Every inheritance in Tenerife must follow the same legal stages. Some cases are quick, others take months — especially when heirs live abroad. This guide explains the typical timeline so you know what to expect.
Week 1–4: Collecting Documents
This includes:
- Death certificate
- Certificate of Last Wills
- Locating the will
- Passports and NIE numbers
- Property deeds and Nota Simple
Foreign deaths require apostilles and translations, which can add time.
Month 1–3: Preparing the Inheritance Deed
The Spanish notary reviews all documents and confirms the heirs. Property values are checked, and any debts or mortgages are verified.
Month 3–4: Signing the Inheritance Deed
Heirs sign in front of a notary or give power of attorney to sign on their behalf. This is the key step where ownership is legally transferred.
Month 4–5: Filing Taxes
Even though tax is usually minimal, filing is mandatory. Plusvalía Municipal is also paid at this stage.
Month 5–6: Updating the Land Registry
The property is officially registered in the heirs’ names. Banks can release inherited funds once tax filings are complete.
Total Time: 2–6 Months
Most Tenerife inheritance cases finish within this range. Delays usually occur if documents are missing or heirs live abroad.
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