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.

Inheritance in Tenerife for Non-Residents: UK, USA and EU Citizens

Many people inherit Tenerife property while living abroad. Whether you’re based in the UK, USA or elsewhere in Europe, the process is manageable — but there are important rules to understand. This guide explains how inheritance works for non-residents and what tax you may need to pay.

Do Non-Residents Need to Pay Inheritance Tax in Tenerife?

Yes. In Spain, inheritance tax is based on where the asset is located. If you inherit a property in Tenerife, you must file the inheritance tax declaration in Spain, even if you live abroad.

The good news: most heirs pay almost nothing thanks to the Canary Islands’ 99.9% tax reduction for Groups I, II and III (close relatives).

UK Citizens: Rules After Brexit

UK heirs can still benefit from the Canary Islands’ generous tax reductions. However, some additional paperwork is often required, and the process may take slightly longer. The tax outcome for most families is still extremely favourable.

EU/EEA Citizens

EU and EEA citizens (Germany, Ireland, France, Netherlands, Sweden, etc.) automatically receive regional tax benefits, including the 99.9% reduction, with no additional requirements.

USA and Other Non-EU Citizens

Non-EU heirs can still inherit property in Tenerife with minimal tax, but extra documentation is often required. Apostilles, translations and international probate documents may be needed before Spain accepts the inheritance.

Do You Need to Travel to Tenerife?

No. Most non-resident heirs arrange the entire process remotely by giving power of attorney to a lawyer or gestor in Tenerife. The inheritance deed can be signed on your behalf in Spain.

Tax Residents: Don’t Forget Modelo 720

If you become a tax resident in Tenerife after inheriting assets abroad (such as UK or US bank accounts), you must declare them on Spain’s foreign asset report, Modelo 720. Penalties for not filing it can be high, so this is an important step.

Simplifying the Process for Non-Residents

With the right guidance, non-residents can complete the entire Tenerife inheritance process smoothly and without travel. This is especially helpful for families wishing to sell an inherited property.