A power of attorney in Kosovo allows a person to authorize someone else to act on their behalf in specified legal, administrative, financial or property-related matters.
In Albanian, a power of attorney is commonly called a Prokurë or Autorizim, although these terms and the required legal formalities may differ according to the transaction.
This document can be particularly useful for Kosovo citizens living abroad, property owners, individuals handling inheritance proceedings and people who cannot personally attend an administrative appointment.
However, not every authorization grants the same powers. A document suitable for collecting paperwork may not be sufficient to sell property, complete a banking transaction or represent someone in court.
This 2026 guide explains how to arrange a power of attorney in Kosovo, the role of a notary, documents commonly required, the use of authorizations prepared abroad and important precautions before appointing a representative.
1. What Is a Power of Attorney in Kosovo?
A power of attorney is a legal instrument through which one person authorizes another person to carry out particular actions on their behalf.
The person granting authority is commonly referred to as the principal, while the person receiving it is the representative or attorney-in-fact.
The representative does not necessarily need to be a lawyer.
Depending on the transaction, a trusted family member or another legally eligible individual may act as a representative.
The document should clearly establish:
- Who grants the authority.
- Who receives it.
- Which actions are authorized.
- Whether any restrictions apply.
- The relevant date and formalities.
- Any applicable duration or termination conditions.
The legal effect depends on the wording of the authorization, the applicable law and the requirements of the institution accepting it.
2. When Do You Need a Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney may be useful when a person cannot complete a particular procedure in person.
Common situations include:
- Requesting or collecting administrative documents.
- Handling certain property-related procedures.
- Representing an heir in an inheritance matter.
- Communicating with specified public institutions.
- Completing authorized business administration.
- Managing certain financial affairs.
- Acting before a notary where representation is legally permitted.
However, some institutions require their own authorization forms, additional identity checks or personal attendance.
A power of attorney does not automatically override those requirements.
Before preparing the document, ask the receiving institution what form and scope of authorization it will accept.
3. General vs. Special Power of Attorney
An important distinction is the scope of the authority being granted.
General Power of Attorney
A general power of attorney may cover several categories of activities.
However, broad wording does not guarantee acceptance for every transaction.
Some legal acts require expressly stated powers or a particular document format.
Special Power of Attorney
A special power of attorney is designed for a specific task or transaction.
For example, it may authorize a representative to submit documents concerning a particular apartment or participate in a defined inheritance proceeding.
For higher-risk transactions, a narrowly drafted authorization can offer greater clarity and reduce opportunities for misuse.
Important: Never assume that a general authorization is sufficient for selling real estate, transferring ownership or making irreversible declarations.
4. The Legal Framework for Notarized Documents in Kosovo
The principal legislative framework governing notarial practice is Law No. 06/L-010 on Notary, as amended.
The law regulates notarial acts, verification of signatures, identification of parties and the legal effects of properly issued notarial documents.
It also establishes obligations intended to protect the parties involved in notarial transactions.
Relevant legislation includes:
- Law No. 06/L-010 on Notary.
- Law No. 08/L-149, amending the Notary Law in 2022.
- Law No. 08/L-272, further amending the Notary Law in 2024.
- Administrative Instruction MD No. 11/2019 on the Form and Preparation of Notarial Documents.
Not every power of attorney must necessarily be prepared in exactly the same manner.
The required form depends on the transaction for which the document will be used.
A licensed notary or qualified lawyer should confirm the appropriate formalities.
5. How to Get a Power of Attorney in Kosovo
For a document requiring notarial formalities, the general preparation process is as follows.
Step 1 — Identify the Purpose
Explain exactly what the representative needs to do.
For example, collecting an official document is different from signing a property transfer agreement.
Step 2 — Contact a Licensed Notary
Find a licensed notary and explain the intended transaction.
You may consult the Kosovo Chamber of Notaries for information about the profession and available services.
Step 3 — Prepare Identification Details
Provide the identification information requested for both the principal and the representative.
Additional supporting information may be necessary.
Step 4 — Prepare the Authorization
The document should clearly define the representative’s powers.
For some matters, the receiving institution may require particular wording.
Step 5 — Verify Identity and Sign
The notary follows the identification and execution requirements applicable to the relevant notarial act.
A valid identity card or passport may be required.
Step 6 — Receive the Notarial Document
Review the completed document and ensure the names, identification details and authorized actions are correct.
Step 7 — Deliver It to the Relevant Institution
Provide the original, certified copy or other accepted form as required.
Do not assume that a scanned copy will always be sufficient.
6. What Documents Are Required?
Requirements depend on the intended authorization.
Documents or information commonly requested may include:
- Valid identification of the principal.
- Identification details of the representative.
- Address and contact information.
- A clear description of the authorized actions.
- Property details if the authorization concerns real estate.
- Business information if it concerns a company.
- Case or file references for a particular administrative proceeding.
- Supporting documentation requested by the notary.
A representative’s physical attendance may or may not be necessary depending on the form of the transaction and the receiving institution’s requirements.
Confirm this before arranging an appointment.
7. Does a Power of Attorney Have to Be Notarized?
Not every authorization has identical legal requirements.
Some routine administrative actions may accept a signed authorization or a specific institutional form.
Other transactions may require notarized signatures, a formal notarial act or additional legal safeguards.
The required level of authentication depends on the transaction and applicable legislation.
For example, a property-related authorization may require more specific formalities than permission to collect a routine administrative document.
Before paying for a notarial document, check whether the receiving institution requires:
- A simple written authorization.
- A notarized signature.
- A formal notarial act.
- A special authorization containing specific powers.
Choosing the wrong document can cause delays or rejection.
8. How to Make a Power of Attorney from Abroad
Kosovo citizens living in Germany, Switzerland, Austria or another country may need to authorize someone to act in Kosovo.
Possible preparation routes include using a foreign notary or contacting a Kosovo diplomatic or consular mission about available document services.
However, not every mission provides every notarial service.
The procedure should be confirmed before signing.
Practical preparation process
- Ask the institution in Kosovo for the exact authorization requirements.
- Confirm whether a document executed abroad will be accepted.
- Obtain the required wording where necessary.
- Contact the relevant notary or diplomatic mission.
- Check whether translation or authentication is necessary.
- Arrange delivery of the accepted document to Kosovo.
- Ask the receiving institution to confirm that the document is acceptable before the transaction.
Avoid signing a generic online template without checking its suitability for Kosovo.
9. Can a Foreign Notary’s Power of Attorney Be Used in Kosovo?
Potentially, yes, but acceptance is subject to applicable legal requirements.
Kosovo’s Notary Law addresses the legal effect of foreign notarial documents under specified conditions.
The receiving institution may need to verify the document’s authenticity, legal form and suitability for the intended transaction.
Depending on the country of issuance, the document may require:
- Apostille or another form of authentication.
- A certified translation.
- Appropriate identification information.
- Specific transaction wording.
- The original or another accepted version.
International recognition, reciprocity and applicable conventions can affect the answer.
A foreign notary’s stamp alone does not guarantee acceptance.
10. Apostille and Legalization for Powers of Attorney
Apostille and legalization procedures concern the authentication of documents for international use.
They do not automatically establish that a power of attorney grants sufficient legal authority for a particular transaction.
Kosovo participates in the Hague Apostille Convention framework, but the requirements for using a document depend on the countries involved and the applicable arrangements.
Not every cross-border document follows the same procedure.
For more detailed information, read our Kosovo Document Notarization and Legalization Guide.
Applicants should confirm the precise requirements with the receiving institution before paying for authentication or translation.
11. Power of Attorney for Property Transactions
Property matters deserve particular care because they can involve high-value assets and potentially irreversible legal consequences.
A power of attorney may be used for certain property procedures where representation is legally permitted.
Examples can include:
- Requesting cadastral information.
- Obtaining property documents.
- Representing an owner in specified administrative procedures.
- Completing an authorized transaction, subject to the required legal form.
However, authorization to obtain documents is not the same as authorization to sell an apartment or transfer ownership.
A power of attorney for a property sale should be reviewed carefully by the notary handling the transaction.
Avoid unrestricted powers unless they are necessary and fully understood.
For ownership checks, see How to Verify Property Ownership in Kosovo.
12. Power of Attorney for Inheritance Proceedings
A power of attorney may be particularly useful when an heir lives outside Kosovo.
Depending on the legal procedure, a representative may be able to perform specified acts on behalf of the heir.
However, declaring acceptance or renunciation of inheritance may have serious consequences.
The competent notary or court must determine which actions can be completed through representation and what formalities are required.
A general authorization should not automatically be treated as sufficient for inheritance renunciation or other consequential declarations.
For details about succession procedures, read our Inheritance in Kosovo Guide.
13. Can a Power of Attorney Be Used for Banking?
Some financial institutions may accept authorized representatives for specified transactions.
However, banks apply their own identity-verification, compliance and authorization requirements.
A notarized power of attorney does not guarantee that a bank will permit the representative to withdraw money, close an account or undertake another financial transaction.
Before preparing the document, ask the bank:
- Whether representation is permitted for the requested action.
- Whether it provides a mandatory authorization form.
- Whether a foreign document is accepted.
- What identity and verification documents are required.
- Whether the principal must attend personally.
Never share online banking passwords or authentication codes with a representative merely because they hold a power of attorney.
14. How Much Does a Power of Attorney Cost in Kosovo?
Notarial charges depend on the service performed and the applicable fee rules.
A simple signature certification can have different costs from preparing a more complex notarial instrument.
Additional expenses may include:
- Translation.
- Apostille or legalization.
- Certified copies.
- Document delivery from abroad.
- Professional legal assistance.
Kosovo has a regulated framework for notarial fees.
However, a single reliable price cannot be quoted for every type of power of attorney.
Ask the notary for a current, itemized fee estimate before proceeding.
15. How Long Is a Power of Attorney Valid?
There is no safe universal validity period for every power of attorney.
The duration and continuing legal effect can depend on the wording of the instrument, applicable law and circumstances affecting the authority.
Certain authorizations may specify an expiry date or relate to one particular transaction.
Events such as revocation, completion of the assigned task or changes in the principal’s legal status may affect the document’s use.
Receiving institutions can also impose document-freshness or verification requirements.
A power of attorney without a written expiry date should not automatically be assumed valid indefinitely.
16. Can You Revoke a Power of Attorney?
A principal may have the right to revoke an authorization under the applicable legal framework.
However, the proper form, timing and effects of revocation depend on the circumstances.
If you wish to cancel an authorization:
- Consult a notary or qualified lawyer about the correct procedure.
- Identify the original document and the representative.
- Prepare any required formal revocation.
- Notify the representative through an appropriate documented method.
- Inform institutions where the power of attorney may have been used.
- Keep proof of the revocation and relevant notifications.
Do not assume that merely destroying your own copy prevents a representative from using another copy.
17. Risks and Common Mistakes
A power of attorney can be useful, but it can also expose the principal to considerable risks when drafted too broadly.
Common mistakes include:
Granting unnecessarily broad powers: A representative may receive authority beyond what was intended.
Using vague wording: The receiving institution may reject an unclear document.
Selecting an unsuitable representative: Trustworthiness and ability to complete the task matter.
Ignoring cross-border formalities: Foreign authorizations may need additional authentication.
Using an old document without verification: Its continuing effect may be uncertain.
Failing to notify institutions after revocation: This can create additional disputes.
Confusing notarization with transaction approval: A notarized authorization does not eliminate separate legal requirements.
For property, inheritance and financial transactions, independent legal review may be worthwhile.
18. Power of Attorney Checklist
Before signing an authorization, review the following:
- I know exactly which actions must be performed.
- I have confirmed the receiving institution’s requirements.
- I have selected an appropriate representative.
- The document identifies both parties correctly.
- The scope of authority is clear and limited where appropriate.
- I understand the legal consequences.
- I have checked whether notarization is required.
- I have confirmed any translation or authentication requirements.
- I have checked the applicable fees.
- I understand how the authorization may end or be revoked.
- I have retained a secure copy of the completed document.
19. Frequently Asked Questions
What is a power of attorney called in Kosovo?
The Albanian term Prokurë is commonly used. Autorizim may also be used for authorizations, depending on the legal context.
Can I make a power of attorney in Kosovo through a notary?
Yes. Licensed notaries provide services involving notarial documents and signature certification, subject to the applicable requirements.
Can I authorize a relative to handle my property documents?
Potentially, yes. The receiving institution must confirm the required scope and form of authorization.
Can I prepare a power of attorney in Germany for use in Kosovo?
Potentially. The document’s acceptance depends on its form, authenticity, applicable international requirements and the transaction involved.
Does a foreign power of attorney always need an Apostille?
Not necessarily. Applicable rules and international arrangements differ. Confirm the requirements for the specific country and receiving authority.
Can someone sell my house using a power of attorney?
A sufficiently authorized representative may be able to act in a property transaction where the law permits it, but strict formalities and specific powers may be required. Consult the notary handling the transaction.
Can I authorize someone to represent me in an inheritance case?
Representation may be permitted for certain actions. The notary or court must confirm the requirements, particularly for important legal declarations.
How much does notarization cost?
Fees depend on the type of notarial service. Request a current estimate.
Is a power of attorney valid forever?
Not automatically. Its effect depends on applicable law, the instrument and relevant circumstances.
Can I cancel a power of attorney?
Revocation may be possible, subject to the applicable rules. Seek advice on the required procedure and notifying affected parties.
20. Official Sources and References
- Official Gazette of Kosovo — Law No. 06/L-010 on Notary — Notarial powers, formalities, identification and legal effects.
- Official Gazette — Law No. 08/L-149 Amending the Notary Law — Listed amendments concerning territorial notarial services.
- Official Gazette — Law No. 08/L-272 Amending the Notary Law — Further amendments published in 2024.
- Official Gazette — Administrative Instruction MD No. 11/2019 — Form and preparation of notarial documents.
- Kosovo Chamber of Notaries — Information about notarial services.
- Hague Conference on Private International Law — Kosovo Apostille Authorities — Competent authorities and international document authentication information.
- Kosovo Official Contact Point — Legal Services — Legal services and legislative references.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a power of attorney in Kosovo can make it easier to manage legal and administrative matters when you cannot attend personally.
This is particularly relevant for diaspora residents, property owners, families handling inheritance and people conducting cross-border transactions.
The most important step is not simply obtaining a notarized signature. It is ensuring that the document grants the correct powers, satisfies the receiving institution’s requirements and does not expose the principal to unnecessary risks.
When the authorization will be used abroad or prepared by a foreign notary, additional legal and document-authentication requirements may apply.
Before signing, confirm the document’s purpose, scope, duration and applicable formalities with the competent institution or a qualified professional.
Photo Credits & Image Disclosure
The featured image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes. It depicts a fictional client consulting a notary in a conceptual office setting in Prishtina, Kosovo. The people, office, documents and consultation do not represent an actual notarial proceeding or official records.
Editorial Disclaimer
This guide provides general information based on legislation and institutional material reviewed in November 2026. It is not legal advice. The appropriate form of a power of attorney depends on the transaction, applicable law and requirements of the receiving authority. Confirm current procedures with a licensed Kosovo notary or qualified lawyer.
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