How to prepare and apostille a U.S. power of attorney for use in Colombia

Before signing, ask the Colombian notary, bank, registry, attorney or other receiving entity to confirm the required wording and authority.

Special and general powers of attorney

A special power is limited to specific acts. A general power may require execution as a public deed. An apostille cannot repair incomplete wording or establish that the granted powers are sufficient.

The consular route

The grantor may acknowledge the signature or execute the corresponding public deed before a Colombian consulate. Follow the office's instructions, including whether the document must be presented in Spanish and remain unsigned until the appointment.

The U.S. notarial route

The document may also be signed before a state notary and apostilled in the state that commissioned that notary. Florida does not apostille notarial signatures from another state and does not accept a photocopy in place of the original notarized document.

Translation and delivery

A document in another language may need an official Spanish translation. Keep the apostille attached to the original and do not alter the set after issuance.

Frequently asked questions

Does the apostille validate the contents?

No. It authenticates the signature or official capacity of the signer.

Can Florida apostille a power signed in New York?

No. The competent authority is in New York.

Will a generic template work?

Not necessarily. The recipient should confirm the transaction, identifying details and powers required.

Official sources

Colombian Consulate in Miami — Consular services · Florida Department of State — Apostille and notarial certification