If you have bought property in Spain, you have probably considered its upkeep, taxes, and other management aspects. However, inheritance planning in Spain is a crucial matter that many foreign owners tend to overlook. Upon death, assets held in Spain are subject to an inheritance procedure, which can be expensive and complicated without the right preparation. The most effective solution is to draw up a Spanish will that governs only the distribution of your assets in Spain.
The importance of having a Spanish will
Many people assume that a will made in their home country is enough to cover their assets abroad. However, this is not always the case, as national laws may defer to Spanish legislation. In such situations, Spanish regulations may differ significantly from those of their home country, and heirs could face lengthy, costly, and unnecessarily complex legal procedures.
The main benefits of drawing up a will in Spain:
- Avoid lengthy and bureaucratic inheritance procedures.
- Ensure your assets are passed on to the people you choose.
- Reduce the tax burden on your heirs by minimising inheritance taxes.
- Simplify the legal and notarial management of your estate in Spain.
What happens if there is no will?
If you die without making a will, your estate will be distributed according to the rules of legal succession — which may not reflect your wishes. In addition, your heirs may face:
- A higher tax burden, along with additional legal and notarial costs.
- Delays in transferring assets due to the need to legalise foreign documents.
- Uncertainty over applicable laws, potentially leading to legal disputes.
We help you protect your legacy in Spain
At AGM Abogados, we specialise in international inheritance law and can guide you through the process of drafting a valid will in Spain — providing you with peace of mind and legal certainty.
Contact AGM Abogados and start planning your estate in Spain with confidence.
