When Do You Need a Notary Public?
Most people first encounter the term "notary public" when someone — an employer, a solicitor abroad, a government agency, a bank, or a university — asks them to get a document notarised. The common thread is that the document needs to be used outside Ireland.
Here are the most common reasons people come to Hugh Phelan needing a notary public:
Buying or selling property abroad
You need a notarised power of attorney so someone can act on your behalf at the sale, or you need to certify your identity and financial documents. Especially common for properties in Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and the US.
Immigration, visa, or work permit
Many countries require notarised copies of your passport, birth certificate, degree, background check, or marriage certificate as part of visa or immigration applications.
Setting up or running a company overseas
Corporate documents like board resolutions, articles of association, and shareholder agreements often need notarisation when dealing with foreign jurisdictions or banks abroad.
Getting an apostille
An apostille is a certificate from the Department of Foreign Affairs that verifies your notarised document. You need the document notarised first, then the DFA adds the apostille. Hugh handles both steps.
Overseas study or employment
Universities and employers abroad often need certified true copies of your degrees, diplomas, transcripts, or professional qualifications.
Inheritance, estate, or family matters
Dealing with a relative's estate abroad, renouncing inheritance rights, or providing authenticated family documents for foreign court proceedings.
What to Bring to Your Notary Appointment
Being prepared saves time and ensures everything goes smoothly. Here's your checklist:
- Valid passport — this is the preferred form of identification. A driving licence alone is usually not sufficient for notarial purposes.
- The documents that need to be notarised — originals, not photocopies (unless you specifically need certified copies).
- Any instructions you've received from the party requesting notarisation — email, letter, or form from the foreign authority, solicitor, or institution.
- Contact details of the person or organisation the documents are going to — helpful if Hugh needs to confirm specific requirements.
- Payment method — enquire about fees when booking.
Pro tip: If you're not sure exactly what you need, call Hugh on (021) 489 7134 before your appointment. He can advise you on what to bring and how to prepare, saving you a second trip.
How to Book a Notary Appointment in Cork
Booking is simple. You have three options:
When you call or email, briefly describe what you need — for example: "I need a power of attorney notarised for use in Spain" or "I need certified copies of my passport and degree for a US visa application." This helps Hugh prepare in advance.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
If you've never visited a notary public before, here's exactly what happens:
Identity Verification
Hugh will check your passport (or other valid photo ID) to confirm you are who you say you are. This is a legal requirement.
Document Review
Hugh reviews the documents to ensure they are complete, correct, and suitable for notarisation. If there are issues, he'll advise you on how to fix them.
Explanation
Hugh will explain what he is certifying and ensure you understand the contents and effect of the document you are signing. This is a safeguard for your protection.
Signing & Sealing
You sign the document in Hugh's presence (if required). He then applies his official notarial seal and signature, giving the document its legal status.
Done!
You walk out with your notarised documents. The entire process usually takes 15–45 minutes depending on the complexity of your matter.
About Hugh Phelan — Your Notary in Cork
When you need a notary public, you want someone with the qualifications and experience to get it right first time. Hugh Phelan is:
- Appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland — commissioned for life as a Notary Public
- Dual-qualified solicitor — admitted in both Ireland and England & Wales
- Specialist Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice (Dip.Not.L.)
- Over 20 years of professional experience
- BCL, University College Cork — comprehensive legal education
Hugh's dual qualification in Ireland and England & Wales means he is particularly well-placed to advise on cross-border matters between Ireland and the UK — an increasingly important area since Brexit.
Do I Need a Notary Public or a Commissioner for Oaths?
This is a very common question. The simple answer:
- Documents going abroad? → You need a Notary Public. Only a Notary's seal is recognised internationally.
- Documents staying in Ireland? → A Commissioner for Oaths may be sufficient (any practising solicitor can do this).
Not sure? Call Hugh — he'll tell you honestly whether you need a notary or whether a commissioner for oaths will do. No point paying for something you don't need.
How Long Does Notarisation Take?
Most notarial appointments take between 15 and 45 minutes. Simple matters like certifying a passport copy or witnessing a single signature can be done in 15 minutes. More complex matters — such as preparing a power of attorney for a foreign jurisdiction or notarising multiple corporate documents — may take longer. Hugh will give you a time estimate when you book.
Can I Get Same-Day Notary Service?
Yes. Hugh Phelan understands that many people need documents notarised urgently — whether it's a deadline from a foreign solicitor, a time-sensitive property transaction, or an immigration application with a looming deadline. Same-day appointments are available when his schedule permits. For urgent matters, call the direct mobile on 086 390 7815.