Power of Attorney for Brazilians Living Abroad

A Power of Attorney (Procuração) is a legal document that authorises another person to act on your behalf in Brazil. For Brazilians living overseas, it is often the most practical solution for resolving legal matters without needing to travel.

What can it be used for?

A Power of Attorney can authorise another person to carry out a wide range of acts on your behalf in Brazil, including:

• Buying, selling or managing property
• Operating bank accounts
• Representing you in court proceedings
• Signing contracts
• Managing inheritance and probate matters
• Registering a marriage or divorce
• Renewing documents

How to make a Power of Attorney from overseas

The most common process for Brazilians overseas is through the Brazilian consulate in the country where they live. The process generally involves:

1. 1

   Book a consular appointment

   Contact the nearest Brazilian consulate to book an appointment for the preparation of a Power of Attorney.

2. 2

   Prepare the required documents

   You will typically need: a valid Brazilian passport, full details of the person you are appointing (name, CPF, address) and a clear description of the powers you wish to grant.

3. 3

   Sign before the consul

   The Power of Attorney is prepared and signed in the presence of the consul, who authenticates the document.

4. 4

   Apostille or legalisation

   Depending on the country where it was prepared, an Apostille under the Hague Convention may be required for the document to be accepted in Brazil.

Important points to consider

• The Power of Attorney must be specific about the powers granted — generic powers may be refused by notaries or financial institutions.
• Check whether the country where you live is a signatory to the Hague Convention to determine whether an Apostille is sufficient or whether consular legalisation is required.
• Some acts, such as selling property, require a Power of Attorney with specific powers and a defined expiry date.
• The person you appoint must be someone you trust, as they will have legal authority to act on your behalf.