Consular power of attorney (poder) — authorize someone back home (2026)
How to grant a power of attorney (poder) at your home-country consulate in the US so a trusted person can sell property, handle legal matters, or represent you back home. Documents, types, cost, and how it differs from a US POA.
Consular power of attorney (poder)
A consular power of attorney — poder — lets you authorize a trusted person back home to act for you while you live in the United States: to sell or manage property, handle a bank or inheritance matter, or represent you in a legal proceeding in your home country. Because it is used abroad under your home country’s law, you sign it at your consulate, not before a US notary. This page explains the types, what you need, and the steps.
General vs. special poder
| Type | What it covers | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Poder general | Broad authority over many matters | When one person needs to handle most of your affairs back home |
| Poder especial / limitado | Only the specific act(s) you list | The safer, more common choice — e.g., to sell one specific property |
A narrower special power limits risk, because the person can only do exactly what you authorize.
What you typically need
- A valid ID or passport.
- The full legal name and details of the person you authorize (the apoderado).
- A clear description of the powers you are granting (and, often, the property or matter involved).
- The consular fee (varies by country, commonly ~$30-$80).
Some consulates ask you to bring the drafted text of the poder; others prepare it at the appointment. Confirm with your consulate first.
How to grant one (general steps)
- Find your consulate for the US state where you live.
- Book an appointment (many consulates require one).
- Prepare the details — who the apoderado is, exactly what they may do.
- Sign before the consular officer, who certifies your identity and signature.
- Pay the fee and receive the document, then send it to your apoderado back home (some countries also require local registration).
Important to know
- A consular poder is for use in your home country — it is not a US power of attorney.
- Powers of attorney can usually be revoked; ask your consulate how.
- For the exact scope and wording, especially for property or inheritance, consider consulting a notary or attorney in your home country.
Related information
Official source: check your own country’s consulate website for exact poder requirements and fees.
Last verified: 2026-06-04.
General procedural information, not legal advice. Power-of-attorney rules and formalities vary by country and consulate. Confirm requirements with your consulate and consult a notary or attorney about the document’s scope.
Frequently asked questions
What is a consular power of attorney (poder)?
What's the difference between a general and a special power of attorney?
What do I need to grant one at the consulate?
Is a consular poder the same as a US power of attorney?
The rules change. Hear about it first.
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General information, not legal advice. MigrantUSA is an independent publisher and is not a law firm; using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship, and this content is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific situation. US federal, state, and local government procedures, fees, and forms change. Always verify current details directly with the relevant agency before acting. For immigration, tax, or other legal matters specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney or BIA-accredited representative.