For the Lebanese diaspora, appointing a trusted relative via a Power of Attorney (POA)—locally known as a Wakala—is the most effective way to manage property without traveling to Lebanon. In 2026, as the market stabilizes with “Fresh Dollar” transactions, having a legally sound POA is essential for any real estate activity.
1. Types of Power of Attorney
Depending on your needs, you will choose between two primary types of Wakala:
- General Power of Attorney (Wakala Amma): Grants your relative broad authority to act on your behalf in most legal, financial, and administrative matters.
- Special Power of Attorney (Wakala Khassa): Limits authority to a specific task, such as the sale, purchase, or management of a specific plot of land or apartment. This is highly recommended for real estate to maintain tighter control.
2. Required Documentation for the Expat
To draw up a POA at a Lebanese Consulate or Embassy, the principal (you) must provide:
- Identification: A recent Lebanese I.D. card, an Extract of Civil Status (Ikhraj Kaid), or a valid Lebanese passport.
- Recipient Details: Full name of the relative in Lebanon, their mother’s name, date of birth, and their place and number of registry in Lebanon.
- Property Information: For real estate, you must present the original deed or a recent official registry certificate (Ifade Ikariya).
- Health Certificate: Applicants over 65 (or 70 in some jurisdictions) must submit a certificate of good mental health from their physician.
3. The Appointment Process: Step-by-Step
| Step | Action | Details |
| 1 | Drafting | Contact your local Lebanese Consulate. Some provide drafts for review before your appointment. |
| 2 | Signature | You must appear in person at the Consulate to sign the document in front of a consular officer. |
| 3 | Witnesses | Two witnesses who are not related to you or the recipient must sign the document. |
| 4 | Legalization | After the Consulate signs, the document must be sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beirut for final legalization before it can be used locally. |
4. Important 2026 Limitations
- Validity: Powers of Attorney affecting real estate in Lebanon are only valid for a five-year period.
- Revocation: You retain the right to revoke or alter the POA at any time, provided you are of sound mind. You must formally notify the relative and relevant institutions to prevent continued use.
- Fees: Fees vary by type; for example, a Special POA generally costs less than a General POA.
PrimeZed Advice: Always appoint a relative you trust implicitly. While a POA is a powerful tool for distance management, it carries risks if the agent is unreliable. Establishing safeguards, such as requiring your secondary approval for final sales, can protect your interests.