VIF Form
Declaration of Verification of Identity
Welcome to Wharf Notaries. The VIF Form is a Declaration of Verification of Identity required by non-Irish beneficial owners in Irish companies and industrial and provident societies. This essential legal document is mandatory if you do not possess a PPSN (Irish Personal Public Service Number). Our team of professional and expert notaries is here to assist you with the notarisation process. When completing a VIF Form from outside Ireland, it must be signed in the presence of a practising notary public. Notarisation confirms that the signatory has been accurately identified and that the signed form can be relied upon. This process ensures that the RBO (Central Register of Beneficial Ownership of Companies and Industrial and Provident Societies) accepts it as a legitimate legal document. Below, you’ll find essential information about the VIF Form and our streamlined procedure for its notarisation.
What is a VIF Form?
The VIF Form, officially known as Form VIF, is a document required by regulatory authorities for reporting significant beneficial ownership in a company. Specifically used in Ireland, it is necessary for those without a PPSN to apply for an RBO Transaction Number.
The form should include key details about the individual holding substantial interests in the company:
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- Nationality
- Place of Residence
- Signature
Notarising a VIF Form
If you are signing your Form VIF in the UK, notarisation is required. The Irish authorities will not accept digital or electronic signatures. You must visit a notary public to sign the Form VIF, during which the notary will verify your identity, witness your signature, and complete the relevant fields of the form.
Do You Need an Apostille for a VIF Form?
Although both the UK and Ireland are contracting members of the Hague Apostille Convention, if the VIF Form is signed in the UK, the Irish authorities will accept it without requiring an apostille.
Process for Notarising and Legalising a VIF Form
The process for notarising a VIF Form typically involves the following steps:
- Preparation of the Form: Ensure Part A of the VIF Form is accurately completed at the time of signing.
- Appointment with a Notary Public: Schedule an appointment with one of our qualified notaries in London Victoria, Canary Wharf, or Surrey.
- Verification of Identities: Present a valid form of ID, such as a passport, during the appointment to confirm your identity.
- Notarisation: The notary will verify the document’s authenticity and witness the signing. They will then complete Part C of the form and return it to you.
- Document Upload: After notarisation, you can upload your VIF Form to the RBO portal. You will receive an RBO Transaction Number, which can be used for future beneficial ownership filings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About VIF Form
What is a VIF Form?
The VIF Form, or Declaration of Verification of Identity, is a legal document required by non-Irish beneficial owners in Irish companies. It is necessary for individuals who do not possess a PPSN (Irish Personal Public Service Number) when applying for an RBO Transaction Number.
Why do I need a notary public for the VIF Form?
A notary public is required to verify your identity and witness your signature on the VIF Form. This ensures that the form is legitimate and can be accepted by the RBO (Central Register of Beneficial Ownership of Companies and Industrial and Provident Societies).
Can I sign the VIF Form electronically?
No, the Irish authorities do not accept digital or electronic signatures for the VIF Form. You must sign it in person in the presence of a practising notary public.
What identification do I need to bring to the notary public?
You will need to present a valid form of identification, such as a passport, to verify your identity when signing the VIF Form.
Do I need an apostille for my VIF Form?
No, if the VIF Form is signed in the UK, the Irish authorities will accept it without requiring an apostille, as both countries are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.
How do I prepare for the notarisation of my VIF Form?
Ensure that Part A of the VIF Form is correctly filled out with accurate information before your appointment with the notary public. This will help streamline the notarisation process.
Where can I schedule an appointment for notarisation?
You can schedule an appointment with our qualified notaries at our locations in London Victoria, Canary Wharf, or Surrey. Contact us today to arrange a suitable time.
What happens after my VIF Form is notarised?
Once your VIF Form is notarised, you can upload it to the RBO portal. You will then receive an RBO Transaction Number, which can be used for future beneficial ownership filings.