Frequently asked questions
Does my foreign power of attorney need a sworn translation?
Yes, if it is to take effect before a Spanish notary, registry or court and is written in another language. The sworn translation is the format generally accepted in those cases.
Does the power of attorney have to be apostilled?
Yes, with few exceptions. A power of attorney granted abroad must carry an apostille or consular legalisation to be effective in Spain. The apostille is part of the document and is translated too.
Are the notarial endorsements and stamps translated?
Yes. The sworn translation reproduces the complete document: the body of the power of attorney, the appearance clause, the endorsements, the marginal notes, the stamps and the signatures. Leaving any of them out would break the faithfulness required.
Will the notary accept the signed PDF?
Qualified electronic signatures by sworn translators have been accepted since 2020, but some notaries still ask for the paper copy. Check with yours and, if you need it, add postal delivery.
