Despite Brexit, the UK remains the most common destination for Irish businesses expanding abroad. Whether you are incorporating a UK subsidiary, registering a branch office, opening a UK bank account, or appointing UK-based directors, various documents will need notarisation. This guide covers the notarial requirements step by step.
When Do You Need Notarised Documents for UK Business Setup?
Common scenarios requiring notarisation include:
- Incorporating a UK company with Irish directors or shareholders
- Registering an Irish company branch in the UK
- Opening a UK business bank account for an Irish entity
- Appointing directors — verifying identity of non-UK directors
- Commercial property transactions in the UK
- Regulatory filings with UK authorities (FCA, Companies House, HMRC)
Step 1: Identify Which Documents Need Notarising
Typical documents include:
- Certified copies of Irish company registration documents (Certificate of Incorporation, Constitution/Articles)
- Board resolutions authorising UK business establishment
- Director identity verification (notarised passport copies)
- Proof of registered office address
- Powers of attorney for UK agents or solicitors
- Specimen signature declarations
Step 2: Prepare Company Documents
Ensure your Irish company’s records are up to date with the CRO (Companies Registration Office). UK banks and Companies House may want to see current CRO filings.
Step 3: Book Notarisation Appointment
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor and Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland, practising from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork. He holds a BCL from UCC and a Diploma in Notarial Law, and is dual-qualified in both Ireland and England & Wales — making him particularly well-placed for Ireland-UK business documentation.
Step 4: Attend Notarisation
At the appointment, Hugh Phelan will:
- Verify the identity of all signing parties
- Certify copies of company documents
- Witness signatures on board resolutions and powers of attorney
- Apply the notarial seal to each document
If multiple directors need to sign, they should all attend the same appointment where possible.
Step 5: Apostille
The UK accepts apostilled documents from Ireland. Submit to: Apostille Office, DFA, Iveagh House, Dublin 2. Cost: €40 per document, 2–5 working days.
Step 6: Send to Your UK Advisors
Use tracked courier. Your UK advisors will then use the authenticated documents for Companies House filings, bank account opening, or other registrations.
Post-Brexit Considerations
Since Brexit, some UK processes have become more document-intensive for Irish businesses:
- UK bank account opening may require additional due diligence documentation
- Companies House may request more evidence of director identity for non-UK residents
- Some UK regulatory bodies have updated their requirements for EU-based companies
Despite these changes, the apostille process remains unchanged — the UK continues to accept apostilles under the Hague Convention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need notarised documents to set up a UK company?
Not always for basic incorporation (which can be done online), but UK banks, landlords, and some regulatory bodies typically require notarised copies of director identification and company documents for non-UK directors.
Has Brexit changed the notarisation requirements?
The core apostille process is unchanged — the UK still accepts Hague Convention apostilles. However, some UK institutions now require additional documentation from EU-based directors and companies.
Can Hugh Phelan help with both Irish and UK legal matters?
Hugh Phelan is dual-qualified in Ireland and England & Wales, making him well-positioned to advise on cross-border documentation between the two jurisdictions.
How long does the whole process take?
From notarisation to receiving apostilled documents back: approximately 7–10 working days. The UK company formation itself can be completed in 1–2 days once documents are received.
Need Notarial Services in Cork?
Contact Hugh Phelan, Solicitor & Notary Public, at East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork for prompt professional service.