Vekalet (vekâlet, vekaletname) is a notarised power of attorney that allows a representative to buy or sell property in Turkey on your behalf, sign at the land registry, pay taxes and deal with other formalities. With one, you can complete a purchase or sale without travelling to Alanya.
When you need one
- the buyer or seller cannot attend the land registry on the day of completion;
- you need a tax number or a DASK earthquake policy without visiting in person;
- after the purchase, utilities have to be transferred and taxes paid;
- the owner lives abroad and is selling.
Completing a property transaction remotely under a power of attorney is standard practice in Turkey.
Where to get a vekalet
- At a Turkish notary. The simplest option if you are in the country. You will need your passport and, if you do not speak Turkish, an interpreter.
- Abroad. Either at a notary in your home country, with an apostille and a Turkish translation, or at a Turkish consulate, where the document is drafted to Turkish requirements from the outset.
What the document should cover
Authorities and banks accept only the powers expressly listed in the text, so they need to be set out in detail:
- buying and/or selling – a specific property or real estate in Turkey generally;
- signing at the land registry (Tapu Müdürlüğü) and receiving the tapu;
- paying taxes and fees, and obtaining a tax number;
- contracts for water, electricity, gas and internet;
- arranging DASK insurance and other paperwork.
If the property details are known, include them. The more precise the wording, the fewer questions at the registry.
Risks and how to limit them
A broadly worded power of attorney gives your representative real control over your property and money. So:
- grant it only to someone you trust;
- limit the powers to a specific transaction where possible;
- revoke it at a notary once the job is done if you no longer need it;
- pay the seller directly rather than routing money through the representative’s account.
How we help
We draft the power of attorney wording for your specific transaction, explain how to have it executed in your country and manage the purchase or sale through to registration of the title deed. See purchase support and selling your property.