Power of Attorney Abroad Guide
Everything UK expats need to know about Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) — when to create one, how to register while abroad, international recognition, and country-specific alternatives to protect your affairs.
Your situation
Types of UK LPA
1. Property & Financial Affairs LPA
Allows your attorney to manage UK bank accounts, investments, property, pensions and tax affairs. Can be used while you still have capacity (with your consent) or only when you lose capacity. Critical for expats with UK assets.
2. Health & Welfare LPA
Allows your attorney to make decisions about medical treatment, care arrangements and where you live. Only usable when you lack mental capacity. Important if you return to UK for medical care.
3. Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) — pre-2007
Older form of POA made before 1 October 2007. Still valid if properly made. Does NOT cover health and welfare decisions — you should also make an LPA. EPAs must be registered with OPG if the donor is losing capacity.
Your POA assessment
Step-by-step: Making an LPA from abroad
Use the online LPA tool
Go to apply for Lasting Power of Attorney on GOV.UK. You can complete the application fully online. Fee: £82 per LPA (reduced fee or free for those on low income).
Choose your attorney(s)
An attorney must be 18+, not bankrupt, and ideally in the UK (for practicality). You can appoint multiple attorneys to act jointly, jointly and severally, or in sequence.
Certificate provider signatures
An independent certificate provider must sign the LPA to confirm you understand it and are not under pressure. This person must know you personally or be a professional (solicitor, doctor, etc.).
Witnessing from abroad
You must sign the LPA in front of a witness. From abroad, any person 18+ can witness — they do NOT need to be a notary. However, your attorney's signature must also be witnessed.
Register with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG)
Post the signed LPA to OPG (from abroad you can courier or have a UK contact send it). Registration takes approximately 20 weeks. LPA is NOT valid until registered. Do not delay registration.
Digital LPA (coming 2025/26)
HMRC is rolling out a fully digital LPA service. This will allow remote execution and registration, removing the need to post documents. Check GOV.UK for current status.
International POA recognition
Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| UK LPA registration fee (each) | £82 |
| Solicitor drafting fee (typical) | £300–600 |
| Certified copy for overseas use | £35–75/copy |
| Apostille (FCDO authentication) | £30/document |
| Notarisation (if required) | £50–150 |
| Local POA (destination country) | Varies: £100–£1,000+ |