A Spanish will (testamento) is a formal legal document that specifies how your Spanish property and assets will be distributed after your death. As a foreign property owner in Spain, you need a Spanish will to ensure your wishes are clearly documented under Spanish law, avoid lengthy probate delays, prevent forced heirship complications, and minimize inheritance taxes.
Purchasing property in Spain as a foreign investor or retiree is increasingly common, particularly on the Costa Blanca where thousands of British, Scandinavian, and other European nationals own homes. However, many of these property owners overlook a critical legal document: a Spanish will (testamento). While international property owners often assume their home-country will covers all their assets, this assumption creates significant complications when property is held in Spain. Spanish inheritance law operates independently of your home country's succession system and imposes forced heirship rules that may conflict with your wishes. Additionally, without a Spanish will, your Spanish property undergoes a lengthy probate process (sucesión) in Spanish courts, delaying transfer to heirs and incurring substantial legal and tax costs. This guide explains why a Spanish will is essential for property owners, how it interacts with EU Succession Regulation 650/2012, the process of creating one, what to include, and how it complements wills in your home country.
Why a Spanish Will Matters for Property Owners
EU Succession Regulation 650/2012: Choosing Your Applicable Law
How to Create a Spanish Will (Testamento)
Forced Heirship and Succession Rules
Tax Implications and Planning
Updating Your Will and Revocation
Practical Considerations and Action Plan
The Bottom Line
As a foreign property owner in Spain, a Spanish will is not a luxury or afterthought—it is essential protection for your assets and peace of mind for your heirs. Spanish law operates independently from your home country's law, imposing rules (such as forced heirship) that may conflict with your wishes. Without a Spanish will, your property undergoes lengthy intestate succession, delaying transfer to heirs and incurring substantial costs. Creating a Spanish will is quick and inexpensive (€100–€250 at a local notary) and provides clarity on your intentions while streamlining your heirs' options after you pass. Consider electing Spanish law under EU Regulation 650/2012 for your Spanish assets, which simplifies succession and avoids apostille delays. Work with a Spanish succession lawyer to understand forced heirship rules and structure your will optimally. Coordinate your Spanish will with any will in your home country to ensure consistency. Most importantly, do not delay—create your Spanish will as part of your post-purchase checklist when you buy property on the Costa Blanca. Your heirs will thank you for providing clarity and protection during an already difficult time.