Inheritance without a Will in Cyprus: potential difficulties?

Many people assume that if they don’t leave a will, their assets will automatically pass to their close relatives without any complications. However, the rules of intestate succession in Cyprus are far from simple and can lead to unexpected consequences.

Why is it important to have a Will in place?

Without a will, assets are distributed strictly according to the law, without considering the deceased’s personal wishes. As a result, property may go to individuals the deceased never intended to benefit, and legal disputes can drag on for years.

What challenges do Heirs face?

1. Restrictions on testamentary freedom

Unlike in many jurisdictions, Cyprus follows a forced heirship rules. This means that even if a Will exists, a portion of the estate is automatically reserved for certain relatives (spouse, children, parents). If there is no will, assets are distributed strictly according to the legal hierarchy, regardless of family circumstances.

2. Inheriting assets outside Cyprus

If the deceased owned property or had bank accounts with assets abroad, the process becomes more complicated. Conflicting laws, jurisdictional disputes, and lengthy recognition procedures can create significant legal obstacles.

3. Access to bank accounts and property

Without a Will, the deceased’s accounts and property may be frozen for months or even years. Heirs will need to go through a lengthy court process to unlock these assets, especially if there are disputes among potential beneficiaries.

4. Tax and administrative complexities

While Cyprus does not impose an inheritance tax, heirs may still face additional legal procedures, including stamp duty payments, property valuation, and etc. Without proper legal guidance and advance planning, these processes can become time-consuming and costly.

What do experts at Main Partner Trust recommend?

• Draft a Will – This is the minimum step everyone should take to ensure their assets go to the intended beneficiaries (while respecting forced heirship rules).
• Consult legal experts – Cyprus inheritance law is more complex than it seems. A specialist can help navigate legal nuances, prevent family disputes, and clarify matters for banks and financial institutions.
• Plan your asset ownership structure – If you own assets in multiple countries, operate a business, or have complex family dynamics, strategic inheritance planning is essential. You may also consider trust structures as an effective tool for both estate planning and asset protection.

Experts at Main Partner Trust remind you that without proper planning, intestate inheritance can turn into a lengthy and expensive process. If you want to protect your loved ones from legal complications, the best time to start planning is now.

Remark: The content of this article was accurate at the time of the first publication. It provides general information on the subject matter and is not intended as legal advice. For specific advice on your situation, we recommend seeking professional counsel. If you have any questions or need further information, please contact our experts at contact@mainpartner.com.

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