A power of attorney signed in Thailand for use abroad is generally signed before a Notarial Services Attorney, then authenticated at the Legalization Division of the Department of Consular Affairs, and, if the destination requires it, legalised by that country's embassy in Thailand. The most common reasons for rejection are vague powers, names that do not match the passport, and a language the recipient does not accept. Use the recipient's own form where one exists.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-29 · General information only, not legal advice for your specific case
Common uses
- Selling or transferring property abroad
- Handling an estate, bank accounts or investments overseas
- Authorising a foreign lawyer to litigate or file court papers
- Registering or amending a foreign company
What to include
Many countries require the authority's own form or drafting by a local lawyer. Have the destination lawyer review the draft before you sign.
- Full names as in the passport, passport numbers, nationality and addresses of grantor and attorney-in-fact
- The specific matter, such as the property, title number or account number
- The powers granted (signing, receiving funds, delegation) and their limits
- Duration or expiry date
- Any governing law or form the recipient prescribes
Language and translation
A Thai-language power of attorney must be translated into a language the recipient accepts. A bilingual document in one instrument often avoids a separate translation certification.
If the recipient requires a translation by a sworn translator in its own country, a translation made in Thailand may not be accepted. Ask first.
Authentication sequence
Apostilles become available for Thai documents from 28 February 2027, when the Convention enters into force for Thailand. Until then, use the sequence above.
1. Sign before a Notarial Services Attorney
Bring your original passport; the attorney identifies you and attaches a certificate.
2. Department of Consular Affairs
File at the Legalization Division to authenticate the attorney's signature.
3. Embassy legalisation (if required)
Some countries require their embassy in Thailand to legalise it.
4. Send the original
Use tracked courier and keep a copy.
Alternative: sign at the destination's embassy
Some embassies certify signatures for their own nationals or for documents to be used in their country, which can shorten the chain. Appointments and conditions vary by embassy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Thai Land Office form abroad?
Form Tor Dor 21 is for Thai land offices and is not suited to foreign authorities. Use the recipient's form.
Does the attorney-in-fact need to attend?
Usually not. The grantor signs before the notarial attorney.
Can I sign first and bring it for certification?
No. It must be signed in front of the Notarial Services Attorney.
How long is a power of attorney valid?
It depends on its wording and the recipient's rules; some only accept documents signed within a set period.
What does it cost?
It depends on pages, languages and authentication steps. Please contact our team for a quotation.
Official sources
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