Legal security for cross-border inheritance cases involving Turkey
In a globalized world, inheritance law increasingly affects people with assets in multiple countries. Especially between English-speaking countries (UK, USA, etc.) and Turkey, complex questions arise in practice: Which law applies? Which court has jurisdiction? How can a Certificate of Inheritance be applied for in Turkey if the heirs live abroad? This is exactly where the work of an English-speaking lawyer for Turkish inheritance law begins. Our law firm Inheritance Turkey supports international clients in all inheritance and probate matters related to Turkey – professionally proficient, bilingual, and transparent.
Turkish inheritance law differs in significant points from Common Law (UK/USA) or other European systems. Without sound knowledge of the local system, there is a risk of formal errors, missed deadlines, or tax disadvantages. A lawyer specializing in international Turkish inheritance law knows not only the legal situation but also the practical implementation with authorities, notaries, and courts in Turkey.
While in many countries inheritance law is regulated by specific statutes, Turkish inheritance law is based on the Türk Medeni Kanunu (Turkish Civil Code). Decisive differences exist particularly in statutory succession, compulsory portion rights, and the form of wills.
In international Turkish inheritance cases, it is often necessary to clarify which country is responsible for the estate administration. Under private international law, jurisdiction often depends on the last habitual residence of the deceased or the location of the assets (especially real estate). Turkey is not a member of the EU, so national law applies there. In many cases, this can lead to parallel proceedings – one in your home country, one in Turkey.
A will made abroad can only be used in Turkey if it is valid in form and presented with an Apostille and certified translation. Conversely, many countries recognize Turkish wills if they comply with local form requirements. For cross-border assets, clear estate planning in both jurisdictions is therefore recommended.
For assets in Turkey, the first step is applying for a Veraset ilamı (Certificate of Inheritance). The competent authority is the Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi (Civil Court of Peace) at the last residence of the deceased or the location of the property. The application can be made by an authorized lawyer. Without this certificate, neither transfers of ownership in the land registry nor payouts of bank balances are possible.
The procedure usually takes between two and six weeks. Through professional preparation and complete documents, the process can be significantly accelerated.
Turkey levies its own Inheritance and Gift Tax (Veraset ve İntikal Vergisi). The tax rate depends on the degree of kinship and the value of the estate. Double taxation can often be avoided through tax credits or specific agreements. Tax advice from our firm ensures that all duties are calculated correctly and paid on time.
Our law firm regularly represents clients from the UK, USA, Europe, and worldwide. We work efficiently, transparently, and with a clear goal: the legally secure enforcement of your inheritance claim in Turkey.
Look for a law firm that operates internationally and has experience with cross-border inheritance cases – like Inheritance Turkey.
Yes, with a consularly notarized power of attorney, your lawyer in Turkey can handle the entire procedure.
The tax depends on the degree of kinship and the estate value. We check for double taxation treaties or credit mechanisms to avoid double taxation.
With complete documents usually 4–8 weeks; complex cases may take more time.
No. Through a power of attorney via the consulate, the entire procedure can be conducted by your law firm in Turkey.
Costs depend on the estate value and the effort. We offer transparent flat fees and contingency fees upon agreement.
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