Document types
Power of attorneyApostille basics
Also called: POA, proxy, letter of authorisation, mandate.
The document
What it is
A document in which a person authorises someone else to act on their behalf, for example to sell property or deal with an authority.
Usually issued by: You write and sign it; a notary public certifies the signature.
The rule
Can it get an apostille?
Not on its own. It is a private document, so a notary public first certifies it. The apostille then goes on the notary’s certificate.
Article 1 of the Apostille Convention (Hague Conference on Private International Law) lists the public documents it covers: court documents, administrative documents, notarial acts and certificates that an authority places on private documents.
Step by step
How to get an apostille for a power of attorney
- Sign the document in front of a notary public, who adds a certificate confirming the signature.
- Apply for the apostille on the notary’s certificate, in the country where the notary works.
- Check with the office that will receive it whether it also needs a translation.
The office, fee and steps differ by country. Open the guide for the country that issued the document, or check two countries to see whether an apostille works where you need it.
Note: Good to know
- The receiving country may need specific wording, so ask for its requirements before you sign.
Country guides
Offices that list this document
The apostille office in these countries names this kind of document on its own website. Each guide shows the office, fee and steps.
Questions
Questions about a power of attorney
What is a power of attorney?
A document in which a person authorises someone else to act on their behalf, for example to sell property or deal with an authority.
Can a power of attorney get an apostille?
Not on its own. It is a private document, so a notary public first certifies it. The apostille then goes on the notary’s certificate.
How do I get an apostille for a power of attorney?
Sign the document in front of a notary public, who adds a certificate confirming the signature. Apply for the apostille on the notary’s certificate, in the country where the notary works. Check with the office that will receive it whether it also needs a translation.
What does the apostille confirm?
An apostille only confirms the signature, the role of the person who signed and any seal or stamp on the document. It does not confirm what the document says. The office that receives the document decides what it accepts.
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