Power of attorney: buying an apartment from the diaspora without being in Kosovo

Buying an apartment from abroad looks complicated, but there is a legal tool that makes it possible: the power of attorney. With it, a person you trust can act in your name in Kosovo, while you are in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, or anywhere else. Here’s how it works and what to keep in mind.

What a power of attorney is

A power of attorney is a notarized authorization by which you give a trusted person the right to act for you — for example, to sign the sale-purchase contract and carry out the property registration in the cadastre. This way, the procedure can be carried out remotely, without you needing to be physically present at every step.

Where to get it

A notarized power of attorney can be made:

• at a notary in Kosovo; or
• from abroad, at a diplomatic or consular mission of Kosovo.

The exact form and the requirements for legalization or apostille can vary by case and by the country you are in. So confirm them in advance with the notary or the consulate before you act — do not rely on assumptions.

Verification remains essential

A power of attorney solves the legal part of the distance problem, but it does not replace due diligence. Make sure a trusted person sees the building and verifies the property possession certificate (fletëposeduese) before any payment. The biggest risk for diaspora buyers is paying for something that no one you trust has ever seen.

Financing from abroad

If you will take out a loan, buyers with income from abroad usually need to bring additional documentation and, in some cases, a co-borrower in Kosovo. For details, see banks and rates.

In the end

A power of attorney makes buying from the diaspora realistic, but safety comes from combining it with careful verification. For the whole process from abroad, see buying from the diaspora and how to make the most of your summer visit. This is a general guide — confirm the forms and requirements with a notary or the consulate.