Wills & Inheritance for Expats in Spain
Most people aren’t searching for “Inheritance Lawyer Almeria”. You’re already thinking ahead.
We come to Spain for the sunshine, the slower pace, and the good life — and the last thing any of us wants to do is think about what happens when we’re gone. But taking the time to put your affairs in order is one of the kindest things you can do for the people you leave behind.
As an expat, your situation is often more complex than most — assets in multiple countries, family spread across borders, and two legal systems that may both apply to your estate. I help clients make a valid Spanish will, understand how inheritance law works here, and ensure your wishes are clearly documented and protected.
Why a Spanish will matters, even if you already have one at home
Many expats assume that a will made in their home country automatically covers their Spanish assets. In reality, having a separate Spanish will makes things much simpler for your loved ones — it avoids delays, translation costs, and confusion between two legal systems at a time when your family is already dealing with enough.
Why this matters more here than it might at home
In this part of Spain, due to the heat, funerals and cremations typically happen very quickly — often within 24 to 48 hours. That means your family could be making arrangements, dealing with paperwork, and trying to access accounts or property all at the same time, often while still adjusting to the news itself. Having things in place in advance — a valid will, clear instructions, and someone who knows the local processes — means there’s one less thing for them to navigate during an already overwhelming time.
What I help with
- Drafting a valid Spanish will that reflects your wishes
- Explaining how Spanish inheritance law applies to your situation, including EU rules that may let you choose the law of your home country to apply instead
- Coordinating with any existing wills you hold abroad, so everything works together rather than against each other
- Guiding your family through the inheritance process when the time comes — including paperwork, notaries, and tax matters
- Advice on inheritance tax in Andalucía, which has become much more favourable for close family in recent years
Every family is different
Whether you’re married, have children under 18 or perhaps older children (whether from a previous relationship, or living in a different country). Whether you own property jointly, or simply want to make sure a partner is looked after, I’ll understand your situation and put together something that genuinely fits — not a one-size-fits-all template.
A conversation, not a contract
There’s no pressure and no jargon. We’ll sit down, talk through what matters most to you, and take it from there at whatever pace feels comfortable.