How to Use a Power of Attorney to Buy Property in Bali as a Foreigner

If you want to buy property in Bali but can’t be there in person—whether you’re living overseas, managing a busy schedule, or handling legal limits as a foreigner—a Power of Attorney (POA) can help you complete the process.

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives someone else (your agent) the authority to represent you in legal or financial matters. In Bali, POA is commonly used in property transactions, especially by foreign buyers or Indonesian investors who live abroad.

Power of Attorney is fully legal and regulated under Indonesian Civil Law (Articles 1792–1819 of the KUHPerdata). In practice, POA is:

1. Drafted and signed before a licensed Indonesian Notary (Notaris/PPAT).
2. Sometimes translated into Bahasa Indonesia if issued by a foreigner.
3. Used together with your passport copy and legal documents when you are a non-resident.

It allows you to legally assign another person to sign contracts, attend the notary, and handle the full sale or purchase process without needing to be physically present in Bali.

Key reasons to use POA in Bali (Property Transaction in Bali)

1. You live overseas and can’t travel to Bali.
    
2. You want your notary or legal consultant to handle the transaction for you.
    
3. You are setting up a PT PMA and need a representative to sign the company property documents.
    
4. You’re buying an off-plan villa and want to assign someone to manage the construction-related approvals.
    

In addition, if you are currently outside Indonesia and wish to make a PoA, you may need to do an Apostille.

What is an Apostille? Why is it Needed, and When Do You Need One?

An Apostille is an official certificate that makes a document from one country legally valid in another country. It is used to confirm that the document is genuine and can be accepted abroad without further legalization. For example, if you are in France and sign a PoA to authorize someone in Indonesia, the document must include an Apostille in order to be recognized as valid by the Indonesian authorities.

Why is an Apostille Needed?

An Apostille is needed when you want to use an official document, such as a PoA, Birth Certificate, company documents, or property agreements, to be validated in another country. It helps authorities in that country trust that the document is real and properly issued.

When Do You Need an Apostille?

You need an Apostille before sending or using a document in another country. An Apostille is usually issued after the document is signed and/or notarized in the country where the document was originally issued. It’s important to check whether the country where the document will be used requires an Apostille and whether the type of document you have qualifies for one.

What Can Your Representative Do with a POA in Bali?

If written correctly, your Power of Attorney can allow your representative to:

1. A Power of Attorney (PoA) may authorize the appointed representative to sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement and along with other contractual documents, such as lease agreements or other legal arrangements, provided such documents are explicitly listed in the PoA.
2. In the context of establishing a PMA (Foreign Investment Company), a Power of Attorney (PoA) may be used to authorize a representative to act on your behalf to establish a PMA by conducting all necessary actions to establish your PMA..
3. Of course, PoA may also assist you in financial matters and other actions by permitting your agent to make and receive payments related to your Property purchase on your behalf, and/or collect original certificates or permits.
   
    

💡 Important: When preparing a PoA, it’s essential to specify each authority you're granting to your representative. Keep in mind that government offices, notaries, or land agencies in Indonesia may reject a PoA if it's too general, unclear, or not compliant with local legal standards. Therefore, always double-check the specific requirements with the relevant authorities before finalizing your POA to ensure smooth processing and hassle-free acceptance. We always advise checking with your trusted legal advisor..
 

Steps to Create a Power of Attorney for Property in Bali

Here’s how to legally create a POA in Bali:

1. Choose a Trusted Person

This can be a lawyer, notary, legal consultant, business partner, or real estate agent you trust.

 2. Draft the POA

Include:

- Your full name, passport details
- The agent’s identity
- Property details (address, type of property)
- Clear tasks the agent can perform

3. Notarize the POA

Sign it before an Indonesian notary (if you are in Bali) or, if you are abroad, please follow the Apostille procedure of the country where the document originates.

4. Submit to Relevant Authorities

Your POA will be used during signing with the notary, land office, or developer.

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Whether you're an investor, a foreign buyer, or someone working remotely, POA gives you the flexibility to complete the sale legally and efficiently, as long as it's drafted carefully and notarized properly.

Remember: always consult with a professional notary or legal advisor in Bali before signing any POA. If you need help, check with the Bali Notary Association or a trusted real estate agency that works with foreign buyers.