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A power of attorney (surat kuasa) authorises another person to act for you in specific legal, financial or administrative matters. In Bali it is how buyers close property deals from abroad, how founders register companies without flying in, and how families handle banks and government offices. For land, company and most official matters it must be notarized to be accepted.
Fees: a power of attorney carries the notary's fee for the deed plus Rp 10,000 stamp duty. It is quoted before drafting. See notary fees in Bali.
What is a power of attorney (surat kuasa) used for in Bali?
- Property. Signing a sale deed, a lease or a mortgage when you cannot attend. See PPAT and sale deeds.
- Companies. Registering a PT PMA, filing changes or attending meetings. See company deeds.
- Banking. Opening an account or signing bank documents for you.
- Immigration. Submitting applications or attending appointments, where in-person presence is not required.
- Courts and disputes. Letting a lawyer represent you.
- Documents. Collecting an apostille or certified copies.
Should my power of attorney be general or special?
A general power of attorney covers a wide range of acts. A special power of attorney is limited to named tasks, such as signing one deed or attending one office. For most situations the special form is the better choice: it says clearly what the attorney can and cannot do, which reduces the risk of misuse and is what government offices usually expect.
How is a power of attorney made in Bali?
- Consultation. Decide what powers are needed and for how long.
- Drafting. The power of attorney is drafted in Bahasa Indonesia with an English translation, so you understand every power you give.
- Identity. You show your passport or KTP.
- Signing. You sign in front of the notary, who confirms your identity and intent and seals the document.
- Use. It goes to the land office, bank, court or ministry that needs it.
Preparation and notarization usually take a few business days. A power of attorney notarized in Bali is valid anywhere in Indonesia.
Can I sign a power of attorney from abroad?
If you are outside Indonesia, sign at an Indonesian embassy or consulate, or before a notary in your country, and have it apostilled or legalised. The draft is prepared here in the right form, so it is accepted when it arrives.
Who should I choose as attorney?
You can appoint a foreigner, but for dealings with Indonesian offices it is often easier to appoint an Indonesian citizen or a legal representative with local standing.
What are the limits, and how is a POA revoked?
You can revoke a power of attorney at any time with a notarized revocation letter sent to every institution involved. One limit is fixed: an irrevocable power of attorney to sell land is treated as an absolute power of attorney, and a PPAT is required to refuse to draw one.
