Our wills and probate lawyers in Cyprus assist with drafting legally valid wills, estate planning and the administration of estates through the probate procedure. Based in Polis Chrysochous, Paphos, we act for Cypriot and international clients across all districts, making sure that assets are distributed correctly and that avoidable family disputes never take root.
How We Help With Wills and Estates in Cyprus
A clear, legally valid will is the simplest way to make sure your wishes are followed. We take the time to understand what you own, in Cyprus and elsewhere, and who you wish to provide for, and we then draft a will that satisfies the formal requirements and deals with your estate completely. For international clients with property in Cyprus, we advise on how a Cyprus will works alongside wills made in other countries, and on the forced heirship rules that can affect how freely an estate may be disposed of.
Estate planning goes beyond the will itself. We advise on how assets are held, what will happen to them on death and what can sensibly be put in order in advance — so that your intentions are clear, the paperwork is complete and your family is not left to untangle matters at a difficult time.
When someone dies, we guide executors and families through the probate procedure step by step: applying to the court for the grant, gathering in the assets, settling debts and liabilities and distributing the estate to those entitled. We handle estates both with and without a will, including cases where the deceased lived abroad but left property in Cyprus, and we advise executors and administrators on their duties throughout so that the administration is carried out properly and without unnecessary delay. Where a dispute arises — over the validity of a will, the conduct of an administration or a claim against the estate — we assess the merits realistically and represent clients in inheritance proceedings where necessary.
Our Services Include
- Drafting legally valid wills
- Estate planning advice
- Probate applications
- Administration of estates
- Executor guidance
- Inheritance disputes
Clarity and Certainty for Your Estate
Our approach focuses on clarity, legal certainty and efficient estate administration, so that your affairs are in order and your family is spared unnecessary complication. Estate matters often connect with other areas of our practice — see Property Law if the estate includes immovable property in Cyprus, and Family & Matrimonial Law if divorce or separation means your will and estate planning need to be reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a foreign will valid in Cyprus?
A will made abroad may be recognised in Cyprus, but this depends on how it was executed and what it covers. Relying on a foreign will alone can complicate the administration of Cyprus assets, so many international clients make a separate Cyprus will. We review your situation and advise on the safest arrangement.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Cyprus?
The estate is distributed according to the statutory rules of intestacy, which divide it among the closest relatives in fixed shares. The result may be very different from what the deceased would have wanted, and the administration often takes longer. Making a valid will avoids this uncertainty.
What is probate and when is it needed in Cyprus?
Probate is the court procedure that authorises a person, usually the executor named in the will, to collect the deceased's assets, settle debts and distribute the estate. It is generally required before banks and the Land Registry will release or transfer assets held in the deceased's name.
Can I leave my estate to anyone I choose in Cyprus?
Not always. Cyprus law includes forced heirship rules that can reserve a portion of the estate for a spouse and children, limiting how much can be left freely by will. The position depends on your circumstances, including domicile, so estate planning advice is important before a will is drafted.