You’ve visited your Notary Public, had your document notarised, and you’re holding a document with an official seal and signature. Now what? The notarisation is often just the first step in getting your document accepted abroad. This guide explains everything that comes next.
Immediately After Notarisation
When you leave the notary’s office, you should have:
- Your original document with the notarial certificate attached
- The notary’s seal (embossed or inked) on the certificate
- The notary’s signature
- A description of the notarial act performed
Important: Do not separate pages, remove staples, or alter the document in any way after notarisation. Any physical tampering invalidates the notarisation.
Next Step: Determine the Authentication Route
Your next step depends on the destination country:
Route 1: Hague Convention Countries (120+ nations)
If your document is going to a Hague Convention member country (UK, USA, Australia, most of Europe, etc.):
- Send the notarised document to the Department of Foreign Affairs for an apostille
- Once apostilled, the document is ready for the foreign authority
Route 2: Non-Hague Countries
If your document is going to a country that is not in the Hague Convention:
- Send to the DFA for an authentication stamp
- Then submit to the embassy or consulate of the destination country for legalisation
How to Submit to the DFA
- Walk-in (Dublin): Bring the notarised original to the DFA’s Consular Section for same-day apostille
- By post: Send the original by registered post with a cover letter, fee payment, and return envelope
Arranging Certified Translations
If the destination country requires a certified translation, arrange this in parallel with the DFA/embassy steps. A professional translator will translate the document and provide a certificate of accuracy. The translation may itself need to be notarised, depending on the destination country’s requirements.
Sending Documents Abroad
Once your document has been fully authenticated:
- Use tracked, insured courier: DHL, FedEx, UPS, or similar
- Never use ordinary post for original notarised documents
- Keep copies: Photocopy or scan everything before sending
- Track delivery: Confirm receipt with the foreign authority
Record Keeping
Keep records of:
- Copies of the notarised document
- Apostille or legalisation reference numbers
- Courier tracking numbers
- Correspondence with the foreign authority
- Your notary’s contact details (in case queries arise later)
Common Mistakes After Notarisation
- Separating the notarial certificate from the document: They must stay attached
- Sending by ordinary post: Risk of loss with no recourse
- Skipping the DFA step: A notarised document without apostille will be rejected
- Forgetting translations: Many countries require documents in their official language
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do after notarisation?
Send the document to the DFA for apostille (Hague countries) or authentication + embassy legalisation (non-Hague countries).
Do I need anything else after an apostille?
For most Hague countries, the apostille is the final step. Some may require a certified translation.
How should I send documents abroad?
Use a tracked, insured courier service. Never ordinary post for originals.
Can I use a scanned copy?
Most authorities require the original with physical seal. Scans may be accepted for preliminary review only.
Need Help with the Process?
Hugh Phelan, Solicitor and Notary Public, practises from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. He can guide you through every step after notarisation.
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