Certified copies in Cork
Certified copies in Cork.
Need a certified copy of a passport, certificate or qualification? David Sweeney offers notarial appointments at Sweeney Solicitors, 15 South Terrace, Cork. Bring the receiving organisation’s instructions so the office can confirm the certification you need.
What is a certified copy?
A certified copy is a copy checked against an original and certified as a true copy. The receiving organisation decides what form of certification it will accept. A scan or ordinary photocopy is not automatically a certified copy.
Certified passport copies and citizenship documents
If you have been asked for a certified copy of your passport, bring the original passport and the request specifying which pages are needed. For citizenship applications, follow the current application checklist: a request for a certified copy is not the same as applying for or renewing a passport. The office can discuss the certification requested, rather than decide the outcome of an application.
Certificates, qualifications and other originals
Tell the office whether your request concerns a birth or marriage certificate, qualification or another document. Check whether the recipient wants a certified copy or an official certificate issued by the relevant authority. These are different documents, and a certified photocopy may not meet a request for an official replacement certificate.
Check the wording before your visit
Send the office a brief description of the request first. Does the recipient specify a Notary Public, particular certificate wording, every page of a document, or a particular number of copies? Getting those details in advance helps the office assess the work.
An example of a useful enquiry
“An organisation overseas has asked for a notarised copy of my qualification. I have the original and their instructions. Can we discuss what you need to see?” Include the destination and your deadline, without adding sensitive identification numbers.
Can a notary certify a copy for an Irish citizenship application?
Irish Immigration lists Notaries Public among the people who may certify copies. Check the instructions for your particular application and bring the original documents. Certification does not confirm eligibility for citizenship.
Can you certify only the photo page of my passport?
Follow the recipient’s instructions. It may ask for the photo page, specified pages or the whole passport. Tell the office what is requested and how many certified copies you need.
Can I bring a scan instead of the original?
Ask the office before booking. Do not assume that a scan will meet the requirements for certifying a copy of an original.
Is a certified copy the same as an apostille?
No. An apostille is a separate authentication process. If your copy is for overseas use, confirm the recipient’s requirements before arranging the next step.
What will it cost?
The office needs to know the documents and certification requested before discussing the fee. Confirm the appointment and fee before travelling.
FURTHER GUIDANCE
Go to the source.
The immigration guidance is specific to its own application process. Follow the instructions of the organisation receiving your document.