How to Get a Power of Attorney (Procuração) for Portugal: A Remote-First Guide

TL;DR (The 30-Second Answer): A Procuração allows a representative in Portugal to handle your NIF, bank setup, or property deeds while you are abroad. To be valid, it must list specific powers, be signed before a notary, and - if signed outside Portugal - receive an Apostille or consular legalization. For Brazilians, this is the essential "Step 1" for fiscal representation.

What is a Portuguese Power of Attorney (Procuração)?

A Procuração is a legal instrument where you (the Outorgante) authorize someone else (the Procurador) to act on your behalf in Portugal. For freelancers and digital nomads, this is most commonly used to appoint a Fiscal Representative - a legal requirement for non-EU/EEA residents to obtain a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal).

Key Legal Entities

Why do Brazilian Freelancers need a Power of Attorney?

If you are a Brazilian citizen living outside the EU, you cannot simply "apply" for a NIF online without a representative.

1. Fiscal Representation: You need a resident to bridge the gap with Finanças (Tax Authority).
2. Remote Onboarding: Signing a PoA allows Coepi.eu to handle the bureaucracy while you focus on your move.
3. Real Estate & Utilities: If you find a rental while still in Brazil, your Procurador can sign the promissory contract (CPCV) or set up your electricity and water.

The 3-Step Logistics: From São Paulo to Lisbon

To turn a template into a legal reality, follow this specific workflow optimized for the Brazilian-Portuguese corridor:

1. The Drafting Phase (Specificity is Key)

General "Power of Attorney" documents are often rejected. Your document must explicitly state: "Special powers to represent the grantor before the Tax Authority (AT) for NIF application and fiscal representation." At Coepi.eu, we provide templates already pre-validated by Portuguese lawyers to avoid this "rejection loop."

2. The Notary Phase (Reconhecimento de Firma)

You must take the printed document to a Cartório. You need to perform a "Reconhecimento de firma por autenticidade" (signing in front of the clerk), not just a simple comparison of signatures.

• Pro Tip: Bring your valid Passport. Some Portuguese entities are hesitant to accept the Brazilian RG if it is more than 10 years old.

3. The Apostille Phase (The Hague Stamp)

Since Brazil and Portugal are both members of the Hague Convention, your document must have an Apostille. This is a separate sticker/seal applied by the Cartório that validates the Notary's authority internationally. Without this, your document is just "fancy paper" once it crosses the Atlantic.

Common Pitfalls: Why "DIY" PoAs Fail

• Vague Powers: Using a "General" PoA for a "Specific" act like opening a bank account. Most Portuguese banks require a dedicated clause for banking.
• Expired IDs: If the ID number listed on the PoA doesn't match the ID you send to Finanças, the process stops immediately.
• Missing Translation: If you are a Brazilian in a non-Portuguese speaking country (e.g., USA), the PoA must be translated into Portuguese by a certified translator.

How much does a Procuração cost in Portugal?

While Notary fees vary, using a tech-assisted platform like Coepi.eu allows you to bundle the PoA drafting with your NIF service, significantly reducing total costs compared to hiring a traditional law firm at hourly rates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I cancel a Power of Attorney at any time?

Yes. You can revoke a Procuração at any time by following the formal legal procedure to notify the representative and relevant authorities (like the Notary or Finanças).

Is a "General" Power of Attorney enough for a NIF?

No. Portuguese tax authorities typically require Special Powers (Poderes Especiais) explicitly mentioning fiscal representation and the NIF request.

Can a Power of Attorney be used to open a bank account?

Yes, but only if it contains a specific "Banking Clause." Most standard templates do not include this, which is why using a specialized service is safer.