The new Greek inheritance law introduces strict deadlines and modernized procedures governing the publication of a will, the acceptance or renunciation of inheritance, inheritance tax obligations, and the liability of heirs for estate debts. Proper compliance with these steps is essential for anyone handling an estate in Greece, particularly for individuals abroad seeking guidance from a Greek inheritance lawyer or a Greek property inheritance lawyer.
1. Publication of the Will (Greek Probate Procedure)
The inheritance process begins with the publication of the will by a notary or competent court. Once published, heirs may seek legal guidance from a Greek inheritance attorney or a probate lawyer to review the contents and determine the appropriate next steps, including acceptance or renunciation of the estate.
2. Deadlines for Renunciation of Inheritance in Greece
Under the new Greek inheritance law, heirs must renounce the inheritance within strict statutory deadlines:
- 4 months if the deceased resided in Greece,
- 12 months if the deceased resided abroad.
If no action is taken within the deadline, the inheritance is considered accepted by default. For individuals living overseas, a Greek inheritance lawyer for expats can assist in filing the renunciation on time.
3. Acceptance of the Inheritance & Tax Filing
Acceptance of inheritance requires a notarial deed, and where real estate is involved, a mandatory registration with the Hellenic Cadastre. Heirs must also file the inheritance tax declaration:
- within 6 months (if the deceased lived in Greece),
- within 12 months (if the deceased lived abroad).
Late submissions trigger penalties and interest. Many heirs use the services of a real estate inheritance lawyer or an estate probate lawyer to avoid costly mistakes.
4. Acceptance with the Benefit of Inventory (Limited Liability)
The new Greek inheritance law allows heirs to accept the estate with the benefit of inventory, ensuring that the heir’s liability is limited strictly to the value of the estate. This process must begin within three months of acceptance. This option is often advised by a Greek inheritance attorney when there are concerns about undisclosed debts.
5. New Liability Rules for Estate Debts
The reformed inheritance framework introduces a major shift in the liability of heirs:
- The heir does not bear personal liability for estate debts.
- Creditors and the State may recover claims only from the estate assets.
- If estate debts exceed the value of the inheritance, the excess debt is automatically discharged.
- Personal liability arises only if the heir expressly declares that they intend to manage or dispose of the estate freely.
These protections are particularly important for individuals abroad seeking inheritance guidance for Greeks overseas or navigating the process with a Greek inheritance lawyer.
6. Estate Liquidation (Judicial or Administrative)
If disputes arise or the financial condition of the estate is unclear, a court may order judicial liquidation:
- The estate is separated from the heir’s personal assets.
- A liquidator administers all estate property.
- The heir may not dispose of any estate asset during liquidation; doing so may trigger personal liability.
A new administrative, streamlined mechanism allows for non-judicial liquidation, offering faster and more transparent resolution—especially useful in cases involving probate lawyer Greece consultations or complex succession law Greece matters.
7. Property Registration & Creditor Notification
Every property included in the inheritance must be registered with the Cadastre within six months of acceptance.
Creditors must file claims within one year of the deceased’s death, failing which the claims are forfeited—an area often handled by a Greek property inheritance lawyer.
8. Completion of Estate Administration
The full liquidation and settlement of the estate must be completed within twelve months of acceptance. Once completed, heirs receive the inheritance certificate Greece, allowing them to finalize the transfer of assets.