Inheritance Lawyer in Alicante for American Citizens
Expert inheritance and estate law services for American citizens with property or assets in Alicante, Costa Blanca
Why Americans Need an Inheritance Lawyer in Alicante
Alicante is home to a significant American community, many of whom own property on the Costa Blanca. When a American citizen passes away owning assets in Spain, the estate is subject to Spanish succession law — regardless of any will made in USA. Spanish inheritance tax (Impuesto de Sucesiones) applies, with rates and allowances varying by the Valencia region’s own rules. Without proper legal guidance from a lawyer based in Alicante, families face delays, unexpected tax bills and potential disputes between heirs under two different legal systems.
Our Inheritance Services for Americans in Alicante
Estate Administration
Complete management of the Spanish probate process for American estates in Alicante. We obtain the certificate of last wills, manage the inheritance tax declaration and coordinate with the Land Registry to transfer property titles to the rightful heirs.
Cross-Border Succession
Navigating the interaction between USA and Spanish inheritance law. We advise on EU Succession Regulation 650/2012, applicable law elections and ensuring your USA will is recognised and effective in Spain.
Inheritance Tax Planning
Strategic advice on Spanish succession tax in the Valencia region, the US-Spain Tax Treaty provisions, available reductions for close relatives and how to minimise the overall tax burden on your Alicante estate.
Spanish Wills & Probate
Drafting complementary Spanish wills that work alongside your USA will, apostille and legalisation of foreign documents, and representation at the Alicante notary for the acceptance of inheritance deed (escritura de aceptación de herencia).
Inheritance Cases We Handle in Alicante
Playa de San Juan
Playa de San Juan, Alicante
Old Town
Old Town, Alicante
Cabo de las Huertas
Cabo de las Huertas, Alicante
Albufereta
Albufereta, Alicante
Vistahermosa
Vistahermosa, Alicante
Playa del Postiguet
Playa del Postiguet, Alicante
Golf Bahía
Golf Bahía, Alicante
Key Authorities for American Inheritance in Alicante
Registro de la Propiedad de Alicante
Title registration and estate property transfers
Notaría de Alicante
Inheritance acceptance deeds and notarial documents
Ayuntamiento de Alicante
Plusvalía municipal tax and local certificates
US Embassy Madrid
Consular death certificates and document legalisation
Frequently Asked Questions – Americans & Inheritance in Alicante
What happens when a American citizen dies owning property in Alicante?
Spanish succession law applies to the property in Alicante. An inheritance tax declaration must be filed within 6 months (extendable to 12). The estate must go through Spanish probate procedures before property titles can be transferred to heirs.
Do I need a Spanish will if I already have a USA will?
A complementary Spanish will covering your Alicante assets is strongly recommended. While a USA will can be used in Spain, it requires apostille, sworn translation and validation — causing significant delays and additional costs during an already difficult time.
How much is inheritance tax in Alicante?
Spanish inheritance tax in the Valencia region ranges from 7.65% to 34%, depending on the value inherited and the relationship to the deceased. Close relatives (spouse, children, parents) benefit from significant reductions. The Valencia region offers specific allowances that our lawyers will apply to minimise your liability.
Can I handle the inheritance from USA?
Yes. With an apostilled power of attorney, our Alicante lawyers can manage the entire process on your behalf — from obtaining the certificate of last wills to signing the inheritance deed at the notary and registering the property transfer.
What is the US-Spain Tax Treaty?
This bilateral agreement prevents double taxation on inheritance between Spain and USA. Tax paid in Spain can typically be credited against any inheritance tax liability in USA, ensuring heirs are not taxed twice on the same assets.
What documents are needed for Spanish inheritance?
You will need: death certificate (apostilled), certificate of last wills from the Spanish Ministry of Justice, the will (or declaration of intestacy), NIE numbers for all heirs, property deeds, bank statements and IBI tax receipts for the Alicante property.
Related Legal Services for Americans
Inheritance Law Guide
Complete guide to inheritance in Spain for American citizens
Buying Property
Legal guide to purchasing property in Spain
Spanish Wills
Making a will in Spain as a American citizen
Property Lawyer Alicante
Property conveyancing services in Alicante