Can’t be in Spain but need to sign a property sale? Want to authorize a relative or lawyer to act on your behalf? The legal answer is simple: you need a power of attorney.
At Legal Allies, we assist people daily who live abroad—or simply can’t attend certain procedures in person—and need to delegate securely.
Here’s everything you need to know about powers of attorney in Spain: what they are, the main types, when you need one, and how to grant one easily (even from abroad).
What Is a Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney is a notarized document by which you authorize another person to legally act on your behalf for one or more specific matters.
It’s like giving someone a “legal key” to sign, manage, or represent you—with full validity under Spanish law.
What Are the Most Common Types of Power of Attorney?
1. General Power of Attorney
This allows the authorized person to act broadly on your behalf in various legal, administrative, or financial matters.
Example: Authorizing someone to represent you before tax authorities, banks, courts, or notaries.
Caution: This grants wide authority, so only give it to someone you fully trust.
2. Special Power of Attorney
This is limited to a specific action: selling a property, handling a visa application, accepting an inheritance, conducting a bank transaction, etc.
Recommended if you only need to delegate a specific task.
3. Power of Attorney for Litigation
Allows a lawyer and court agent to represent you in legal proceedings in Spain.
Commonly used for:
- Civil or labor lawsuits
- Insurance claims
- Appeals in immigration cases
At Legal Allies, we handle this daily to help clients avoid court appearances.
4. Preventive Power of Attorney
Granted so someone can act on your behalf if you lose legal capacity (due to illness, accident, or dementia). Often included in estate planning or wills.
When Do You Need a Power of Attorney?
Some common cases include:
- You’re a foreign national buying or selling property in Spain from abroad.
- You need a relative to handle procedures while you’re working or studying abroad.
- You’re going through a divorce and can’t attend court.
- You’re managing an inheritance from outside Spain.
- You’re self-employed and need someone to represent you before the Tax Agency.
In all these situations, Legal Allies can help you draft and register your power of attorney correctly.
How to Grant a Power of Attorney
Step 1: Choose the Type
General or special? For what purpose? For how long? We’ll help you choose the best option for your case.
Step 2: Sign Before a Notary or Consulate
If you’re in Spain, sign it at any notary’s office.
If you’re abroad, you can do it at a Spanish consulate or before a local notary (with legalization or Hague Apostille).
Step 3: Deliver the Document to the Representative
The authorized person must have the original or an official copy. In some cases, a certified electronic copy is accepted.
How Much Does It Cost?
Fees vary, but generally:
- Special or simple power: €40 to €60
- General power: around €80 or more
- From abroad: additional legalization or translation fees may apply
At Legal Allies, we assist in drafting, translating (if needed), and presenting the document to the notary or consulate.
Can You Revoke a Power of Attorney?
Yes. You can cancel it at any time, even before the expiry date. Simply visit a notary and sign a revocation document.
Legal Allies Tip: Inform your representative immediately upon revocation and request the return of the original document.
Real-Life Examples
- Luisa, from Argentina, sold her apartment in Valencia from Buenos Aires using a special power of attorney granted at the Spanish consulate. We drafted it, coordinated with the notary, and the process was smooth.
- Jonas, a Swedish citizen, authorized his Spanish lawyer with a litigation power of attorney and avoided traveling for a lawsuit over a breached contract. Result: case won without leaving his country.
A power of attorney is a powerful legal tool. It lets you act from anywhere, saves time, avoids travel, and keeps your legal affairs moving.
At Legal Allies, we draft, translate, and process your power of attorney securely and with personalized support. If you can’t be there in person, at least you can be represented—legally.
