Most heirs do not live in Tenerife, so travelling to the island just to sign inheritance documents is inconvenient and expensive. A Power of Attorney (POA) allows a lawyer or trusted person to handle everything on your behalf. Here’s how it works in simple terms.
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney (Poder Notarial) is a legal document that gives someone permission to act for you in Spain. It is commonly used for inheritance cases so the process can continue quickly without you being present.
What the POA Normally Allows
- Sign the inheritance deed
- Pay any taxes or fees
- Deal with banks
- Collect certificates and documents
- Register the property in your name
- Transfer utilities
It can also include permission to sell the property, but only if you request this specifically.
How to Make a Power of Attorney Abroad
- Visit a notary in your home country
- Sign the POA in front of them
- Get an Apostille stamp (international certification)
- Send it to Tenerife
Some countries also allow you to sign the POA at a Spanish Consulate.
Once received, your lawyer can complete the entire inheritance process without you needing to travel.
Leave a Reply