Greek Wills vs Foreign Wills: What Is Legally Valid in Greece?

Many foreign nationals own property in Greece, but not all wills are automatically valid under Greek law.

Are foreign wills recognized in Greece?

Yes, but only if:

  • They comply with international private law rules

  • They do not violate mandatory Greek inheritance provisions

  • They are properly legalized and translated

Forced heirship rules

Greek law protects certain heirs (spouse, children) regardless of a will’s content.

Why legal review matters

An invalid or poorly drafted will can cause:

  • Delays

  • Legal disputes

  • Partial invalidation