In short: an NRI can authorise someone in India to sell, buy, rent, manage property or handle a court case through a power of attorney (POA). Sign it abroad before the Indian embassy or consulate, or before a notary with an apostille. It must be stamped in India within three months of reaching India, and for property sales it should be specific and registered. Give powers only to someone you trust, and revoke it in writing when no longer needed.
General or specific power of attorney
- Specific POA: for one task, such as selling a particular flat or appearing in one case. Safer, and preferred by registrars and banks.
- General POA: wide powers to manage affairs. Riskier, and a POA does not by itself transfer ownership to the attorney.
How to execute a POA abroad
- Draft it in India with an advocate, so it meets the sub-registrar's or court's requirements (property details, powers, photographs and identity of both parties).
- Sign it abroad: before the Indian embassy or consulate; or before a local notary followed by an apostille in Hague Convention countries (USA, UK, Australia, Singapore and others).
- Send the original to India. Pay stamp duty in the relevant state within three months of its arrival (adjudication).
- Register it where it will be used to sell or transfer property, if your state requires it.
Revoking a POA
Revoke it by a written deed, executed the same way, and give notice to the attorney, the sub-registrar where it was registered, and anyone dealing with them, such as banks or buyers. A POA ends automatically on the death of the person who gave it.
Questions people ask
How can an NRI make a power of attorney for property in India?
Draft it with an Indian advocate, sign it at the Indian embassy or before a notary with an apostille, then stamp it in India within three months and register it if it will be used to sell property.
Is an apostilled power of attorney valid in India?
Yes, a document apostilled in a Hague Convention country is accepted in India, subject to stamping in India within three months of receipt.
Can the attorney holder sell my property?
Only if the POA specifically gives that power. The sale deed is then signed by the attorney on your behalf and registered.
Can a power of attorney be cancelled?
Yes, by a written revocation deed, with notice to the attorney and to the registrar and others who rely on it.
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Become a ClientCall +91 81001 21141This guide gives general information about the law in India as on 11 November 2026. It is not legal advice for your situation, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Rules and limits change; please take advice on your own facts.