🏠
How to Transfer Property Remotely Using a POA
Living abroad and need to sell or transfer property in Pakistan? With a valid Power of Attorney, your representative can handle the entire process on your behalf.
Overseas⏱ 2–6 weeks (varies by city)💰 PKR 50,000–200,000+ (stamp duty, CVT, capital gains tax)
- Valid apostilled/attested Power of Attorney (see the POA guide)
- Original title deed or allotment letter of the property
- Your CNIC or NICOP (overseas Pakistanis use NICOP)
- Buyer's CNIC
- NOC from relevant authority (DHA, LDA, CDA, etc.) if applicable
- Utility bills showing the property address
- Tax returns or proof of tax compliance (IRIS/FBR)
1
Execute and send a POA
Before anything else, execute a Special Power of Attorney in your country of residence (notarised + apostilled or embassy-attested). The POA should specifically authorise your representative to sell the named property, receive payment, and sign all transfer documents. See the 'How to Execute a POA from Abroad' guide for this step.
2
Get the POA attested in Pakistan
Once received in Pakistan, your attorney-in-fact must get the POA attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). This is done at MoFA offices in Islamabad or through a provincial liaison office. Takes 1–3 days.
3
Get an NOC (if required)
Many housing societies (DHA, Bahria, LDA-approved schemes) require a No-Objection Certificate before transfer. Your attorney applies for the NOC from the relevant society office using the POA, original documents, and paid membership/dues receipts.
4
Execute the sale deed at Sub-Registrar
The attorney-in-fact and buyer appear before the Sub-Registrar with all documents. Stamp duty and other taxes are paid before registration. The Registrar records the transfer and issues a registered sale deed. Your attorney signs on your behalf using the POA.
5
Mutation (intiqal) at the Patwari
After registration, file for mutation with the local Patwari (revenue officer) to update the land record in your name (or buyer's name). This is the final legal step that updates government ownership records.
6
Capital Gains Tax (if selling)
If you are selling, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is payable depending on how long you've owned the property. File this on FBR IRIS or have a local accountant handle it. Overseas Pakistanis must be on the Active Taxpayers List to avoid withholding tax penalties.
- Hire a local property lawyer in the relevant city — they know the specific requirements of each Sub-Registrar office
- Do NOT transfer title before receiving payment — instruct your attorney to ensure payment is in the bank first
- Ensure you file your Pakistani tax return as an overseas Pakistani — this affects your withholding tax rate significantly
- Video call your attorney during key steps for peace of mind
- If selling DHA property, contact DHA's overseas desk — they have a dedicated service for expat sellers
Can I sell property without coming to Pakistan?
Yes. With a valid POA, your representative can complete the entire process — NOC, registration, and mutation — without you being present.
Do I need a NICOP to sell property as an overseas Pakistani?
Yes. NICOP (or POC for non-citizen Pakistanis) is required for property transactions in Pakistan if you are abroad. Your CNIC alone may not be accepted if your address is not current.
What taxes do I pay when selling property as an overseas Pakistani?
Capital Gains Tax varies by holding period (0–15% roughly). Withholding tax on the sale proceeds is also deducted at source. If you are a non-filer, the rate is higher — staying on the Active Taxpayers List saves significantly.
My attorney misused the POA. What are my options?
You can revoke a POA at any time by executing a 'Revocation of POA' document (also notarised and attested) and sending it to the relevant Sub-Registrar. For fraud, file an FIR and consult a lawyer immediately.
Last updated: 2026-03-22. Requirements and fees can change — always verify with the official office before visiting.