Inheriting Property in Cyprus – Legal Guide for Greek and Cypriot Expats

Inheriting Property in Cyprus: Legal Guidance for Greek and Cypriot Expats

H1: Inheriting Property in Cyprus – What Greek and Cypriot Expats Need to Know

H2: Introduction to Inheritance Law in Cyprus

When a loved one passes away in Cyprus, their property becomes part of the estate. For Greek and Cypriot expats living abroad—especially in the United States—understanding the legal framework is critical to claim, manage, or transfer inherited real estate.

Cyprus applies forced heirship rules, meaning part of the estate is reserved by law for certain heirs (e.g. spouse, children, parents). However, the exact legal process depends on the existence of a will, the domicile of the deceased, and whether the heirs are located abroad.

H2: With or Without a Will – What Changes?

H3: If There Is a Valid Will

• The will must be registered with the Cyprus court and proved through probate.

• The executor handles the property distribution according to the will.

• Legal representatives may act on behalf of heirs living abroad with a Power of Attorney.

H3: If There Is No Will (Intestacy)

• The estate is distributed by law according to degrees of kinship.

• The process is overseen by the court, and heirs must be identified and located.

• In some cases, family members abroad are required to provide affidavits and legal documents to claim their inheritance.

H2: Common Inheritance Scenarios for Expats

Greek and Cypriot expatriates often encounter these issues:

• Inheriting land or houses without knowing the property’s exact location or legal status

• Disputes between heirs (siblings, cousins, uncles, etc.)

• Need to sell inherited property remotely or transfer ownership

• Uncertainty about tax obligations and registration procedures

Our law firm has years of experience representing expats and resolving such complications without requiring travel to Cyprus.

H2: Legal Steps to Claim Inherited Property in Cyprus

1. Obtain Death Certificate & Heir Documents

   • This includes passports, ID cards, and any previous wills.

2. File for Probate or Intestacy

   • The process differs depending on the existence of a will.

3. Accept the Inheritance

   • Through a signed declaration or Power of Attorney

4. Register the Property

   • At the Department of Lands and Surveys in the heir’s name

5. Address Taxes and Fees

   • Even though Cyprus has no inheritance tax, other administrative fees may apply.

We handle all legal steps and court filings on your behalf.

H2: Can You Refuse the Inheritance?

Yes. If the estate includes debts or legal disputes, you have the right to formally renounce the inheritance within a specific time limit. This must be done via official declaration submitted to court.

H2: Why Work with E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC

We offer specialized legal services to expats who inherit property in Cyprus, including:

• Complete remote representation via Power of Attorney

• Probate filings, court procedures, and title registrations

• Handling sales or transfers of inherited property

• Legal communication in Greek or English, depending on your preference

• Support tailored to Greek and Cypriot-Americans

H2: Contact Our Legal Team Today

If you’ve inherited property in Cyprus or expect to, reach out to us for legal guidance.

Website: www.hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com

Email: info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com

U.S. Phone: +13474034789

We represent you in Cyprus – from anywhere in the world.