Greek Inheritance Process: How Greek-Americans Can Accept an Inheritance in Greece
Legal Assistance for Accepting Inheritance in Greece
If you are a Greek-American heir and need help with accepting an inheritance in Greece, our law firm, E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC, specializes in Greek inheritance law. We handle the entire legal process remotely, so you do not need to travel to Greece.
We offer online legal consultations and manage inheritance cases in Greece and Cyprus efficiently.
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.
What Is the Inheritance Acceptance Process in Greece?
Inheritance acceptance is the official legal procedure where an heir formally accepts the estate left by the deceased. In Greece, inheritance includes real estate, bank accounts, investments, and debts associated with the estate.
If the inheritance contains real estate, registration in the Greek Land Registry is required to secure legal ownership.
Step-by-Step Process for Greek-Americans Accepting Inheritance in Greece
1️⃣ Collecting the Required Documents
To initiate the process, the following documents must be gathered:
✔ Greek Death Certificate
✔ Certificate of Next of Kin
✔ Certificate of No Published Will
✔ Copy of the Will (if applicable)
Important: Documents issued in the U.S. must have an Apostille certification and be officially translated into Greek.
2️⃣ Signing the Notarial Deed of Inheritance Acceptance
The heir must sign a notarial deed of inheritance acceptance in Greece. If they cannot travel, they can grant a power of attorney to a lawyer to act on their behalf.
The notarial deed includes:
✔ A detailed description of the inherited assets
✔ A declaration accepting or disclaiming the inheritance
3️⃣ Filing the Inheritance Tax Declaration with the Greek Tax Authorities (DOY)
Within six months (or twelve months if the deceased passed away abroad), the heir must submit an inheritance tax declaration to the Greek tax office (DOY).
✔ The value of the inherited assets is assessed
✔ Any applicable inheritance tax is calculated and paid
Failure to submit the tax declaration on time may result in penalties.
4️⃣ Registering Property in the Greek Land Registry
Once the inheritance acceptance deed is signed, all real estate assets must be registered in the Greek Land Registry to legally transfer ownership to the heirs.
✔ Application for property transfer is submitted to the Land Registry or Cadastre
✔ The property is officially recorded under the heir’s name
Without registration, heirs cannot sell, transfer, or manage the property.
Key Considerations for Accepting Inheritance in Greece
Limited Liability Inheritance Acceptance (With the Benefit of Inventory)
If the inheritance contains debts, heirs can accept it with the benefit of inventory, meaning they are only liable up to the value of the inherited assets. This protects their personal assets from potential financial risks.
Deadline for Accepting Inheritance
The inheritance must be accepted within four months from the moment the heir is informed of the inheritance and the death of the deceased. If they reside abroad, the deadline extends to twelve months.
Why You Need a Greek Inheritance Lawyer
The inheritance process in Greece involves complex legal and bureaucratic procedures. Working with an experienced inheritance lawyer ensures everything is handled correctly, avoiding delays and legal issues.
Experienced Greek Inheritance Lawyers – We Handle Everything Remotely
Our law firm specializes in Greek inheritance law and provides full legal assistance for accepting inheritance in Greece. From document collection to final property registration, we handle every step to protect your rights and ensure a smooth process.
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.