Signing an Israeli Power of Attorney in the United States
If you live in the United States and need a power of attorney for Israel, you have two main options for signing it so that it's recognised in Israel. Here's a plain-English overview.
Option 1: Sign before an Israeli consul
Israel has an embassy and several consulates in the United States. Appointments are usually needed and availability varies by city.
The consul authenticates your signature, and no apostille is needed. This is often the simplest option if there is an Israeli mission reasonably close to you.
Option 2: Sign before a local notary + apostille
A US notary public (commissioned by a state) can notarise your signature. Many banks, shipping stores and law offices offer notary services.
The apostille: In most cases, the apostille is issued by the Secretary of State (or equivalent office) of the state where the notary is commissioned – not by the federal government. Some states let you request it by mail or online.
United States and Israel are both parties to the Hague Apostille Convention, so a document with an apostille is generally recognised in Israel without further legalisation.
Which option should I choose?
| Compare | Israeli consul | Local notary + apostille |
|---|---|---|
| Apostille needed? | No | Yes |
| Travel | To the embassy or consulate | Usually a local office near you |
| Time | Depends on appointment availability | Notary visit + time to get the apostille |
| Best when… | You live near a mission and can get an appointment | The mission is far away or fully booked |
Tip for United States: Make sure the notary completes a proper notarial certificate for your signature, and that the apostille is issued by the same state in which the notary is commissioned.
What to bring
- A valid passport (and, if you have one, your Israeli ID number)
- The unsigned power of attorney we prepared for you – do not sign it in advance
- Any extra details we list in your personal instructions
Consular and apostille fees, procedures and opening hours are set by the relevant authorities and may change. Please check the official websites before your appointment – and we'll always give you up-to-date instructions for your case.
Official sources
- U.S. Department of State – authenticate your document (apostilles)
- Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs – embassies and consulates worldwide
- HCCH – Apostille Convention status table
New to apostilles? Read what an apostille is and when your POA needs one, or see common questions.
Please note: this page gives general information about Israeli powers of attorney. It is not legal advice and does not create a lawyer–client relationship. Requirements can change and can differ between institutions, so we always confirm the details for your specific case.
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