Cyprus Forced Heirship Rules Explained for Greek-Cypriots in the U.S.
If you’re a Greek-Cypriot living in the United States and are involved in an inheritance case in Cyprus, it’s essential to understand how forced heirship works. Unlike in the U.S. where you can leave your entire estate to whomever you wish, Cyprus inheritance law automatically reserves shares of your estate for certain close relatives.
At E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC, we help Greek and Cypriot expatriates navigate inheritance matters in both Cyprus and Greece. We offer online consultations, speak Greek, and provide legal representation across all districts of Cyprus.
Contact (U.S.): +13474034789
Website: www.hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
What Is Forced Heirship in Cyprus?
Forced heirship is a legal rule that limits how much of your estate you can freely give away by will. A portion of your estate is legally reserved for your spouse, children, and parents. This is known as the “statutory portion.”
Unless you fall under one of the legal exceptions (such as being born or domiciled in the U.K. or U.S. with foreign assets only), these rules apply even if you make a will in Cyprus.
Who Has the Right to a Reserved Share?
The following heirs are entitled by law to a fixed portion of your estate:
•Spouse
•Children (including legally recognized adopted children)
•Parents (if no children exist)
These heirs cannot be disinherited, except in very limited and proven cases (e.g. abandonment or severe misconduct).
What Part of My Estate Is Reserved?
Cypriot law divides the estate into:
•Statutory portion: This part is automatically distributed to your legal heirs.
•Disposable portion: This is the share you may leave to anyone through a will.
If you attempt to leave more than the disposable portion to a non-heir, your will may be partially invalid.
Can I Challenge a Will in Cyprus?
Yes. Heirs who are legally entitled to a share may challenge a will if:
•They were left out entirely
•They received less than their statutory share
The challenge can be filed in the Cypriot courts and usually involves detailed estate valuation and legal representation.
We assist heirs from the U.S. in protecting their rights under Cypriot law.
How We Help at E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC
•We offer remote legal services for Cypriot inheritance cases
•We handle will interpretation, challenges, and estate distribution
•We serve clients throughout Cyprus and Greece
•Our lawyers speak Greek and English
•We provide video consultations and manage your case fully online
Call us at +13474034789 or email us to book a consultation and protect your inheritance rights.
E CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC – Legal Support for Greeks and Cypriots Abroad