Inheritance & Succession
Understanding Inheritance Procedures in Greece
An overview of the steps heirs commonly encounter, from establishing the heirs to registering inherited property.
In preparation · awaiting legal review
Read ArticlePractice III
Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning
Helping clients plan the transfer of assets and understand the legal implications of their estate-planning decisions.
Overview
Thoughtful planning can spare families uncertainty and conflict. Under Greek law, the freedom to dispose of assets by will is subject to rules — including reserved shares for close relatives — that should be understood before decisions are made.
Trusts are not a native institution of Greek law. Where clients hold or are considering foreign trust structures, we review their treatment carefully and do not assume that any such structure will be recognised or effective in Greece.
When clients may need assistance
- You wish to prepare or update a will covering property in Greece.
- You want to understand how reserved shares affect your plans.
- You hold assets in more than one country.
- You have been named as an executor and need guidance.
- You wish to transfer property during your lifetime.
Documents you may wish to gather
- A summary of assets and their locations
- Existing wills or estate documents
- Family status records
- Details of any foreign trust or estate structures
How the process generally works
- 01
Understanding your goals
We discuss your family circumstances, assets, and objectives.
- 02
Legal analysis
We explain the applicable rules, including reserved shares and formal requirements for wills.
- 03
Drafting and review
We prepare or review documents and coordinate with notaries and tax advisers where appropriate.
- 04
Periodic review
We recommend revisiting plans when circumstances or the law change.
Qualifications & limitations
Estate planning involves tax and cross-border considerations that may require advice from other professionals. Information here is general and does not constitute advice.Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What types of will are recognised in Greece?
Greek law recognises several forms of will, including handwritten and public (notarial) wills, each with specific formal requirements.
Can I leave my entire estate to one person?
Close relatives may be entitled to a reserved share, which can limit how freely an estate may be disposed of. The position depends on the applicable law and family circumstances.
Are foreign trusts recognised in Greece?
The treatment of foreign trusts in Greece is complex and fact-dependent. They should never be assumed to be automatically recognised or effective.
FAQ answers are general information and are subject to review by a qualified lawyer.
Related reading
Property & Title
Why Property-Title Due Diligence Matters Before a Purchase
What a title review can reveal, and why discrepancies between registries deserve attention before you sign.
In preparation · awaiting legal review
Read ArticleCross-Border
Considerations for Foreign Heirs Inheriting Property in Greece
Documentation, translations, tax registration, and acting from abroad — the practical questions foreign heirs often raise.
In preparation · awaiting legal review
Read ArticleClarity Begins With a Conversation.
Tell us briefly about your inheritance, estate-planning, or property matter. Our office will review your inquiry and advise on the appropriate next step.