Owning property or living in Greece long-term? It’s essential to understand how inheritance law applies to foreigners. Greek inheritance law blends civil code principles with EU regulations, and failing to plan properly can lead to delays, disputes, or unintended outcomes.
🏛️ Greek Inheritance Law Basics
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Civil Law System: Greece follows a strict legal framework where forced heirship applies.
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Applicable Law: Under EU Regulation 650/2012 (Brussels IV), expats can choose the law of their nationality to govern their estate.
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No Inheritance Tax-Free Threshold: Tax applies even on small inheritances.
đź“ť Key Documents for Foreigners
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Will: You can draft a Greek will or a foreign will that’s valid in Greece (must follow formalities).
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EU Certificate of Succession: Simplifies estate settlement across borders.
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Land Registry Records: Essential for heirs of Greek property.
đź‘Ą Who Inherits If No Will Exists?
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Spouse & Children are first in line.
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If no children: Spouse and parents/siblings.
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No heirs? Estate passes to the Greek state.
🧾 Inheritance Tax in Greece
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Close relatives (spouse, children): 1–10%
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Distant relatives/friends: Higher brackets (up to 40%)
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Tax is assessed on the value of the estate, including real estate, bank accounts, and movable assets.
⚠️ Common Challenges for Foreign Heirs
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Unregistered property
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Missing wills or unclear terms
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Cross-border jurisdiction disputes
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Delays in obtaining probate or tax clearances
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Language barriers during legal filings
👨‍⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
Our legal team can assist with:
âś… Drafting and registering wills in Greece
âś… Inheritance tax declarations and payments
âś… Heir identification and property transfers
âś… Estate administration and legal representation
âś… Resolving disputes and enforcing rights
đź“Ś Pro Tip for Expats with Property in Greece
If you’re a foreign national with property in Greece, specify in your will which national law should apply. This simple step can avoid lengthy court battles and protect your intended heirs.
🤝 Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind
Greek inheritance law can be complex, but proper legal planning makes all the difference. Borderless Lawyers ensures your legacy is protected and passed on according to your wishes.