Greece to implement major inheritance law reforms in 2026

Greece is set to implement a major reform of its inheritance law starting September 16, 2026. The new legal framework aims to enhance private autonomy, accelerate legal procedures, and modernize succession rules to better reflect contemporary social and economic conditions.

Key innovations include the introduction of inheritance contracts upon death, allowing two or more individuals to enter into binding agreements regarding the transfer of assets. This is expected to be particularly useful for family businesses and agricultural holdings. Additionally, the reform simplifies the process for public wills and introduces stricter controls for holographic wills, while allowing individuals aged 16 and older to draft wills.

Regarding intestate succession, the rights of spouses and cohabiting partners are being adjusted. A spouse will receive one-third of the inheritance if there is one child, and one-fourth if there are multiple children. In cases without children, the spouse will inherit the entire estate before parents or other relatives. Rights are also extended to partners in registered civil unions and unmarried partners in relationships lasting more than three years.

Furthermore, the reform changes how the 'legal share' is handled; heirs are no longer required to hold joint ownership of real estate and may instead request their share in cash. The new laws also provide greater protection against excessive debt, ensuring heirs are not personally liable for the deceased's debts unless they choose to manage the estate freely.