Property and ownership
Buying property in Bosnia by power of attorney
Yes, a purchase can be completed through a representative. What the power of attorney must say, how it is certified for use in Bosnia, and what not to hand over.
Alhosani
·Sarajevo·0views
Not every buyer can be present at the notary in Sarajevo on signing day. The law allows a representative to sign for you, but the power of attorney has to meet conditions here.
What it must say
Who the representative is, which property (plot and registry numbers if possible) and which powers: signing the purchase contract, filing for registration, collecting documents. The safest route is to take the text from the notary who will certify the sale.
How it is certified
You sign before a notary in your country, then it needs international certification. The method depends on your country: an apostille for some, ministry and embassy legalisation for others. In Bosnia it is translated by a sworn translator.
Who should represent you
Someone you trust: a relative living in Bosnia, a lawyer or an office you work with. Never the seller or the seller agent.
What not to hand over
- Viewing: see the property yourself, send someone you trust, or ask for a live video tour.
- Ownership check: get a recent land registry extract before any payment.
- Money: transfer the price from your own account to the account named in the contract.
See also buying property step by step.
Written in October 2026 as general information, not legal, tax or banking advice. Conditions and fees change and differ between areas and banks — confirm with a notary, your bank or an accountant before you decide.
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