Inheritance in Galicia: Wills, Probate and Taxes (2026)

2026 Update Note

As we enter 2026, the essential rules on inheritance tax across Spain remain broadly unchanged from 2025. No national reform has been approved, and regional governments continue to hold full authority over reductions, allowances and tax rates.

Two trends are worth noting for 2026:

1. The consolidation of the generous tax reliefs already in place in many regions, particularly for close relatives, and
2. A growing interest in extending benefits to wider family members in certain Autonomous Communities, although no uniform change has been enacted.

With this context in mind, the following guide provides a clear and practical overview of how inheritance works in Galicia in 2026.

If you inherit property or assets in Galicia, Spain, you will need to deal with three important aspects: taxation, wills, and the probate process. Here’s a simple guide for expats and residents.

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1. Inheritance and Gift Tax in Galicia

Galicia has one of the most generous inheritance tax regimes in Spain.

• Children, spouses and parents benefit from a €1,000,000 exemption on inheritance.
• If the inheritance is below €1,000,000, no tax is due.
• Tax is only applied to the portion exceeding the €1M threshold.

Examples:

• A son inheriting €500,000 → pays nothing.
• A daughter inheriting €1,200,000 → only pays tax on the €200,000 above €1,000,000.

For gifts (donations): significant reductions exist for transfers between close relatives, especially parents and children.

You can use this calculator to get an estimate of your 2026 Inheritance Tax in Galicia.

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2. Making a Will in Galicia

• Foreigners who own property or assets in Galicia are strongly advised to make a Spanish will.
• According to EU Regulation 650/2012, you may choose your national law to govern your estate.
• Having a Spanish will avoids delays, legal disputes, and speeds up inheritance procedures.
• Wills are signed before a Spanish notary and registered in the Central Registry of Wills.

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3. Executing an Inheritance in Galicia (Probate Process)

The inheritance process usually includes:

1. Death certificate of the deceased.
2. Last will certificate (Certificado de Últimas Voluntades).
3. List of assets (bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, investments).
4. Inheritance deed signed at a notary (escritura de aceptación de herencia).
5. Inheritance tax filing within 6 months (extensions can be requested).
6. Property registration at the Land Registry if real estate is inherited.

Average timeframe: 3–6 months, depending on documentation and family agreement.

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Do you have questions about inheritance in Galicia?

Spanish inheritance law can be complex, especially for foreigners.
Whether you need help with drafting a will, calculating 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.