The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is responsible for authenticating documents.
Authentication VS Apostille
When legalizing documents in Ireland, you have two options: authentication or apostille. You must request authentication because the apostille is part of the Hague Convention Treaty of 1963, which China does not recognize. So, remember: you need your police certificate to be authenticated, not apostilled. The Department of Foreign affairs has a dedicated Legalization Office
What you need to gather:
- The document(s) you need authenticating – ensure you have all your China visa-related documents to save on time and/or courier fees.
- A cover letter detailing why you need authentication (China work visa). The letter should also include your name, address, contact number, email, and return address.
Fees: The Department charges €40 per document for authentication (return postage included.) Payment can be made by bank draft, postal order, credit/debit card, or another method. If paying by credit/debit card, they will contact you at the number you provide, so make sure it’s current. Bank drafts and postal orders should be made payable to the Department of Foreign Affairs: no cash or Amex.
HOW TO APPLY FOR AUTHENTICATION:
Here, you have three options:
- in person,
- by courier mail,
- drop off in person and pick up later–or return by mail.
Walk-ins are accepted at the Cork and Dublin offices on a restricted timeline. Check for details on the Legalization Office link above. You can have your documents back within half an hour instead of seven days (if you opt for a courier mail-in service). This is the fastest way to authenticate documents in Ireland.
If you are near one of the two offices but cannot visit during their authentication service hours, you can drop off your documents, cover letter, and payment in person at some other time. Then, either come back to pick them up when advised – or have the lot returned to you by mail.
What to do if you are abroad and need documents authenticated in Ireland?
If you happen to be living abroad and need to have your documents authenticated in Ireland, you can also use the services of a legalization agency. These agencies can act on your behalf and gather all the necessary stamps and signatures. Yes, it will cost you a little more, but it’s convenient and will save you time. Apostille.ie
is one of several well-rated agencies.
When authenticating your documents in Ireland, it’s essential to clearly explain what they will be used for. For teaching, it’s for the China Working Visa. The department knows the Chinese government’s requirements, so they’ll use the correct wording/stamps/signatures. You will probably be asked why you need the docs authenticated, but if not, don’t forget to mention it!