Overseas Pakistanis own a significant portion of urban and peri-urban property in Punjab. Distance and unauthorised transfers during absence make them vulnerable. The law provides a robust remedy: a properly attested Special Power of Attorney (SPA) allowing local counsel to file, defend and execute matters without the principal travelling to Pakistan.
1. Drafting a Special Power of Attorney (SPA)
A bespoke SPA is drafted listing the specific powers required: filing and defending suits, signing pleadings, swearing affidavits, receiving payments, executing sale deeds, mutating property, and engaging counsel. Generic SPAs cause practical difficulties at the Sub-Registrar and revenue office.
2. Attestation at the Pakistani Embassy / Consulate
The SPA is signed in front of a notary in the country of residence and then attested at the Pakistani Embassy or Consulate, which verifies the principal’s CNIC/NICOP and signature.
3. MOFA verification in Islamabad
On arrival in Pakistan the SPA is verified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Camp Office. Without MOFA verification, the SPA will not be accepted by the Sub-Registrar.
4. Registration with the Sub-Registrar
Where the SPA authorises sale or transfer of immovable property, it must be registered with the Sub-Registrar of the city where the property is located. Stamp duty applies.
5. Running the case
Once the SPA is in place we file pleadings, attend hearings, examine witnesses and execute decrees on the principal’s behalf. Updates are shared by email and WhatsApp; payments are accepted by international bank transfer.
Last updated: 4 March 2026
