With no consulate in the United States, a power of attorney letting a relative act in Funafuti is usually the only practical way anything moves. Tuvalu is a common law jurisdiction working in English, so the instrument itself is straightforward; getting it accepted is the part that needs planning.
Quick facts
Land is held by families and is tied to the island of origin, with customary authority governing who may decide what. On atolls where land is scarce and low-lying, those questions carry weight out of all proportion to the areas involved.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. notarisation | $5–$25 per signature | First step |
| State and federal certification | $3–$25 plus $20 | Where required |
| Consular step | Not available here | Ask what substitutes |
| Legal fees in Tuvalu | Agreed locally | The profession is very small |
| Courier | Carrier’s charge | Slow and expensive |
The legal profession in Tuvalu is tiny, so expect to work with whoever is available rather than choosing among firms, and allow time for correspondence.
How to proceed
- Establish what the matter actually requires, through family or a lawyer in Funafuti.
- Ask how the document should be certified, given there is no post here.
- Establish who in the family has authority over the land concerned.
- Collect the identity details of everyone named.
- Complete the U.S. certifications once the route is agreed.
- Courier the original and keep a scan.
Required documents
- Tuvaluan passport or identity document.
- The wording required by whoever will present it.
- Full details of the person receiving the authority.
- Details of the island and the land concerned.
- Evidence of relationship for family matters.
- Correspondence confirming the certification route.
Where to enquire
At the Permanent Mission in New York, and with family or a lawyer in Funafuti.
Additional notes
Agree the route before drafting
A document that cannot be certified is worthless, however well written.
Family authority over land
Establish who decides before granting anyone authority to act.
A very small profession
Expect limited choice and allow time for correspondence.
Revocation
Revoking requires a further instrument through the same slow route, so keep the authority narrow.