Succession and Inheritance in France
Dealing with inheritance in France can be complex, especially if you live abroad or are unfamiliar with French legal procedures. French succession law follows strict rules that may differ significantly from those in your home country.
FrenchNotaires helps you connect with English-speaking notaires who can guide you through the inheritance process in France, clearly and securely.
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When someone passes away with assets in France — such as property, bank accounts, or investments — a formal succession process must take place to transfer ownership to the heirs.
Why inheritance in France is different
France applies a civil law system with structured inheritance rules designed to protect certain heirs.
This includes:
✅ Mandatory rights for children (forced heirship)
✅ Defined legal procedures for transferring ownership
✅ Formal involvement of a notaire
This means inheritance in France is not automatic.
👉 A legal process must be completed before assets can be transferred or sold.
What Are the Steps of a succession in France?
1
Identification of heirs
The notaire establishes who the legal heirs are based on:
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French inheritance law
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Any existing will
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International legal considerations
In some cases, additional research may be required to confirm heirship.
2
Assessment of the estate
The notaire identifies and values all assets, including:
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Real estate property
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Bank accounts
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Investments
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Debts and liabilities
This step determines the overall value of the estate.
3
Preparation of legal documents
Several documents are required to formalise the succession, including:
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Certificate of inheritance
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Property ownership updates
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Tax declarations
The notaire prepares and validates these documents.
4
Payment of inheritance taxes
Inheritance tax may apply depending on:
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The relationship between the deceased and the heirs
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The value of the estate
Deadlines apply, and the notaire ensures compliance with French tax rules.
5
Transfer of ownership
Once all steps are completed:
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Assets are transferred to the heirs
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Property ownership is updated
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The estate is legally settled
Inheritance for non-residents
Many succession cases in France involve international families.
You may be concerned if:
✅ You live in the UK, US, or another country
✅ The deceased owned property in France
✅ Heirs are located in multiple countries
In these cases, additional complexities may arise:
❌ Multiple legal systems
❌ Cross-border tax considerations
❌ Language barriers
👉 Working with an English-speaking notaire is essential.
Can you sell inherited property in France?
Yes, but only after the succession process is completed.
Before selling, the notaire must:
✅ Confirm ownership rights
✅ Register the heirs
✅ Update the land registry
Only then can the property be legally sold.
How long does a succession take?
The duration depends on the complexity of the estate.
Typical timelines:
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Simple cases: a few months
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Complex or international cases: longer
Delays may occur due to:
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Missing documents
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Disputes between heirs
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Cross-border coordination
👉 Early preparation helps reduce delays.
Common mistakes to avoid
Many international clients face difficulties due to:
❌ Not understanding the succession process
❌ Delays in contacting a notaire
❌ Missing or incomplete documentation
❌ Lack of coordination between countries
👉 A notaire helps you avoid these issues and move forward with clarity.
FAQ - Real Estate in France
Do I need a notaire for inheritance in France?
Yes. A notaire is required to manage the legal transfer of assets.
Can inheritance be handled if I live abroad?
Yes. Many steps can be managed remotely with the help of a notaire.
What taxes apply to inheritance?
Inheritance tax depends on the relationship and the value of the estate.
Can I refuse an inheritance?
Yes. French law allows heirs to accept or refuse an inheritance.
Can a foreign will apply in France?
In some cases, but it must be reviewed by a notaire.