Power of Attorney for Foreigners in Turkey: A Complete Guide to Issuing POAs Remotely or Locally

Introduction

If you’re a foreigner planning to establish a business, buy property, or handle legal matters in Turkey without being physically present, you will likely need a power of attorney in Turkey. This legal document allows someone else to act on your behalf, enabling you to navigate Turkish bureaucracy efficiently. Whether issued in Turkey at a local notary or abroad through consulates, understanding the process is essential for ensuring your transactions proceed smoothly.

This article explores everything you need to know about power of attorney in Turkey, including its uses, legal requirements, and practical tips for foreigners. It also covers crucial considerations such as language, notarization, and translation requirements.

What Is a Power of Attorney in Turkey?

power of attorney (POA) is a legal document granting authority to another person (the attorney-in-fact) to perform certain tasks on your behalf. In Turkey, POAs are commonly used for:

POAs can be limited to a specific transaction or general in nature, allowing the representative to act broadly on your behalf.

Why Foreigners Need a Power of Attorney in Turkey

Foreign nationals may need a POA for several reasons:

  • They are not physically present in Turkey
  • They are unfamiliar with the local language and legal system
  • They need to authorize a lawyer, accountant, or consultant to act in their stead

One common example is when a foreign entrepreneur initiates company setup in Turkey but cannot attend the notary office in person.

Local vs. International Issuance: Which Should You Choose?

Foreigners can issue a POA in two main ways:

1. Issuing POA in Turkey

You can personally visit one of the official notaries in Turkey and grant a POA on-site. This method is fast and generally completed within the same day.

Requirements:

  • Valid passport
  • Turkish translation of the passport (notarized)
  • Presence of a sworn translator if you do not speak Turkish

A list of notaries can be found at the Notaries Union of Turkey.

This is the most straightforward option if you are already in Turkey or plan to visit for business or legal purposes.

2. Issuing POA Abroad

If you’re not in Turkey, you can issue a POA via:

  • Turkish consulates in your country (recommended)
  • Foreign notaries followed by apostille and notarized translation

For apostille in Turkey please read our earlier article.

Steps:

  1. Draft the POA text in Turkish (recommended by your Turkish lawyer)
  2. Sign before a local notary
  3. Apostille the document (if your country is part of the Hague Convention)
  4. Translate the apostilled POA into Turkish using certified translation services in Turkey
  5. Notarize the translation in Turkey

Who Can Receive the POA?

You can issue a POA to:

  • A lawyer to represent you in court, file applications, or perform real estate or corporate tasks
  • A real estate agent or consultant to buy or sell property
  • A relative or friend if legally permissible

For legal matters, using an English Speaking Lawyer in Turkey is highly advised to avoid misinterpretation of your rights and obligations.

Common Types of POAs for Foreigners

1. Real Estate POA

Empowers someone to buy/sell property, obtain title deeds, and manage tax payments.

2. Corporate POA

Used for company registration in Turkey, tax office dealings, trade registry filings, and social security matters.

3. Litigation POA

Grants authority to a lawyer to represent you before Turkish courts or administrative authorities.

4. Banking POA

Authorizes your representative to open or manage bank accounts, especially needed for expats or businesspeople.

Legal Considerations and Language Requirements

  • All POAs must be in Turkish to be valid in Turkish institutions.
  • If the foreigner does not speak Turkish, a sworn translator must be present at the notary.
  • The notary records both the document and the translation session.
  • All foreign-issued POAs must be supported by translation services in Turkey for acceptance.

To find certified translators, visit https://www.istanbul.gov.tr or your local consulate’s service list.

Where Is the POA Registered?

In Turkey, all notarized POAs are stored digitally and linked to your ID or passport. The notary automatically registers it in the national system. When issuing abroad, the translated and notarized version must be manually submitted to relevant Turkish institutions.

You can confirm notary regulations and sample POA formats via the Turkish government’s legal affairs portal: https://www.adalet.gov.tr.

Typical Costs

  • Notarization: 2000-3000 TRY (depending on content)
  • Sworn translator (per page): 100 – 300 TRY
  • Apostille (if abroad): Varies by country
  • Translation & notarization (abroad POA): Approx. 1500 – 3000 TRY equivalent

Some of these costs may be waived or discounted in certain cases (e.g., first-time investors or via special incentive zones).

Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Sending documents without apostille: POAs issued abroad without apostille are invalid.
  2. Incorrect language: All POAs must be in Turkish, even if created abroad.
  3. Unclear scope: A vague POA can cause delays or be rejected. Always consult a legal expert.
  4. Ignoring translation requirements: Unofficial translations are not accepted.

Benefits of Using a Lawyer

Having an experienced English Speaking Lawyer in Turkey guide you ensures:

  • Legally valid drafting of POA
  • Proper submission to tax offices, courts, or land registry
  • No delays or document rejection

They can also act as your official representative under the POA, streamlining the entire process.

Summary Checklist

Issuing in Turkey:

  • Visit local notary
  • Bring passport and certified Turkish translation
  • Use sworn translator

Issuing abroad:

  • Draft Turkish POA
  • Sign at local notary
  • Get apostille
  • Translate + notarize in Turkey

Always:

  • Specify authority clearly
  • Ensure translation accuracy
  • Work with legal professionals

Conclusion

A valid and well-prepared power of attorney in Turkey can save you time, costs, and legal complications. Whether you’re handling a property transaction, pursuing litigation, or initiating company setup in Turkey, a POA is a critical tool. Foreigners benefit most when supported by certified translation services in Turkey, trusted notaries, and legal counsel. With the right setup, acting from abroad becomes just as effective as being on-site.

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