A power of attorney (POA) is a legally binding document that allows a person to appoint someone to manage his/her property and financial or personal affairs. POA is typically used by those who cannot manage these affairs, mainly due to being away for an extended period of time.

The POA gives the attorney-in-fact the power to make decisions about your affairs. The type of POA dictates which affairs an attorney-in-fact may handle on your behalf, so it is essential to choose the right POA to suit your needs. A general power of attorney (“Poder General”) is best for people who need someone to make a wide range of decisions. If you want to limit the power of your chosen agent to a specific matter and/or certain actions, you should choose a limited power (“Poder Especial”). It is always best to consult with a lawyer about the POA you wish to create.

Procedure and fees.

1.- Send the draft of your POA by email to libano@mrecic.gov.ar in .doc or .docx format and ask for an appointment.

2.- On the day of the appointment, you should bring the identity document with which you are identified in the POA (passport, ID card, etc.).

3.- You will need to consent to the text and sign it before a consular officer.

4.- The original POA is kept in the Notary Book of this Consular Office and you will be given a copy (called “testimonio”) with the signature of the intervening consular officer electronically certified.This “testimonio” has to be sent to your attorney-in-fact in Argentina and is valid in all the Argentine territory without the need of any further diligence.

The fees are USD40 every 25 lines or fraction under 25 lines, for both the POA and the “testimonio”. This means the total cost will be in relation to the text’s length. For example, a POA of 48 lines will cost USD160 (USD80 for the original POA and USD80 for the “testimonio”). A POA of 52 lines will cost USD240 (USD120 for the original POA and USD120 for the “testimonio”).