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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 Valencia, Spain, you will need to deal with three important aspects: taxation, wills, and the probate process. Below is a clear guide for expats and residents.
1. Inheritance and Gift Tax in Valencia
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Valencia applies its own rules for inheritance and gift tax:
- Close family — children, spouses and parents (Groups I and II) — benefit from a 99% bonificación (rebate) on the inheritance tax due in Valencia, in force since 2023, so the effective tax is minimal.
- Additional reductions may apply for disability, family businesses, or main residence.
- From 1 June 2026, siblings, aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews (Group III) also gain a 25% bonificación (Valencia Law 5/2025), rising to 50% from 1 June 2027.
For gifts (donations): close family (Groups I and II) also benefit from a 99% bonificación on gift tax in Valencia, provided the gift is formalised before a notary.
Examples:
- A child inheriting €250,000 → after Valencia’s 99% bonificación, pays only about 1% of the standard tax (a few hundred euros, versus tens of thousands without the rebate).
- A sibling inheriting from 1 June 2026 (Group III) → benefits from the new 25% bonificación on the tax due.
2. Making a Will in Valencia
- Foreigners with property or assets in Valencia should strongly consider making a Spanish will.
- Thanks to EU Regulation 650/2012, you can choose your national law to apply to your inheritance.
- Making a Spanish will helps avoid delays, conflicts, and simplifies the probate process.
- Wills are signed before a notary and registered in the Central Registry of Wills.
3. Executing an Inheritance in Valencia (Probate Process)
The probate process in Valencia normally involves:
- Obtaining the death certificate.
- Requesting the certificate of last will (Certificado de Últimas Voluntades).
- Collecting asset information (real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, investments).
- Inheritance deed signed at a notary (escritura de aceptación de herencia).
- Inheritance tax filing within 6 months (extensions available).
- Property registration if real estate is inherited.
Average timeframe: 3–6 months, depending on documentation and family agreement.
Do you have questions about inheritance in Valencia?
Spanish inheritance law can be complex, especially for foreigners.
👉 Whether you need help with making a will, calculating inheritance tax, or executing an inheritance, contact us and we will assist you.
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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Reviewed by María Luisa de Castro, CEO at CostaLuz Lawyers — Updated 2026
This is general information, not definitive legal advice — every case requires individual analysis.