How to Safeguard Your Legal Rights When Obtaining a Notarized Authorization Abroad?

How to Process a Notarized Power of Attorney Abroad and Protect Your Legal Rights

With the increasing frequency of international exchanges, more and more people are studying, working, or living overseas. As a result, the demand for cross-border services has also grown. For instance, when handling domestic property sales, business registrations, or legal proceedings, it is often necessary to authorize someone else in China to act on your behalf through a notarized power of attorney.

However, for individuals living abroad, properly processing such a document and ensuring its legal validity is an issue that should not be overlooked.

1. Understanding Notarized Powers of Attorney

A notarized power of attorney refers to a formal authorization where one party, due to special circumstances preventing them from personally managing a matter, signs a document authorizing another person to perform specific tasks on their behalf. This document must be verified and certified by a notary office for authenticity and legality.

Notarized documents executed abroad usually require authentication by the Chinese embassy or consulate before they can be legally used within mainland China.

2. Choosing the Right Method of Processing

There are several ways to process a notarized power of attorney while overseas

1. Visiting a Chinese Embassy or Consulate Abroad

If there is a Chinese embassy or consulate in your country, you may directly contact and schedule an appointment for notarial services. This is the most common and reliable method.

For example, in August 2025, the Chinese Embassy in the United States issued a notice reminding Chinese citizens residing in the U.S. that they could use the online passport service system to book notary appointments in advance, saving time and improving efficiency.

2. Local Notary Plus Consular Authentication

In some countries, you may first have the power of attorney notarized at a local law firm or notary office, then submit the document to the Chinese embassy or consulate in that country for consular authentication. This method is suitable for regions where direct Chinese notary services are unavailable.

3. Online Video Notarization Services

In recent years, to facilitate overseas citizens, certain Chinese embassies and consulates have piloted remote video notarization services. Applicants can complete identity verification and signature confirmation via video call.

For instance, in June 2025, the Chinese Consulate General in Sydney, Australia announced the launch of remote video notarization services, which were widely welcomed by the Chinese community.

3. Preparing Required Documents

Regardless of the method chosen, you will need to prepare the following materials

A copy of your valid passport and visa

The original power of attorney preferably prepared in both Chinese and English

A copy of the authorized agent’s ID card

Supporting documents related to the entrusted matters e.g., property deed, business license

A fully completed notarization application form

Please note that requirements may vary slightly between countries and regions. It is advisable to contact the relevant embassy or consulate in advance to confirm the exact list of required documents to avoid delays.

4. Important Notes and Common Issues

1. Language Translation Requirements

The power of attorney must generally be written in Chinese. If drafted in the local language, a certified Chinese translation must be attached, accompanied by a stamp from a recognized translation agency.

2. In-Person Signature Requirement

During the notarization process, the applicant must appear in person before the notary and sign the document-no proxy signatures are allowed. Valid identification must also be presented for identity verification.

3. Validity Period and Scope of Authorization

The notarized document will specify its period of validity, which may apply only to a particular matter. When drafting the power of attorney, clearly define the scope and duration of authority to prevent unauthorized overreach.

4. Fees and Processing Time

Notarization fees vary by country. While embassy or consulate services are typically reasonably priced, processing times can be lengthy. It is recommended to plan ahead and allow sufficient time.

5. Case Study A Student's Real Experience

In early 2025, a Chinese student named Li, studying at a university in the UK, faced the issue of selling a property in China before returning home after graduation. Due to academic commitments and the inability to return temporarily, he decided to process a notarized power of attorney through the Chinese Embassy in the UK.

He downloaded a template online, filled out the document, and booked an appointment at the embassy in London. With guidance from embassy staff, he successfully completed the identity verification and signing procedures. One week later, he received the notarized document. He mailed it back to China and successfully authorized a family member to handle the property transfer. This case demonstrates that with adequate preparation and adherence to procedures, even those living far away can efficiently complete notarized powers of attorney and protect their legal rights.

6. Conclusion

In today’s increasingly globalized world, handling cross-border affairs has become commonplace. For Chinese citizens living abroad, understanding how to process a notarized power of attorney overseas is not only a practical solution but also an essential means of protecting personal rights.

By using official channels, preparing documents carefully, and staying informed about the latest policy updates, you can smoothly complete the notarization process, making distant and complex tasks manageable and under control.