Costa Rican consulates execute powers of attorney and certify documents for use back home. Costa Rican practice distinguishes between a poder generalísimo, a poder general and a poder especial, and which one you need is decided by the transaction, not by convenience.
Quick facts
The broadest form carries very wide authority over property and assets and generally has to be registered in the national registry before it can be used. The narrow form covers one defined act and is what most people actually need.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Special power of attorney | Consular tariff | One defined transaction |
| General power of attorney | Consular tariff | Broader administration |
| Very broad power | Consular tariff | Requires registration in Costa Rica |
| Registration in the national registry | Charged there | For the broader forms |
| Notary’s fees in Costa Rica | Agreed with the firm | Drafting and completion |
Property is the dominant use, and Costa Rican real estate is described by registry folio numbers that must be quoted exactly.
How to apply
- Ask the notary in Costa Rica which type of power the transaction requires.
- Obtain the exact wording from them.
- Gather the registry folio numbers, account details or case references.
- Book the appointment at the consulate covering your state.
- Attend with your identity card and sign before the consular officer.
- Send the original to Costa Rica for registration where the form requires it.
Required documents
- Valid Costa Rican identity card or passport.
- The wording supplied by the notary in Costa Rica.
- Full details and identity numbers of everyone named.
- Property folio numbers or case references.
- Civil status documents where the act depends on them.
- Payment in the accepted form.
Where to apply
At the consulate covering your state, by appointment.
No offices currently listed.
Additional notes
Do not grant more than you need
The broadest form hands over control of property and assets. Where a special power for one transaction will do, use that.
Registration matters
Broader powers must be registered in Costa Rica before third parties will act on them. Budget the time.
Property purchases
Foreign buyers are common in Costa Rica and so are disputes over title. Verify the folio through a notary before granting anything.
Revocation
Revoking requires a further instrument through the same route, and registration of the revocation where the original was registered.