What is Įgaliojimas?

A Lithuanian power of attorney — a notarised document authorising a representative to perform legal acts, including property transactions, on behalf of another person.

Key Facts — Įgaliojimas

An įgaliojimas (power of attorney) is frequently used in Lithuanian property transactions by buyers or sellers who cannot attend the notary in person. For property-related acts, the power of attorney must be notarised to be valid.

The document must clearly describe the scope of authority: the specific property (by address and cadastral number), the authorised actions (sign the purchase deed, submit the registration application, pay the purchase price), and any financial limits. A vague power of attorney may be rejected by the notary.

An įgaliojimas issued in a foreign country must be apostilled (for Hague Convention countries) or consularly legalised, and translated into Lithuanian by a certified translator. The apostille and translation must be submitted to the notary before the transaction.

The power of attorney can be revoked (atšauktas) at any time by the principal through a notarised revocation notice. The representative and any third parties dealing with the representative should be informed of revocation immediately to prevent acts after revocation.

Lithuanian notaries routinely check the Lithuanian Register of Authorisations (Įgaliojimų registras) to verify that a power of attorney has not been revoked. This provides security for third parties relying on the document.

Common Mistake: Using a power of attorney that does not mention the specific property or authorise all necessary steps. The representative will be unable to sign subsidiary documents — such as mortgage discharge forms or cadastral update applications — without explicit authority.
Expert Tip: If you are using a power of attorney, also authorise the representative to open and operate a Lithuanian bank account on your behalf if needed. Some transaction payments must be made through a Lithuanian bank account for anti-money-laundering compliance.
Related terms: NOTARAS PIRKIMO-PARDAVIMO SUTARTIS NEKILNOJAMOJO TURTO REGISTRAS

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is an įgaliojimas valid?

Until the specified expiry date, or indefinitely if none is stated, subject to revocation. For a property purchase use a date-limited document — six to twelve months is usually sufficient.

Can an įgaliojimas be used for multiple properties?

Yes, if it expressly lists all the properties and the authorised acts for each. A general power of attorney without specifics is less reliable and may be questioned by notaries.

What if the principal dies before the transaction completes?

The įgaliojimas terminates automatically on death. The representative can no longer act. The transaction must then proceed through the deceased's estate, which requires a separate legal process.

→ Read our full guide: Guide To Lawyers In Lithuania

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AvökatFinder Editorial Team Legal glossary editors — expat legal terms across 41 European countries

This glossary entry is produced by the AvökatFinder editorial team and reviewed for accuracy. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified lawyer in Lithuania for advice specific to your situation.

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