Making a power of attorney in the UK for use abroad

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

Agree the powers with the recipient first

Start with the institution or lawyer in the destination country: what must the representative do, which format is accepted and whether special wording is needed. Collecting a certificate and selling property require different powers.

Obtain a draft with exact names, identification details, the relevant asset, duration and any right to delegate. Discuss authority to receive money and sign contracts separately. Do not grant the broadest possible powers merely because a template is convenient. A witnessed signature and apostille cannot remedy a missing power.

Choose the consular or British route

The destination country's consulate may perform notarial acts authorised by its law. For example, Ukraine's MFA explains consular notarisation ↗, while Russia's Consular Department explains powers of attorney ↗. Their competence is limited; certifying a power of attorney does not mean the consul can execute the underlying property transaction.

Alternatively, use a UK notary if the foreign recipient accepts that format. In England and Wales, consult the Faculty Office register ↗. Scotland and Northern Ireland have different rules and registers. Establish whether a notary is required or a solicitor is acceptable.

Check authentication and translation

FCDO can apostille an eligible British notarial certification ↗. However, the receiving authority determines whether it requires an apostille, paper original, translation or additional consular legalisation. It is not possible to promise that any UK notary's document with an apostille will satisfy every overseas bank.

Agree the sequence: wording → signature before the authorised person → apostille if necessary → translation of the required elements → dispatch. Do not sign beforehand if your signature must be witnessed in person. Check consular appointment requirements and any preliminary electronic application.

Budget for the process and control the document

Request separate prices for drafting, certification, copies, apostille, translation and delivery. Check each stage's timing and payment method. Retain a scan of the completed package and delivery tracking; ask whether a copy is usable pending the original.

Read the entire document in a language you understand and verify the details before signing. If plans change, establish how to revoke it and notify the representative and relevant institutions. The Russian Consular Department's guidance ↗ specifically addresses notifying the representative of cancellation. For another country, check its register and rules: destroying your own copy does not necessarily terminate authority.