Immigration is one of the most common reasons people in Ireland need a Notary Public. Whether you are applying for a work visa, family reunion, student visa, or permanent residency in another country, the immigration authorities of that country will almost certainly require notarised documents from Ireland.
Why Immigration Documents Need Notarisation
Immigration authorities worldwide need to verify that the documents submitted with applications are genuine. Notarisation by a Notary Public provides this verification. The notary confirms that copies are true copies of originals, that signatures are genuine, and that sworn statements are properly made.
For Hague Convention countries, notarised documents are then apostilled by the Department of Foreign Affairs. For non-Hague countries, embassy legalisation is required. The receiving country's immigration authority specifies which documents need notarisation.
Common Immigration Documents Requiring Notarisation
- Certified Copies of Passports: Almost every immigration application requires notarised copies of the applicant's passport.
- Birth Certificates: Notarised copies for identity verification and family relationship evidence.
- Marriage Certificates: For spousal and family visa applications.
- Police Clearance Certificates: Many countries require police clearance from every country where you've lived. Supporting identification documents may need notarisation.
- Educational Qualifications: Degree certificates, diplomas, and transcripts for skilled migration programs.
- Employment References: Letters from employers confirming your work experience, often needed for skilled worker visas.
- Financial Documents: Bank statements, salary slips, and financial declarations proving you can support yourself.
- Affidavits of Support: Sworn statements from sponsors confirming financial support.
- Medical Certificates: Some countries require notarised medical clearances.
Work Visa Documents
Common work visa programs and their typical notarisation requirements:
- US H-1B / L-1 Visas: Notarised copies of qualifications, employment references, and supporting affidavits.
- Australian Skilled Visas (189/190/491): Notarised copies of qualifications, employment references for skills assessment, and police clearances.
- Canadian Express Entry: Notarised copies of qualifications for Educational Credential Assessment, employment references, and police clearances.
- UAE Work Visas: Attested degree certificates, police clearances, and marriage certificates (if applicable). Full attestation chain required.
- UK Skilled Worker Visa: Notarised copies of qualifications and any required supporting documents.
Family and Partner Visa Documents
- Marriage or civil partnership certificates
- Birth certificates of children
- Statutory declarations regarding relationship history
- Financial evidence showing ability to support family members
- Notarised photographs and other relationship evidence
Student Visa Documents
- Notarised copies of academic transcripts and qualifications
- Acceptance letters (may need certification)
- Financial evidence for tuition and living costs
- Police clearance (for some countries)
Tips for Immigration Notarisation
- Check the exact requirements: Each country and visa type has specific requirements. Check the official immigration authority website or consult an immigration advisor.
- Don't sign documents before your appointment: If a document needs your signature, sign it in front of the Notary Public.
- Bring originals: The Notary Public needs to see original documents to certify copies as true copies.
- Allow time for apostille or legalisation: Budget extra days or weeks after notarisation.
- Keep certified copies: Some applications require multiple notarised copies — mention this when booking.
How to Get Started
Contact Hugh Phelan's office:
- Call (021) 489 7134 or email info@phelansolicitors.com
- Share the document checklist from the immigration authority
- Bring all original documents and valid photo ID
See our document notarisation and certified copies services for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which immigration documents typically need notarisation?
Common requirements include certified copies of passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates, degree certificates, employment references, police clearances, and financial documents. The exact requirements depend on the destination country and visa type.
Is notarisation the same as certification?
Not exactly. "Certified copy" often means a copy certified as a true copy of the original by a Notary Public. "Notarisation" is a broader term covering certification, witnessing signatures, and administering oaths. For immigration purposes, always check what the specific authority requires.
How many notarised copies do I need?
This depends on the application. Some require only one set, others require multiple copies. Check the requirements before your appointment and mention the number of copies needed when booking.
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