Inheritance Acceptance & Cross-Border Succession in Greece
Inheritance acceptance is the legal act by which the named heir exercises their right to receive the assets of the deceased — and thus formally becomes the inheritor.
According to Regulation (EU) No 650/2012 of the European Parliament
and of the Council, which applies to successions of deceased persons and came into force in August 2015, the law applicable to the succession as a whole is, in principle, the law of the state in which the deceased had their habitual residence at the time of death, unless otherwise provided by the Regulation.
However, when it comes to the transfer of ownership of real estate located in Greece, Greek law is applicable. Therefore, in order to accept an inheritance involving real estate in Greece, heirs must formally accept it through a notarial deed drafted by a notary public in Greece, which must then be registered with the relevant cadastral office.
To complete this process, specific steps must be taken with the Tax Authorities (e.g. registering the death, declaring the beneficiaries, declaring the property to be inherited) and the Greek Courts (e.g. registering the will, obtaining a certificate of succession if needed). The notary must also be provided with all required documentation in order to draft the notarial act of acceptance.
Additionally, certain steps must be completed with the Tax Authorities and the bank to allow the beneficiaries to access the deceased’s bank accounts in Greece and collect any remaining balances.
If the deceased did not leave a will, the estate will be distributed according to the Rules of Intestacy, as defined by the applicable succession law.
In Greece, heirs must either accept or reject the entire inheritance. If an heir does not wish to accept the inheritance, they may formally disclaim it within a specific legal deadline. In cross-border successions, the law applicable to the succession will govern these issues, including time limits and conditions.
Beware of debts!
Under Greek law, heirs are generally unlimitedly liable for the debts of the deceased — not only with the inherited assets, but also with their personal property. To avoid this, an heir may declare an acceptance under benefit of inventory (limited liability), in which case they will only be liable up to the value of the inherited assets. Again, the law applicable to the succession will determine how this is handled in international cases.
Inheritance Tax (IHT)
Inheritance Tax is imposed on the estate of a deceased person, including all property, money, and possessions. Greece applies a progressive IHT rate, with exemptions available for spouses, civil partners, direct descendants, and certain other relatives. There is a Nil Rate Band (NRB) allowing a portion of the estate to be transferred tax-free.
Succession with Foreign Elements
When a succession involves foreign elements, the procedure can become more complex. For example, documents from the country where the deceased resided (such as an official copy of the will with probate granted, or a death certificate) may be required.
Additional actions may also be necessary — for instance, if the deceased was a Greek citizen residing abroad, their death must be registered with the Greek Consular Authorities in that country.
How We Can Help
Our skilled legal team can assist with:
• Drafting or updating your will to eliminate ambiguity and ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes
• Formal acceptance of inheritance
• Inheritance claims and disputes
• Contesting or defending contested wills
• Dealing with invalid wills
• Transfer of ownership of inherited assets
Our office has extensive experience in inheritance law, particularly in cases involving international or cross-border elements — such as when the deceased was a third-country national residing abroad, or of Greek origin living overseas.
When you entrust us with your inheritance matters, you can be confident that your affairs are being handled by specialist lawyers with significant experience in the field.
Inheritance Law Services in Athens
The Law Office of Marina Tzoganakous provides dedicated legal services in inheritance law in Athens. We support individuals and families through every stage of inheritance matters. Our practice focuses on clarity, accuracy, and legal protection. Therefore, clients receive reliable guidance during emotionally sensitive situations.
Overview of Greek Inheritance Law
Greek inheritance law follows specific statutory rules. For this reason, we explain the legal framework clearly and step by step. We advise clients on intestate succession, statutory shares, and forced heirship provisions. Moreover, we help heirs understand their legal position from the outset. As a result, clients can act with confidence and certainty.
Legal Advice for Heirs and Beneficiaries
Heirs often face important legal decisions. Therefore, we provide practical advice tailored to each case. We review family relationships, asset structures, and legal obligations. In addition, we clarify deadlines and procedural requirements. This approach helps clients avoid costly mistakes and delays.
Wills and Estate Planning Services
Proper estate planning helps prevent disputes. For this reason, we assist clients with drafting and reviewing wills under Greek law. We also advise on asset distribution and family arrangements. Furthermore, we support clients with cross-border estate planning when assets or heirs are located abroad. Consequently, clients achieve long-term legal certainty.
Acceptance or Renunciation of Inheritance
Heirs must decide whether to accept or renounce an inheritance within strict time limits. First, we assess the estate’s assets and liabilities. Then, we recommend the most suitable legal option. Moreover, we handle notarial acts and required filings. This structured process reduces risk and protects clients from unexpected obligations.
Inheritance Tax and Property Registration
Inheritance often involves tax and registration procedures. Therefore, we guide clients through inheritance tax declarations and payment obligations. We also assist with property registration and title transfers. By managing these steps carefully, we help clients avoid penalties and administrative complications.
Resolution of Inheritance Disputes
Disputes may arise between heirs or beneficiaries. When conflicts occur, we provide strategic legal advice and representation. We aim to resolve disputes efficiently and, when possible, amicably. However, we also pursue formal legal action when necessary to protect our clients’ rights.
Client-Focused Inheritance Legal Support
At the Law Office of Marina Tzoganakous, we prioritize direct communication and personal attention. We explain legal procedures in clear language and remain available throughout the process. Ultimately, our inheritance law services combine legal expertise with a respectful and client-centered approach.