof of income (payslips, employment letter, or self-employment accounts)
- Tax returns or employment detail summaries
- Property ownership documents (if relevant)
- Pension statements (if applicable)
Step 1: Check Requirements
Contact the immigration authority to confirm exactly which documents they require and in what format. Requirements vary significantly between countries and visa types.
Step 2: Prepare the Declaration
Draft the sponsorship declaration or affidavit. This should include:
- The sponsor’s full name, address, and nationality
- The applicant’s full name and relationship to the sponsor
- The specific undertakings being made (financial support, accommodation, etc.)
- The period of support
- The sponsor’s financial means
Step 3: Notary Appointment
The sponsor must attend the notary appointment in person with:
- Valid photo ID (passport)
- Proof of address
- Financial documents (originals)
- Draft declaration or forms from the immigration authority
- Details of the applicant
Step 4: Notarisation
The notary will verify the sponsor’s identity, witness the signing of the declaration, certify copies of financial documents, and prepare notarial certificates.
Step 5: Apostille and Submission
If the documents are for a foreign immigration authority, they will likely need an apostille. Submit the complete package to the immigration authority via the required channel.
Common Scenarios
Sponsoring a Family Member to Visit Ireland
Irish citizens sponsoring a family member for a visit visa to Ireland may need to provide notarised financial documents and an invitation letter to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service.
Sponsoring a Spouse Visa (Foreign Country)
If your spouse is applying for a visa to another country (e.g., US, Canada, Australia), you may need notarised and apostilled financial sponsorship documents.
Student Visa Sponsorship
Parents or guardians sponsoring a student’s visa application often need notarised proof of financial means to cover tuition and living costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sponsor documents need notarising?
Financial sponsorship declarations, affidavits of support, accommodation letters, bank statements, and employment letters. Requirements depend on the immigration authority.
Does the sponsor need to attend the notary appointment?
Usually yes, as they must sign in the notary’s presence.
Can I sponsor someone for an Irish visa?
Yes. Irish citizens and residents can sponsor visa applicants with notarised declarations.
What financial documents does a sponsor need?
Typically 6 months of bank statements, proof of income, tax records, and a declaration of support.
Get Your Sponsor Documents Ready
Hugh Phelan, Solicitor and Notary Public, practises from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. He regularly prepares and notarises immigration sponsorship documents.
Contact: 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com.
Need Sponsor Documents Notarised?
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor & Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland.
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