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This article forms part of the CostaLuz Lawyers blog and is published for general informational and educational purposes only. It was prepared with the assistance of artificial intelligence tools and, before publication, was substantively reviewed and editorially approved by Maria de Castro, a Spanish-qualified lawyer registered with the Cádiz Bar Association under number 2745, founder of CostaLuz Lawyers and the person responsible for the editorial review of the published content.
This article does not constitute legal, tax, immigration, employment, estate-planning or investment advice and does not replace an individual assessment and the professional work of the appropriate CostaLuz Lawyers specialist. No action or omission should be based solely on this information.
If you inherit property or assets in the Balearic Islands, Spain, you will need to deal with three essential aspects: taxation, wills, and the probate process. This guide provides a simple overview for expats and residents.
1. Inheritance and Gift Tax in the Balearic Islands
The Balearic Islands apply one of Spain’s most generous regimes: a 100% bonificación for close relatives, with no limit on the amount.
- Children, spouses and parents (Groups I and II) benefit from a 100% bonificación on the inheritance tax due, with no limit on the amount (in force since 18 July 2023), so these inheritances are effectively tax-free.
- Group III relatives (siblings, aunts/uncles, nieces/nephews) benefit from a 25% bonificación, rising to 50% where the deceased left no descendants.
- Gifts (donations) between parents and children can also benefit from significant reductions, if notarized.
Examples:
- A son inheriting €500,000 → pays nothing, as Groups I and II enjoy a 100% bonificación with no limit.
- A daughter inheriting €1,000,000 → also pays nothing; the 100% bonificación applies with no cap for children, spouses and parents.
2. Making a Will in the Balearic Islands
- Foreigners with property or assets in the Balearic Islands are strongly encouraged to make a Spanish will.
- Under EU Regulation 650/2012, you may choose your national law to govern your estate.
- A Spanish will prevents legal disputes and makes probate faster.
- Wills are signed before a Spanish notary and registered in the Central Registry of Wills.
3. Executing an Inheritance in the Balearic Islands (Probate Process)
The inheritance process usually involves the following steps:
- Death certificate of the deceased.
- Certificate of last will (Certificado de Últimas Voluntades).
- List of assets (bank accounts, property, vehicles, investments).
- Inheritance deed signed before a notary (escritura de aceptación de herencia).
- Inheritance tax declaration within 6 months (an extension may be requested).
- Update of the Land Registry if property is inherited.
Average timeframe: 3–6 months, depending on documentation and family agreement.
Do you have questions about inheritance in the Balearic Islands?
Spanish inheritance law can be complex, especially for foreigners.
👉 Whether you need help with designing your Spanish will in coordination with your wills abroad, understanding inheritance tax, or executing an inheritance, contact us and we will assist you step by step.
For a complete overview of wills and inheritance in Spain, see our Spanish Wills & Testament Guide 2026.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance purposes only and does not constitute personalised tax or legal advice. Each case must be assessed individually according to the client’s specific circumstances. It is essential to consult a qualified specialist before taking any action or making any decision.
Legal Notice: The content on this page is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No action should be taken based solely on this content without first seeking independent professional legal counsel. Each case requires individual assessment based on its specific circumstances. CostaLuz Lawyers accepts no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this content.
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