The Vakil-i-Mutlaq (Persian: وکیلِ مطلق), variously translated as the Lieutenant Plenipotentiary,[1] the Regent Plenipotentiary,[2] the Vicegerent[3] or the Imperial Regent, was an important office in the Government of the Mughal Empire, first in ministerial hierarchy and only next to Mughal Emperor.

[4] The Vakil was considered as the Emperor's lieutenant in all matters connected with the realm and household.

During the era of Babur and Humayun, he had the powers of prime minister while early in the reign of Akbar, Vakil Bairam Khan acted as regent and ruled on the behalf of Emperor.

[6] In 1564, Akbar revived the office of Vakil and didn't give him the responsibilities of finance department.

[7] In the reign of Jahangir, the office of Imperial Diwan gained prominence and ultimately during Shah Jahan's regime, the title of grand vizier was transferred from Vakil's office to Imperial Diwan.