For foreign citizens who own property in Spain, ensuring their assets are protected and their wishes are upheld requires a vital legal step: making a Spanish will. This essential document can prevent complications and uncertainties for both the property owners and their heirs.

Key reasons for citizens from other nationalities to grant a Spanish will include:

  1. Legal Clarity

A Spanish will shall ensure that the intentions for the distribution of the Spanish assets are legally recognized. Without one, Spanish inheritance laws may apply, potentially leading to outcomes that differ from the wishes of the deceased.

  1. Avoiding Delays and Costs

In the absence of a Spanish will, the process of inheriting property in Spain can become lengthy and costly. The legal procedures involved can cause delays, additional expenses, and unnecessary stress for heirs.

  1. Legal Compliance and Tax Efficiency

Spanish inheritance laws and procedures differ from those in other countries. A well-drafted Spanish will can help minimize tax liabilities, potentially reducing the financial burden on heirs and safeguarding the overall value of the estate.

  1. Protecting Loved Ones

With a Spanish will you can ensure that your loved ones are protected and receive the intended inheritance without legal disputes or challenges. A will also allows you to make specific bequests and arrangements for family members, friends, or charities.

  1. Peace of Mind

By taking the proactive step of signing a Spanish will, foreign property owners can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their wishes will be respected, and their loved ones will not be burdened with legal complexities during an already emotional time.

How to Grant a Spanish Will

If you wish to sign a will in Spain, we recommend that you seek advice from a local solicitor or notary public experienced in international estate planning. These professionals can provide expert advice, ensure your will complies with Spanish law, and guide you through the process efficiently.

At Real(i)ty & Law, we are experts in international estate planning and Spanish property law, and can assist citizens of any country in creating a legally compliant Spanish will, addressing their unique needs and preferences.