Powers of attorney for use overseas
So a relative or lawyer overseas can act for you on property, banking or an estate.
When you need one
If a relative or lawyer abroad needs authority to sell or manage your property, run a bank account or handle an inheritance for you, the document giving that authority usually has to be notarised.
What the notary does
Radek identifies you and watches you sign. He then adds a notarial certificate recording your identity and the date of signing. If the country needs it, the document then goes to DFAT for an apostille or authentication.
The form of the power of attorney
Most overseas bodies have their own requirements for a power of attorney, and some will accept only their own form or wording. Before you sign, get the form from the lawyer, notary or bank overseas, or ask them to confirm a draft, and bring it unsigned. We prepare the notarial certificate to suit their requirements. The overseas lawyer or notary advises on the law of their country.
An Australian enduring power of attorney is different
An enduring power of attorney under the Powers of Attorney Act 2014 (Vic) is for decisions in Victoria. It is not usually what an overseas bank or land registry asks for. If you need both, they are separate documents.
Translation and apostille
If the power of attorney is in a foreign language, the notary can still certify your signature, and Radek can explain a Polish document in Polish. The receiving country may need a translation of the notarial certificate, or a bilingual certificate. For Poland, certificates can be prepared in English and Polish.
Common questions
Can’t see your question? Call 1800 776 529 or send us a message.
No. You sign in front of the notary.
Yes. Each person brings their own identification.
The appointment is usually short. An apostille adds DFAT’s processing time.
Book a notary appointment
Tell us about the document and where it is going. We reply within one business day with what it needs and a quote.
What happens next
- Send the form, or email the document.
- We reply within one business day with what is needed and a quote.
- We book a time at our Frankston office.
Phone: 1800 776 529
Email: info@frankstonnotary.com.au
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5:30 pm
Office: 435 Nepean Highway, Frankston VIC 3199. Notarial appointments are at the office only.