Conseils d’experts sur cross border inheritance succession par Tomas Ballestero Avocats — plus de 20 ans d’expérience pour accompagner les ressortissants étrangers dans le système juridique espagnol depuis notre cabinet à Jávea, Costa Blanca.
Cross-border inheritance cases involving assets in Spain and other countries are among the most complex areas of succession law. When a person dies leaving property or financial assets in multiple jurisdictions, the heirs face the challenge of navigating different legal systems, tax regimes, and procedural requirements simultaneously. The EU Succession Regulation has simplified some aspects, but professional legal guidance remains essential.
How the EU Succession Regulation Applies
The EU Succession Regulation (Brussels IV) establishes that the law of the deceased’s habitual residence at the time of death governs the succession of their entire estate. However, individuals can elect the law of their nationality to apply instead. This regulation is recognised across most EU member states, but the UK — a common country of origin for property owners in Spain — is not bound by it, which can create additional complications.
Challenges in Multi-Jurisdiction Estates
When assets are spread across countries, heirs may face conflicting inheritance laws, double taxation risks, and the need to obtain multiple grants of probate or equivalent documents. Each jurisdiction has its own requirements for death certificates, wills, tax declarations, and property transfers. Coordinating these processes requires careful planning and specialist knowledge.
Avoiding Double Taxation
Spain has double taxation treaties with several countries that can prevent heirs from being taxed twice on the same inheritance. However, the application of these treaties is not automatic and requires proper documentation and declarations. A lawyer experienced in cross-border succession can ensure you benefit from all available tax relief.
The Importance of a Spanish Will
Having a separate Spanish will that covers your assets in Spain is one of the most effective ways to simplify a cross-border inheritance. It avoids the need to probate a foreign will in Spain, speeds up the process, and reduces costs. Your Spanish will should be coordinated with any wills in other countries to avoid conflicts.
For advice on cross-border inheritance matters, call +34 965 792 946 or email info@lawyerssolicitorsjavea.com. See our inheritance legal services.
Besoin d’aide pour une succession en Espagne ? Contactez nos Inheritance & Wills Lawyers pour une assistance juridique experte sur la Costa Blanca.
Droit des Successions pour les Etrangers a Costa Blanca
Les questions de succession en Espagne peuvent etre complexes, en particulier pour les ressortissants etrangers soumis a la fois au droit successoral espagnol et a celui de leur pays d’origine. Un accompagnement juridique professionnel est essentiel.
Notre cabinet assiste dans la preparation de testaments espagnols, le traitement de l’acceptation d’heritage et le calcul des droits de succession. Nous collaborons avec des avocats d’autres juridictions pour une approche coordonnee.
Planification Successorale
Avoir un testament espagnol couvrant vos biens en Espagne peut simplifier considerablement le processus de succession pour vos beneficiaires. Contactez notre bureau a Costa Blanca.
