Family and property abroad
A power of attorney for property back home, signed in New Jersey
Selling a flat in Mumbai, an apartment in São Paulo or land in Batangas from here usually takes a power of attorney. There are two ways to sign it: in front of a US notary with an apostille, or at your country's consulate. Which one works depends on the country and the job.
The two routes
| Route | How it works |
|---|---|
| US notary + apostille | You sign in front of a New Jersey notary, then the State adds an apostille ($25, or $40 expedited; standard takes about 12 to 20 business days). Every country below is in the Apostille Convention. (NJ apostille, HCCH) |
| Your country's consulate | You sign at the consulate in New York (or Newark for Portugal). Some countries need this route for property deeds. |
By country
- India: apostille works; stamp it in India within 3 months of arrival
- Brazil: for a property sale, the consulate is usually the safer route
- Philippines: apostille, or an SPA at the consulate in New York
- South Korea: apostille plus Korean translation, or a consulate-certified POA
- Portugal: apostille plus a certified Portuguese translation
Before you sign anything
Ask the person or lawyer back home who will use the document exactly what they need. A lawyer in that country should prepare or approve the wording. We notarize, arrange the apostille and translation, and ship it tracked. We don't draft powers of attorney or give legal advice.
All countries · Apostille services · Certified translation · Mobile notary
General information, checked November 2026. Not legal advice. MCC Solutions is not a law firm.
Questions
Can a US notary notarize a power of attorney for use in another country?
Yes. The document then needs an apostille from the State of New Jersey to be accepted in countries that are in the Apostille Convention.
How long does a New Jersey apostille take?
About 12 to 20 business days standard, or faster with the $40 expedited service, according to the State's portal.
Who writes the power of attorney?
A lawyer in the country where it will be used, ideally. Each country has its own wording rules, especially for selling property.