Specific vs General — when to use which
Specific POA is the default safe choice. It names the exact act (e.g., open a SCB bank account, transfer a Land Department title), the asset, and the agent. General POA is dangerous because it gives the agent the same powers as the principal across the entire estate — appropriate only for spouses managing affairs during long-term absences.
Form requirements
Thai POAs must be on the official Stamp Duty form (THB 30 for specific acts, THB 60 for management). The form is available at any Amphur. The document must be signed by the principal and two witnesses.
International POA chain
For a POA executed abroad to be used in Thailand: notarise at home country, apostille or legalize, send to Thailand, translate into Thai by MFA translator, legalize at MFA. For a POA executed in Thailand to be used abroad: NSA notarisation, MFA legalization, destination embassy.
Common pitfalls
Using a generic template downloaded from the internet — Thai courts insist on the official stamp form. Forgetting two witness signatures. Specifying the property by 'house at Bangkok' rather than the exact Chanote title number. Failing to revoke an old POA before issuing a new one.