Greek Inheritance Law 2026: What Changes Under Law 5303/2026
Greek inheritance law is undergoing a significant reform.
Law 5303/2026 introduces a new legal framework affecting intestate succession, forced heirship, inheritance debts and estate planning. The key provisions apply to inheritance relationships where the deceased passes away on or after 16 September 2026.
For individuals who own property in Greece, families with substantial assets, Greek citizens living abroad and foreign nationals with assets or inheritance rights in Greece, these changes make it particularly important to review existing estate and succession planning.
- What Changes Under Greek Inheritance Law in 2026?
One of the most important changes concerns forced heirship rights.
Under the new framework, descendants, parents and the surviving spouse who would otherwise inherit under intestate succession continue to have protected inheritance rights. However, the forced heirship entitlement is restructured as a monetary claim equal to half the value of the share they would have received under intestate succession.
The rules governing intestate succession are also being reformed, with the position of the surviving spouse strengthened in certain circumstances.
The new framework also introduces inheritance rights, subject to specific legal conditions, for a person who was living with the deceased in a non-marital partnership.
- What Happens to Inheritance Debts?
Another significant reform concerns liability for debts of the estate.
Under the new system, heirs will generally not be personally liable with their own assets for the deceased’s outstanding obligations, subject to the conditions and exceptions provided by law.
This represents an important change in the way heirs should assess whether and how to accept an inheritance in Greece.
For beneficiaries living abroad in particular, understanding both the assets and liabilities of an estate before taking any formal action can be essential.
- New Estate Planning Options in Greece
Law 5303/2026 also introduces important new estate planning tools, including inheritance agreements taking effect upon death and agreements allowing a person to waive certain future inheritance rights in advance.
These agreements may be concluded from 16 September 2026, creating new possibilities for family wealth planning, succession planning and the transfer of significant assets.
They may be particularly relevant where an estate includes:
- real estate in Greece;
- family businesses;
- investment assets;
- substantial family wealth;
- or assets located in more than one country.
For international families, the interaction between Greek inheritance law and assets or family members located abroad should be reviewed carefully before any succession plan is finalised.
- Do You Own Property or Have Inheritance Rights in Greece?
The new Greek inheritance law does not concern only those who are currently dealing with an inheritance.
It is equally relevant to individuals who wish to determine how their assets will pass to the next generation.
At Prili & Partners Law Firm, we approach inheritance matters as part of a broader strategy for the protection, management and succession of family wealth.
We advise clients on the legal structure of their estate, inheritance rights, Greek property, succession planning and, where an international element exists, the relationship between Greek assets and foreign jurisdictions.
If you own property or other assets in Greece, expect to inherit an estate in Greece or wish to review how your wealth will be transferred in the future, the 2026 reform provides a valuable opportunity to reassess your position with specialised legal guidance.
Contact Prili & Partners Law Firm to discuss how the new Greek inheritance law may affect your estate, your family or your inheritance rights in Greece.
Prili & Partners Law Firm — Protecting assets. Planning succession. Securing the next generation.
