Inheriting Property in Greece as an Expat: Laws, Taxes & Essential Steps

If you’re an expat with Greek roots or family connections, the possibility of inheriting property or assets in Greece may be on your radar. However, navigating the process from abroad can feel overwhelming. This guide provides a general overview of how inheritance in Greece works—especially for those living outside the country.

⚠️ Please note: The information below is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Inheritance issues can be complex, and readers are encouraged to consult a qualified Greek lawyer for personalized support.

Understanding Greek Inheritance Law as a Foreign Heir

Inheritance in Greece is primarily governed by the Greek Civil Code. One key feature to be aware of is the concept of forced heirship, which differs significantly from inheritance laws in many other countries.

➤ What Is Forced Heirship?

Under Greek law, certain close relatives—such as children, spouses, and parents—may be entitled to a fixed portion of the estate, even if the deceased has drafted a will. This portion is protected and cannot be overridden in most cases.

➤ What If There’s No Will?

In the absence of a will, Greek intestate succession rules determine who inherits. Generally, the spouse and children are first in line, followed by other family members such as parents, siblings, or nieces and nephews. If there are no heirs, the estate may eventually pass to the Greek State.

Inheriting Property in Greece: General Steps for Expats

If you are a potential heir, the inheritance process may involve several formal steps.

While the specifics can vary, here is a general outline of the process:

Typical Steps Include:

1. Obtaining a death certificate
2. Determining whether a will exists, and where it’s registered (in Greece or abroad)
3. Gathering required documentation (e.g., personal IDs, family certificates)
4. Obtaining proof of inheritance status via a legal declaration or certificate
5. Filing necessary paperwork with the appropriate public offices in Greece
6. Declaring and paying applicable inheritance taxes
7. Registering the property in your name with the relevant land registry

These steps usually require the support of professionals familiar with Greek legal and administrative procedures.

Step-by-Step Guide to Inheriting Property in Greece for Expats

Inheritance tax in Greece depends on the relationship between the heir and the deceased. Tax rates and exemptions vary accordingly. Here are the main heir categories:

Do Expats Need a Will in Greece? Estate Planning Tips You Should Know

Creating a will that is recognized under Greek law may help simplify the inheritance process for your heirs. Some expats choose to draft a Greek will, while others opt for a will in their home country.

In Certain Cases, You Might Consider:

• Drafting a will specifically for assets located in Greece
• Having both a Greek will and one in your country of residence (dual wills)
• Ensuring foreign wills are properly translated and registered, if applicable

Local legal professionals can provide clarification on how different types of wills are treated under Greek law and when specialized planning might be necessary.

Potential Challenges for Foreign Heirs in Greece

While inheritance can be a positive event, there are some common challenges that foreign heirs should be aware of:

• Co-ownership of property with multiple heirs can complicate usage or sale
• Unclear property titles or lack of land registration in older estates
• Delays in accessing information or documentation from abroad
• Costs related to legal representation, taxes, and property transfer

Addressing these issues early with professional support may help reduce the risk of unexpected obstacles.

Transferring Inherited Assets from Greece to Another Country

In some cases, heirs may want to transfer funds or proceeds from a sale abroad. This process may involve:

• Declaring assets to Greek tax authorities
• Meeting banking requirements for foreign transfers
• Understanding cross-border tax implications (e.g., FATCA for U.S. citizens or CRS for EU citizens)

Each situation may be unique, and additional rules may apply depending on your country of residence.

‍When to Seek Legal Guidance

Because inheritance law in Greece can be complex—especially when foreign heirs, multiple properties, or unclear wills are involved—many individuals find it helpful to work with a Greek inheritance lawyer.

Legal professionals can typically assist with:

• Document collection and validation
• Representation during probate or legal declarations
• Property registration and tax documentation

Key Takeaways

Greek law includes forced heirship rules, which limit how property can be distributed, regardless of the wishes outlined in a will. For foreign heirs, claiming inherited property in Greece often involves several administrative and tax-related steps.

The applicable inheritance tax rates vary based on the heir’s relationship to the deceased, with certain exemptionsavailable. While not always required, drafting a Greek will can greatly simplify the process for families who own property in Greece. Given the complexities—especially in cross-border situations—seeking professional legal guidanceis strongly recommended.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Inheritance matters can vary significantly depending on personal circumstances, legal documents, and property type. It is strongly advised to consult a licensed Greek attorney or notary public for guidance specific to your situation.

Consulting a Greek inheritance professional is highly recommended to ensure you meet all criteria and deadlines. For more information on the process of inheriting property in Greece reach out to us by booking a free 15-minute discovery call.

Why Choose My Greek Expat Journey?

At My Greek Expat Journey, we assist expats from around the world in obtaining their residency permits and with handling paperwork such as inheritance. With a trusted network of top-rated accountants and lawyers, we ensure a smooth process free from scams. Our transparent communication, pay-as-you-go fees, and quick responses make relocating to Greece stress-free.