Do I have to pay inheritance tax in Tenerife?

Most close relatives receive a 99.9% inheritance tax reduction in Tenerife. This means spouses, children, parents, siblings and grandchildren usually pay almost no tax.

Do I need to travel to Tenerife to complete an inheritance?

No. Most heirs sign a Power of Attorney and the entire process can be completed without travelling to Tenerife.

How long does Tenerife inheritance take?

Most Tenerife inheritance cases take between 1 and 3 months if the death occurred in Spain, or 3 to 6 months if it occurred abroad.

Can I sell an inherited property in Tenerife?

Yes, but only after the inheritance deed has been signed and the property is registered in the heirs' names. All heirs must agree to the sale.

What documents do I need for a Tenerife inheritance?

You need a death certificate, Certificate of Last Wills, the will (if any), passports, NIE numbers, property deeds, and bank information where applicable.

Step-by-Step: How to Claim an Inheritance in Tenerife

Inheriting a property or assets in Tenerife involves several legal steps. The process can be managed from abroad, but it must be handled correctly to avoid delays. This clear step-by-step guide explains exactly what you need to do.

Step 1: Get the Death Certificate

If the death occurred outside Spain, the certificate must be apostilled and translated into Spanish. This is the first document the notary will ask for.

Step 2: Request the Certificate of Last Wills

This Spanish certificate confirms whether the deceased had a Spanish will. Even if they lived abroad, it must be checked.

Step 3: Locate the Will

If there is a Spanish will, the process is simpler. If only a foreign will exists, it must be legalised, apostilled and translated before Spain accepts it.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Passports of heirs
NIE numbers (mandatory)
Property deeds
Bank account details (if applicable)
Utility bills
Debts or mortgage information

Step 5: Sign the Inheritance Deed

A Spanish notary prepares the “Escritura de Herencia,” which officially lists the assets and assigns them to the heirs. Heirs can sign in person or through a power of attorney.

Step 6: File Inheritance Tax (Modelo 650)

This must be submitted within six months of the date of death. Even if no tax is due, the form is still mandatory.

Step 7: Pay Local Taxes

The main local tax is Plusvalía Municipal, charged by the town hall based on how long the property has been owned.

Step 8: Register the Property in Your Name

The final step is updating the Land Registry so the property legally belongs to the heirs. Once complete, the property can be kept, rented or sold.

Simplifying the Process

Most heirs choose to give a lawyer or gestor power of attorney so the entire process can be handled remotely. This avoids travel and speeds things up considerably.