How to Issue a Power of Attorney to a Lawyer in Türkiye

A Power of Attorney (vekaletname) is one of the most crucial legal instruments in Türkiye, especially for foreign nationals who cannot always be present in person to handle their legal or administrative matters.

Whether it involves purchasing real estate, managing inheritance proceedings, or applying for Turkish citizenship, a properly prepared power of attorney ensures that your attorney can act on your behalf without interruption.

At Bayraktar Attorneys, we frequently assist foreign clients with issuing valid powers of attorney both in Türkiye and abroad. However, it is important to understand that every single word in a Turkish POA is critical.

If even one required authority is missing or not clearly stated, the attorney may be unable to complete the process on your behalf.

What Is a Power of Attorney in Türkiye?

Legally defined under Article 502 of the Turkish Code of Obligations, a power of attorney is a written contract in which one person (the principal) authorizes another person (the agent, usually an attorney) to act on their behalf.

It must be notarized to be valid. Without notarial approval, a POA will not be recognized by courts, public authorities, or banks in Türkiye.

A POA may be general, granting broad powers across different legal fields, or special, limited to a specific matter such as a property purchase or a lawsuit. It may also be time-limited or open-ended, depending on the needs of the client.

Why Every Word Matters

In Türkiye, powers of attorney are not automatically “catch-all” documents.
For example:

• A POA that authorizes your lawyer to purchase a propertymay not allow them to sell itunless this power is explicitly stated.

• If you want your attorney to file and follow a divorce case, the wording must specifically grant authority for family law litigation.

• To handle banking transactions, the POA must explicitly include powers related to banking and finance.

If the relevant authority is not expressly written, the attorney cannot perform that act — even if you personally intended them to. This is why professional drafting is essential.

Required Information for a Power of Attorney

When issuing a POA in Türkiye, the following details are mandatory:

• Full name, Turkish ID or passport number, and contact informationof both the principal and the attorney.

• Two biometric photographs(taken within the last six months).

• A clear list of the powers granted.

• If the POA is time-limited, the start and end dateof authority.

The notary verifies all documents and ensures the principal understands the scope of authority.

Types of Powers of Attorney

General Power of Attorney

Gives the attorney authority to act across a wide range of legal and administrative matters.

Special Power of Attorney

Grants authority for a specific transaction (for example, filing a lawsuit, selling a property, or representing you in immigration proceedings).

Time-Limited vs. Unlimited POA

• Time-limited: Valid only for a defined period (e.g., six months or one year).

• Unlimited: No expiry unless revoked. Turkish case law, however, often recognizes a default limit of 10 years.

Issuing a POA from Abroad

If you are not in Türkiye, you can still issue a valid POA through:

1. The Turkish Consulatein your country.

   • Book an appointment online or by phone.

   • If you do not speak Turkish, a sworn translator must be present.

   • You may request a draft from us in advance to take to your appointment.

2. Foreign Notary + Apostille(for countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention).

   • The POA must then be translated into Turkish and notarized in Türkiye.

Special Cases

• Illiterate Clients: If the principal cannot read or write, Turkish Notary Law Article 87 requires the presence of two witnesses.

• Citizenship & Immigration: The POA must explicitly include powers for residence permit or citizenship applications.

• Inheritance & Property Transfers: To handle inheritance, the POA must state authority for “inheritance declaration, property transfer, and tax clearance procedures.”

Practical Advice

Before issuing a POA:

• Decide exactly which actions you want your attorney to perform.

• Ensure that all intended powers are written word-for-wordin the document.

• Always keep a copy of your notarized POA.

At Bayraktar Attorneys, we prepare detailed drafts tailored to your case to ensure that your rights are fully protected and that your attorney will never face rejection by a notary, court, or government office.

Also Read; Power of attorney issued abroad for use in Turkey

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Power of Attorney in Türkiye

Do I have to be in Türkiye to issue a Power of Attorney?
No. If you are abroad, you can issue a Power of Attorney at a Turkish Consulate. The document will be valid in Türkiye once issued. Alternatively, it can be arranged via foreign notaries if apostilled under the Hague Convention, but Turkish consulate-issued documents are always the safest.

Can a Power of Attorney be given by mail or online?
No. Under Turkish law, a POA must be signed in person before a notary or at a Turkish Consulate. Online or postal POAs are not accepted.

Do I need a translator if I do not speak Turkish?
Yes. If you do not speak Turkish, you must have a sworn Turkish translator present during the notary process to ensure you fully understand the contents of the document.

Can I limit the scope of the Power of Attorney?
Yes. You can issue a special (limited) Power of Attorney that authorizes your attorney only for specific legal actions (e.g., buying a property, applying for a residence permit, or filing a lawsuit).

What happens if the Power of Attorney does not include a required authority?
In Türkiye, every action must be explicitly written in the POA. If a required authorization is missing, your lawyer will not be able to carry out that action. This is why drafting the POA with a legal professional is crucial.

How long is a Power of Attorney valid in Türkiye?
If no time limit is specified, it is considered valid indefinitely. However, you can set a specific duration when issuing the document. You can also revoke it anytime through a notary.

What documents are needed to issue a Power of Attorney in Türkiye?
You need your original passport (and translation if not in Latin letters), biometric photos (usually two), and the lawyer’s full name and Turkish identity number.

Can I revoke a Power of Attorney after issuing it?
Yes. You can cancel a POA anytime at a Turkish notary. After revoking, you should notify your lawyer and relevant institutions to ensure it is no longer used.

Also Read; Cost of power of attorney in Turkey

Conclusion

Issuing a power of attorney in Türkiye is a straightforward process if handled correctly, but a small omission in wording can lead to costly delays. For foreign nationals, this risk is especially high. Our firm ensures that your POA covers every necessary legal action so your case can proceed smoothly.

If you plan to grant a power of attorney in Türkiye, or if you require one from abroad, contact us to prepare a tailor-made draft that guarantees full legal recognition.