Own property in Spain but live abroad? This one mistake could ruin your inheritance

This one mistake could ruin your inheritance

“We never imagined our kids would face such chaos just to inherit our home in Spain.”

This story repeats itself every day.
Foreigners who bought a second home in the Costa Blanca, enjoyed it for years, and assumed their will back home would be enough.

But when the time comes… it’s not.

The dangerous assumption

If you live abroad but own real estate in Spain, you might think:

  • “My UK/US/German/French will already covers it”
  • “Everything will go to my children anyway”
  • “We’ll figure it out when the time comes”

Wrong.

Spanish inheritance law doesn’t work like that.
Even with a foreign will, your heirs could face:

  • Conflicting legal jurisdictions
  • Higher taxes and fees
  • Delays of 6–12 months or more
  • Expensive translations and certifications
  • Disputes between siblings or partners
  • Unexpected liabilities (like municipal taxes or debts)

What’s the solution?

Draft a Spanish will that complements your existing one.
Ensure your heirs are clearly named and protected under Spanish law.
Get guidance from inheritance experts who speak your language.

At CLF International Lawyers, we’ve helped hundreds of international families avoid future problems by planning correctly—before it’s too late.

We make it simple.
We speak your language.
We act now so your loved ones won’t suffer later.

The cost of not doing it?

Thousands in legal fees
Years of frustration
Broken relationships between heirs

Protecting your family starts with a single decision.

Need help drafting your Spanish will?

We offer:

  • Tailored estate planning for foreigners
  • Spanish and international will coordination
  • Legal validation of documents across countries
  • 24/7 multilingual support
  • Offices across the Costa Blanca

🔗 Get a free consultation with CLF International Lawyers

One call now can save your family months of pain later.

FAQ 

Can I have both a Spanish will and one in my home country?
Yes. They can coexist, and in most cases it’s the best way to simplify the process.

Is a Spanish will legally binding?
Absolutely—when properly drafted and notarised, it’s fully enforceable under Spanish law.

What if I die without a Spanish will?
Spanish law may still apply, but the process becomes longer, more expensive, and prone to errors or disputes.

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