For many foreign buyers, traveling to Spain to complete a property purchase isn’t always feasible. That’s where a Power of Attorney (POA) comes in — a legal document allowing a trusted person (usually a lawyer) to act on your behalf. This guide explains how POAs work in Spain, when you need one, and how to set it up safely.
🤔 What Is a Power of Attorney (POA)?
A POA is a legal authorization giving someone else the right to act for you in specific matters. For property buyers, this usually means:
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Signing the purchase contract
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Handling bank and mortgage paperwork
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Attending the notary for the deed signing
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Registering the property with the Land Registry
📋 Why Use a POA When Buying Property in Spain?
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✈️ Avoid international travel
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⏰ Save time and speed up the closing process
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🛡️ Ensure a local expert handles complex legal steps
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🔒 Protect your interests with a trusted professional
📝 How to Grant a POA for Property Transactions
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Choose a trusted representative — usually a bilingual Spanish lawyer or authorized agent.
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Draft the POA document specifying powers granted (signing contracts, handling payments, etc.).
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Sign the POA before a notary in your home country or at the Spanish consulate.
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Legalize or apostille the document as required by Spanish authorities.
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Translate the POA into Spanish (official sworn translation).
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Send the POA to your lawyer in Spain for use during the transaction.
⚠️ Important Considerations
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The POA must be specific and limited to your property purchase to avoid misuse.
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You can revoke or amend the POA anytime before the transaction is complete.
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Always use bilingual legal professionals familiar with Spanish property law.
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Keep copies of all POA documentation for your records.
🏛️ When Is a POA Necessary?
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If you cannot travel to Spain for the signing of the public deed (escritura).
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When using a mortgage broker or bank lawyer to finalize financing.
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For property sales or transfers if the owner is abroad.
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To handle any unexpected legal or administrative issues post-sale.
🤝 How Borderless Lawyers Help
We provide full POA services for foreign buyers:
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Drafting and notarizing POA documents compliant with Spanish law
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Arranging legalization/apostille and sworn translation
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Acting on your behalf for contract signing, bank dealings, and closing
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Keeping you informed throughout the process with clear communication
👉 Want to buy property in Spain without flying over? Contact us to set up your Power of Attorney today.