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An Instruction Letter is a formal document that gives someone clear authority to act on your behalf in Swiss business or legal matters. It spells out exactly what they can do, when, and under what conditions - like authorizing a lawyer to handle your property sale or letting a business partner sign specific contracts.

Swiss companies often use these letters to delegate important tasks while maintaining proper oversight and documentation. The letter must follow Swiss Code of Obligations requirements by clearly identifying all parties, listing specific powers granted, and including any time limits or restrictions. Unlike a general power of attorney, an Instruction Letter typically covers just one transaction or a defined set of actions.

Use an Instruction Letter when you need someone to handle specific tasks on your behalf in Switzerland but want to maintain clear control over their actions. Common situations include authorizing a lawyer to negotiate property deals, letting an employee manage specific banking transactions, or empowering a business partner to sign certain contracts during your absence.

The letter becomes especially important for time-sensitive matters where Swiss regulations require documented authorization. Many Swiss banks and government offices specifically ask for Instruction Letters before allowing someone to act as your representative. It offers better protection than verbal agreements and helps prevent misunderstandings about the scope of delegated authority.

• Standard Authorization: Basic Instruction Letters that delegate specific tasks like signing documents or accessing accounts - ideal for common business transactions
• Time-Limited Instructions: Letters with clear start and end dates, often used for temporary authorizations during business trips or specific projects
• Banking Instructions: Specialized formats required by Swiss banks for account access and financial transactions, with detailed security provisions
• Legal Representation: Detailed letters authorizing attorneys to handle specific legal matters, including scope and limitations of authority
• Corporate Instructions: Complex letters used between company entities, outlining specific powers for subsidiary management or cross-border operations

• Business Owners: Create Instruction Letters to delegate authority for specific transactions or operations while maintaining control
• Corporate Executives: Issue letters to authorize managers or representatives to act on behalf of the company
• Legal Counsel: Draft and review letters to ensure compliance with Swiss law and protect client interests
• Banks and Financial Institutions: Require these letters before allowing designated representatives to conduct transactions
• Authorized Representatives: Act within the scope defined by the letter, often handling specific transactions or negotiations
• Company Administrators: Maintain records of active instructions and monitor compliance with stated limitations

• Identify Parties: Gather full legal names and contact details of both the authorizing party and designated representative
• Define Scope: List specific actions, transactions, or decisions the representative can make
• Set Time Limits: Determine clear start and end dates for the authorization period
• Document Requirements: Check if banks or authorities need specific formats or language
• Add Restrictions: Specify any limits on authority, monetary thresholds, or required approvals
• Review Format: Our platform generates compliant Swiss Instruction Letters, ensuring all essential elements are included
• Signature Details: Plan for proper witness requirements and notarization if needed

• Identification Details: Full legal names and addresses of both the authorizing party and representative
• Authorization Scope: Clear description of specific powers granted and any limitations
• Duration Clause: Explicit start and end dates for the authorization period
• Powers Description: Detailed list of permitted actions and transactions
• Governing Law: Reference to Swiss law and relevant cantonal jurisdiction
• Revocation Terms: Conditions under which the authorization can be terminated
• Signature Block: Space for authorized signatures, dates, and witness details if required
• Data Protection: Compliance statements regarding Swiss data protection requirements

An Instruction Letter differs significantly from a Letter of Authority in several key aspects, though both deal with delegating powers. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right document for your situation in Switzerland.

• Scope and Duration: Instruction Letters typically cover specific tasks or transactions with clear time limits, while Letters of Authority often grant broader, longer-term powers
• Legal Framework: Instruction Letters operate under Swiss contract law for limited business purposes, whereas Letters of Authority fall under agency law with more comprehensive legal implications
• Revocation Process: Instruction Letters can usually be revoked immediately upon notice, while Letters of Authority may require formal procedures and notice periods
• Required Format: Instruction Letters often follow simpler formatting requirements, while Letters of Authority typically need more formal authentication and sometimes notarization