Inheritance in Cyprus

• This service is beneficial for both foreigners and Cypriot citizens involved in the inheritance process within Cyprus. 
• It caters to individuals navigating the succession of assets located in Cyprus, including those needing guidance on the unique aspects of Cyprus's forced heirship regime and the implications of the EU Succession Regulation.

• Key Legislation: The primary laws governing inheritance in Cyprus are the Wills and Succession Law (Cap. 195) and the Administration of Deceased’s Estate Law (Cap. 189), supplemented by the EU Succession Regulation (650/2012) for EU-related succession matters​​.
• Forced Heirship: Cyprus law dictates a forced heirship system, which mandates the division of an estate into disposable and compulsory sections. This system ensures that close relatives, such as the spouse and descendants, receive a guaranteed portion of the estate​​.
• Taxation: Since 2000, Cyprus does not impose an inheritance tax, offering an attractive regime for asset transfer upon death. However, transfer fees are applicable, varying based on the relationship between the deceased and the heir​​.

1. Estate Analysis: Assessing the estate composition and determining applicable laws based on the domicile of the deceased and the location of assets.
2. Document Preparation: Assisting in gathering necessary documents for the Declaration of Succession and ensuring compliance with Cyprus laws and, if applicable, EU regulations.
3. Legal Representation: Navigating the forced heirship rules, drafting wills within the legal constraints, and managing the compulsory division of the estate among entitled heirs.
4. Tax Guidance: Providing advice on transfer fee obligations and facilitating the efficient transfer of assets to heirs in line with Cyprus’s favourable tax regime.

• Expertise in Cypriot Law: Deep understanding of both domestic and EU succession regulations.
• Forced Heirship Guidance: Navigating Cyprus's unique forced heirship system to protect the rights of close relatives.
• Tax Efficiency: Maximizing the benefits of Cyprus’s no inheritance tax policy while ensuring compliance with transfer fee requirements.
• Bilingual Legal Support: Services offered in both English and Greek.

• Legal Heir Identification and Rights: Advising on the rights of legal heirs under Cypriot law.
• Trust and Will Consultation: Guidance on dealing with trusts and Wills in compliance with Cypriot legal standards.
• Inheritance Dispute Resolution: Assistance with resolving disputes and ensuring fair asset distribution.
• Estate Management and Asset Transfer: Managing estate affairs and facilitating asset transfer processes in Cyprus.

Understanding and navigating the inheritance laws in Cyprus require careful consideration of both national legislation and, where applicable, EU regulations. The absence of inheritance tax, combined with the forced heirship regime, presents unique opportunities and challenges for estate planning in Cyprus.