Overview
A power of attorney (POA) allows someone to act on your behalf for legal, financial, or personal matters. When you need to use a South African POA in another country, it must first be notarised and then apostilled through the High Court.
Quick Facts
- Apostille Type: High Court (notarised document)
- Processing Time: ~3 business days (apostille only)
- Prerequisite: Document must be notarised first
- Total Time: ~4-5 business days including notarisation
Types of Power of Attorney
General Power of Attorney
Grants broad authority to act on your behalf for various matters. Often used when emigrating or living abroad long-term.
Special Power of Attorney
Grants authority for a specific purpose or transaction, such as:
- Selling property in South Africa while you're abroad
- Managing a specific bank account
- Signing documents for a particular transaction
- Representing you in specific legal proceedings
Why High Court Apostille?
Powers of attorney are private documents, not government-issued. They must be:
- Drafted - Either by you or a legal professional
- Notarised - Signed before a South African Notary Public
- Apostilled - Authenticated by the High Court
This is different from government documents (birth certificates, police clearances) which go through DIRCO.
The Process
Draft the Power of Attorney
We can draft your POA according to your requirements, or notarise a document you provide. Ensure it meets the destination country's requirements.
Notarisation
You must sign the POA in the presence of our Notary Public with your valid ID. Same-day service available.
High Court Submission
The notarised POA is submitted to the High Court for apostille authentication.
Collection & Delivery
Your apostilled POA is collected and delivered to you. Ready for international use.
Common Uses
- Property transactions - Selling or buying property while abroad
- Banking matters - Managing South African accounts from overseas
- Business representation - Acting on behalf of a company
- Legal proceedings - Representation in court matters
- Estate administration - Managing deceased estates
- Vehicle sales - Transferring vehicle ownership
Important Considerations
You Must Sign in Person
The person granting the power of attorney (the "principal") must sign the document in person before the Notary Public. We cannot notarise documents signed elsewhere. Mobile notary services available across Gauteng.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a power of attorney need to be notarised?
Yes, for international use. A POA must be notarised by a South African Notary Public before it can be apostilled. Notarisation confirms your identity and that you signed voluntarily.
How long does the whole process take?
Notarisation is same-day. High Court apostille takes approximately 3 business days. Total turnaround: about 4-5 business days from signing.
Can I sign a POA from abroad?
If you're already abroad, you'll need to sign before a Notary Public in that country or at the South African embassy/consulate. The document can then be apostilled in the country where it was signed.
What ID do I need to bring?
Bring your original valid ID - South African Smart ID card, valid passport, or driver's licence. Expired IDs are not accepted.
Can you draft the power of attorney for me?
Yes. Our notary can draft general and special powers of attorney according to your requirements. Please provide details of what powers you want to grant and to whom.