Power of Attorney is a special document that grants the right to someone, an individual specified in the power of attorney, to represent the interests of a natural or legal person.
A power of attorney can be general or specific—granting specific powers or actions. It is advisable to issue a general power of attorney to your children or parents.
A power of attorney has a validity period. This period is specified in the power of attorney. If the term is not indicated, it is usually valid for 1 year. In some countries, this means an indefinite validity of the power of attorney. However, in most countries, for an unlimited-term power of attorney, it is necessary to specify this in the text of the power of attorney.
In some countries, the term of the power of attorney is limited by legislation and does not exceed, for example, 3 years. In other words, a longer term is not possible.
A power of attorney can be executed by a notary, in a consulate (by a consul), in a hospital (by a doctor) if a person cannot leave the hospital due to their condition, or in local self-government bodies (this is possible, for example, in Italy). A power of attorney can also be issued by a legal entity (company) through its director.
A power of attorney from a company to perform actions within the country usually does not require notarization. However, for protection or representation of interests abroad, the power of attorney must be consular or notarized with an apostille or legalization (if there are no agreements between countries on simplified circulation of documents).
The power of attorney includes data about both parties—the attorney and the grantor (passport, dates of birth, personal numbers or codes), the date of drawing up the power of attorney, the powers, and the term of validity of the power of attorney.
For countries that use apostilles—an apostille is required. For other countries—legalization is required.