How to Renounce an Inheritance in Greece – Legal Guide for Greek-Americans
Greek-Americans who inherit property in Greece may choose to renounce their inheritance due to outstanding debts or financial burdens attached to the estate. Greek inheritance law sets strict deadlines and procedural requirements for renouncing an inheritance. If you are an heir living abroad, understanding these legal steps is essential. This guide explains the legal framework, deadlines, and necessary steps for inheritance renunciation in Greece, including special provisions for expatriates and minors.
Why Would You Renounce an Inheritance in Greece?
Renouncing an inheritance is a legal right in Greece and is often necessary under certain circumstances:
•The estate has significant debts or financial obligations.
•The heir does not wish to assume responsibility for managing inherited assets.
•The heir wants to protect personal assets from liabilities linked to the estate.
Failing to renounce an inheritance within the legal deadline can result in automatic acceptance of all assets and debts associated with the estate.
Legal Process for Renouncing an Inheritance in Greece
Greek law mandates that heirs follow a specific legal process and meet strict deadlines for inheritance renunciation. The time limit for renunciation depends on the heir’s place of residence:
•Greek Residents – Must file the renunciation within four months from the date of death or from the moment they became aware of the inheritance.
•Greek Expats in the U.S. – Have a twelve-month deadline to renounce their inheritance.
Steps to Renounce an Inheritance in Greece
1. File the Renunciation Declaration
•Submit the official renunciation at the Court of First Instance (Peace Court) of the deceased’s last known residence in Greece.
2. Gather the Required Documents
•Death certificate of the deceased.
• Proof of identity of the heir.
•Family status certificate proving the heir’s relationship to the deceased.
3. Hire a Greek Inheritance Lawyer
•A lawyer ensures the correct legal procedures are followed and prevents errors that could result in unwanted acceptance of the inheritance.
4. Grant Power of Attorney for Non-Residents
•Greek-Americans can authorize a lawyer in Greece to handle the renunciation process on their behalf without traveling.
Renouncing Inheritance for Greek Expats in the U.S.
Greek-Americans who want to renounce an inheritance in Greece must follow the structured legal process while living abroad. Since they have twelve months to file, they have more time to make a decision compared to Greek residents.
➡ Contact our law firm E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC via email at info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com or +13474034789 and one of our specialized associates will guide you through your case language of communication, preferably Greek.
Renouncing Inheritance for Minors in Greece
Minors cannot renounce an inheritance without court approval. Parents or legal guardians must petition the Greek court for permission to reject an inheritance on behalf of a minor heir.
Steps for Renouncing Inheritance for a Minor
1. File a Petition with the Greek Court
•Guardians must submit a formal request to renounce the inheritance on the minor’s behalf.
2. Submit Required Documents
•The minor’s birth certificate and the parents’ identification.
•The deceased’s death certificate and relevant inheritance documents.
3. Court Decision
•The Greek court will review whether renouncing the inheritance serves the minor’s best interests. Once approved, the renunciation is filed at the Peace Court.
➡ Contact our law firm E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC via email at info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com or +13474034789 and one of our specialized associates will guide you through your case language of communication, preferably Greek.
Legal and Tax Implications of Renouncing an Inheritance
Renouncing an inheritance in Greece has legal and financial consequences. Once the process is complete:
•The heir loses all rights to the inheritance.
• The next-in-line heirs automatically inherit the estate.
•Outstanding tax obligations transfer to the heirs who accept the inheritance.
Key Considerations
✔ Irrevocable Decision – Once renounced, the inheritance cannot be reclaimed.
✔ Tax Obligations – Accepted inheritances are subject to Greek inheritance taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inheritance Renunciation in Greece
1. How long does the renunciation process take?
•The renunciation must be filed within four months for Greek residents and twelve months for expats.
2. Can a minor renounce an inheritance?
•Yes, but court approval is required through the minor’s legal guardians.
3. What are the options for Greek-Americans renouncing an inheritance?
•They can authorize a Greek lawyer via power of attorney or submit the renunciation through a Greek consulate.
4. Why do heirs renounce inheritance in Greece?
• The main reasons include excessive debts, tax burdens, or financial liabilities tied to the estate.
➡ Contact our law firm E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC via email at info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com or +13474034789 and one of our specialized associates will guide you through your case language of communication, preferably Greek.
Why You Need a Greek Inheritance Lawyer
Navigating Greek inheritance law from abroad is complicated. Working with an experienced Greek inheritance attorney ensures:
✔ You can renounce an inheritance without traveling to Greece.
✔ All legal and tax requirements are properly handled.
✔ Your renunciation is legally valid and irreversible.
✔ You avoid bureaucratic delays and legal issues.
➡ Contact our law firm E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC via email at info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com or +13474034789 and one of our specialized associates will guide you through your case language of communication, preferably Greek.