New rules on Wills for Resident Expats

[Ian]

New rules via the EU concerning WILLS and RESIDENTS in EU countries have come into effect. This rule come in for people passing away after 17 August 2015.

When a person dies who is resident in another EU country and is a national of another country. The inheritance law will be followed by the rules of the country expressly stated in their Will and not by the International Norms of the country where they died or were resident, which may be in conflict.

In summary, if you are a resident in Spain, have children and you do not stipulate in your will that you want UK Law to rule your inheritance, your Spouse will not be entitled to inherit everything as it would be contrary to the Spanish rules of inheritance. Spanish inheritance rules would apply under the new regulation, as 2/3's of the estate would automatically be left to their children or other descendants.

Consider reviewing your Spanish wills, before 17th August 2015.

Regards Ian