Spain is one of the most common destinations for apostilled documents from Ireland, driven by property purchases, residency applications, and business transactions. This guide covers the apostille process specifically for Spanish-bound documents.
Why Spanish-Bound Documents Need an Apostille
Spain is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Spanish authorities, notarios, and institutions require Irish documents to be both notarised and apostilled before acceptance. Spain is particularly strict about document authentication — incomplete chains will result in rejection.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Notarisation
Have your documents notarised by an Irish Notary Public. If you have a power of attorney drafted by your Spanish lawyer, bring it for notarisation. Bring valid photo ID and any instructions from the Spanish party.
Step 2: Apostille from the DFA
Submit notarised documents to the Department of Foreign Affairs (76-78 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2) with cover letter, fees, and return envelope.
Step 3: Sworn Translation
After apostille, arrange a sworn translation into Spanish by a traductor jurado (sworn translator authorised by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs). This is an essential additional step for Spain.
Step 4: Delivery to Spain
Send the apostilled and translated documents to your Spanish lawyer or the Spanish institution.
Sworn Translation Requirements
Spain requires all foreign-language documents to be translated by a traductor jurado. These translators are officially authorised by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and their translations carry official status. Using an uncertified translator will result in your documents being rejected.
The correct sequence is: notarisation → apostille → sworn translation. The translator translates both the document and the apostille certificate.
Property-Specific Documents
For Spanish property purchases, the most critical documents requiring apostille are:
- Power of attorney (the most common)
- Certified passport copies
- Marriage certificates
- Corporate documents (if buying through a company)
See our guides on buying property in Spain and notarising documents for Spain for more detail.
Timelines
- Notarisation: Same day (one appointment)
- Apostille: 2-5 working days by post, same-day in person at DFA Dublin
- Sworn translation: 2-5 working days depending on the translator and volume
- Total: Budget 1-2 weeks for the complete process
How to Get Started
Contact Hugh Phelan's office:
- Call (021) 489 7134 or email info@phelansolicitors.com
See our apostille services page for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a sworn translation for Spain as well as an apostille?
Yes. Spain requires both an apostille and a sworn translation by a traductor jurado authorised by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The translation must be done after the apostille is affixed.
Can I use any translator for Spanish documents?
No. Spanish authorities only accept translations from officially authorised sworn translators (traductores jurados). Using an uncertified translator will result in rejection of your documents.
How long does the total process take for Spain?
Budget 1-2 weeks: notarisation (same day), apostille (2-5 days), sworn translation (2-5 days). If time is critical, in-person DFA processing and express translation services can speed things up.
Need Documents Notarised?
Contact Hugh Phelan, Solicitor & Notary Public in Cork, for prompt professional service. Over 20 years’ experience with international documents.
Looking for a Notary Public in Cork?
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor & Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland. Same-day appointments available.
Notary Public Cork — Book Now📞 +353-21-489-7134 · East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork