Inheriting property in Spain from the UK: what happens next?

Why a Spanish property needs a Spanish process

A property located in Spain must ultimately be dealt with through the Spanish authorities and Land Registry, even when the deceased and the heirs lived in the United Kingdom. The UK probate documents can be relevant, but the Spanish file normally needs its own supporting documentation and formalities.

Documents commonly needed for the Spanish inheritance

The exact file depends on the estate, but documents can include the death certificate, the will and probate or heirship documentation, evidence relating to the Spanish property, identification of the heirs and tax information. Foreign documents may need legalisation or apostille and a sworn translation before they can be used in Spain.

NIE numbers for the heirs

British heirs will commonly need a Spanish NIE when they have to appear in Spanish tax, notarial or property-registration procedures. It is sensible to check this early rather than waiting until the inheritance deed is ready to sign. DOMUS can coordinate this through our NIE assistance.

Spanish inheritance tax and Modelo 650

The Spanish Tax Agency identifies Modelo 650 as the return for acquisitions by inheritance. For non-resident cases within the State Tax Agency's competence, its current guidance states a general filing period of six months from the date of death. Which administration is competent and which regional rules may apply must be checked for the individual estate.

Notary and Land Registry

Where Spanish real estate is inherited, the succession normally needs to be formalised in a way that allows the new ownership to be registered. Once the documentary and tax position is ready, the relevant inheritance instrument can be completed and the resulting ownership registered at the Land Registry.

Can the process be managed while you remain in the UK?

Many preparatory steps can be coordinated remotely. Depending on the case, representation under a suitable power of attorney may also be possible for certain formalities. The wording and form of any power should be checked before it is signed so that it is actually usable in Spain.

What if the heirs want to sell the property?

Sale planning should normally come after the inheritance and registration position has been clarified. If the inherited property is to be sold, DOMUS can also coordinate the related non-resident and property-sale administration through our selling property in Spain service.

Need help with a Spanish inheritance?

If you are in the UK and have inherited property or other assets in Spain, we can review the Spanish side of the file and explain the next practical steps.