How long does the inheritance process take in Greece?

The timeframe varies depending on the complexity of the estate, court schedules, and any cross-border considerations. It can range from a few months to over a year. Recent legal reforms in 2024 allow certain steps to be handled by appointed lawyers, which can speed up the process for non-resident heirs.

Can I reverse my decision to accept or reject an inheritance in Greece?

No. Once you have formally accepted or rejected an inheritance in Greece, the decision is legally binding and cannot be reversed. It is important to consult a lawyer before making your choice.

Are there special considerations for expats or heirs abroad handling Greek inheritance?

Yes. Non-resident heirs should be aware of cross-border tax implications, potential language barriers, and the need for remote handling of paperwork. Greek law now allows legal representatives to manage the process without the heir’s physical presence, simplifying acceptance or renunciation of inheritance.

Inheritance with the Benefit of Inventory in Greece

Kyveli Zahou
Aug 13
3 min read

What Is the Benefit of Inventory in Greek Inheritance Law?

Accepting an inheritance with the benefit of inventory means you inherit assets and debts but only pay debts up to the estate’s value.Your personal savings, property, and income are protected.

Example

If the estate holds €150,000 in assets but €200,000 in debts, you pay only €150,000 from the estate. The extra €50,000 is not your responsibility.

Step-by-Step Inheritance Process for Non-Resident Heirs

Step 1 – File the Declaration

Submit acceptance with the benefit of inventory to the court of the deceased’s last residence.
Deadlines:
- Residents: 4 months
- Non-residents: 12 months from learning of the inheritance

Step 2 – Compile the Inventory

The court supervises a full inventory of assets and debts.
Includes property, bank accounts, valuables, shares, loans, and obligations.
Lawyer and notary involvement is recommended.

Step 3 – Settle Liabilities

Creditors are paid only from estate assets.
Remaining assets go to heirs according to the will or Greek succession law.

Law Update 2024 – Faster Greek Inheritance Procedures for Heirs Abroad

Recent legal reforms (February 2024) shift several inheritance tasks from courts to appointed lawyers.

Key changes:

Certificate of inheritance (klironomitirio) can be issued by a lawyer from an official list.
Acceptance or renunciation of inheritance (including with benefit of inventory) may be done before a lawyer.
Digital court communication reduces the need for travel to Greece.

Impact for heirs abroad:

Quicker processing with strict deadlines for lawyers
No need for physical presence in some cases
Lawyer’s act can be challenged within 20 days

Benefits and Drawbacks of the Benefit of Inventory

Benefits for Heirs Abroad

✅ Debt Protection – No liability beyond estate value

✅ Transparency – Formal record of assets and debts

✅ Legal Safeguard – Court or appointed lawyer oversight

Drawbacks

⚠ Complex Process – Requires formal inventory procedure

⚠ Costs – Legal, notary, and appraisal fees apply

⚠ Deadlines – Strict filing limits; missing them loses protection

Greek Inheritance Tax Overview

Chart titled Greek Inheritance Tax at a Glance shows tax rules for Classes A, B, and C with different tax-free amounts and rates.

Tax Classes, Thresholds, and Rates

Class	Relationship	Tax-Free Threshold	Rates
A	Spouse, children, grandchildren	€150,000	1% (next €150k), 5% (next €300k), 10% (>€600k)
B	Parents, siblings, grandparents, nieces/nephews	€30,000	5% (next €70k), 10% (next €100k), 20% (>€200k)
C	All other heirs	€6,000	20% (next €59k), 30% (>€65k)

Example Tax Calculations

Class A – Child, €500,000 inheritance:

€150,000 tax-free
€150,000 @ 1% = €1,500
€200,000 @ 5% = €10,000Total tax: €11,500

Class B – Sibling, €80,000 inheritance:

€30,000 tax-free
€50,000 @ 5% = €2,500Total tax: €2,500

Class C – Friend, €100,000 inheritance:

€6,000 tax-free
€59,000 @ 20% = €11,800
€35,000 @ 30% = €10,500Total tax: €22,300

Tax Planning Tips for Heirs Abroad

Value assets early
Use the benefit of inventory to reduce taxable base
Spread assets among multiple heirs
Consider lifetime transfers
Meet all tax deadlines (6 months for residents, 12 months for non-residents)

📞 Need Help with Inheritance in Greece?

Handling an inheritance from abroad can be stressful — from understanding debts to meeting tight deadlines and navigating Greek inheritance tax.

Our legal team specialises in representing heirs abroad and managing the process from start to finish — including:

Filing acceptance with the benefit of inventory
Preparing and submitting the inventory of assets
Calculating and optimising inheritance tax
Handling all steps remotely without your physical presence in Greece

➡ Book your consultation today and get clarity on your inheritance situation before important deadlines expire. Contact kyveli@expatlaw.gr or call us at +306945551914

📌 Related reading: Inherited Property in Greece – Legal Steps for Non-Residents FAQ – Greek Inheritance for Heirs Abroad

How long does the process take?

A few months to over a year, depending on complexity. The 2024 law can speed it up.

Can I reverse my decision?

No — once accepted or rejected, it’s final.

Special considerations for heirs abroad?

Cross-border tax issues, language barriers, and ability to handle the process remotely.