Inheritance & Succession in Spain

How Spanish Succession Law Affects U.S. Owners and Heirs

Owning a second home, bank accounts or other assets in Spain can bring part of your estate under Spanish law, even if you live in the United States. Spain applies the EU Succession Regulation, under which the law of a person's habitual residence generally governs the succession unless that person has chosen the law of their nationality. Spanish law also reserves part of an estate for certain close relatives (the legítima), and inheritance tax rules vary from one region to another. Planning ahead helps your family avoid delay, unexpected taxes and disputes.

Our Spanish Inheritance and Succession Services

• Advice on international succession (sucesión internacional) and choice of law for foreign owners of Spanish property.
• Spanish inheritance tax (Impuesto sobre Sucesiones y Donaciones) matters, including regional rules in Madrid, the Costa del Sol, Catalonia and Andalusia.
• Coordination with Spanish notaries (notaría), the registry of heirs and local authorities, and with regional differences in forced-heirship (legítima) obligations.
• Bilingual wills prepared to work with Spanish law and with your U.S. estate plan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Property and Inheritance in Spain

Which country's law applies to my Spanish property?

That depends on your circumstances, including where you live and whether you have chosen the law that will govern your estate. Under the EU Succession Regulation the default is generally the law of your habitual residence at death, but you can often choose the law of your nationality. We review your situation and explain your options.

Can I leave my Spanish property to anyone I choose?

Not always. Spanish law reserves a portion of an estate for certain close relatives, and the rules differ between regions. Careful planning addresses these rules and reduces surprises for your family.

Do I need a Spanish will in addition to my U.S. will?

Many owners of Spanish property find it useful to have a will that is recognized in Spain and coordinated with their U.S. documents, so the two do not conflict. Whether you need one depends on your assets and your family.

Related Resources

• International estates and inheritance
• Spanish citizenship by descent
• Cross-border inheritance planning: choosing the right law for your estate
• Other country guides: Portugal, Italy, France and Germany

Contact us today for a free initial consultation on your European estate or cross-border succession matter. Our bilingual team and international network help ensure a smooth transition for your estate across the U.S. and Europe.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Foreign law changes, and every estate is different.