Inheritance Law
Inheritance in Turkey: A Step-by-Step Guide by Power of Attorney from Germany
After losing a relative with assets in Turkey, dealing with the estate can feel daunting from abroad. In reality, with the right power of attorney the entire process can be handled without ever travelling to Turkey. This guide summarises the steps, the required documents and the deadlines you must not miss.
Why is a power of attorney enough?
A special power of attorney issued at the Turkish consulate or before a German notary (with an apostille) authorises your lawyer to take every step on your behalf — including obtaining the Turkish certificate of inheritance (veraset ilamı), the registration of inheritance at the land registry, and dealings with the tax office and banks. You do not need to attend court hearings.
Key deadline: The disclaimer of inheritance is only possible within 3 months of learning of your heirship; this is a strict forfeiture period. If the deceased's debts exceed the assets, this deadline is crucial.
Step by step
- Obtaining the certificate of inheritance: issued by the Civil Court of Peace (Sulh Hukuk Mahkemesi) or a notary; the German death certificate must be submitted with an apostille and a certified translation.
- Inheritance and transfer tax return: filed at the tax office, with the clearance certificate obtained.
- Registration at the land registry: with the certificate of inheritance and the tax clearance, the property is registered in the heirs' names.
- Bank accounts and other assets: accounts and other assets are settled by power of attorney.
Required documents
- German death certificate (with apostille and certified translation)
- Civil registry / identity details of the heirs
- A will or German certificate of inheritance (Erbschein), if any
- A power of attorney tailored to the matter
Is a German Erbschein valid in Turkey?
A certificate of inheritance issued by a German court is not directly valid in Turkey. It can be submitted as evidence with an apostille and certified translation; however, for real estate in Turkey a separate Turkish certificate of inheritance (veraset ilamı) from a Turkish court is required.
For your cross-border inheritance matter, see our Inheritance & Succession page or contact us for a free initial consultation.
Cross-border inheritance, real estate and compensation law between Germany and Turkey. Representation by power of attorney, without travelling.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can I complete inheritance matters without travelling to Turkey?
Yes. With a special power of attorney issued at the consulate or a German notary, your lawyer carries out the entire process — including the certificate of inheritance, land-registry registration and tax matters.
What is the deadline to disclaim the inheritance?
It is 3 months from learning of your heirship and is a strict forfeiture period; if missed, the inheritance, together with its debts, is deemed accepted.
Is a German Erbschein sufficient in Turkey?
No, it is not directly valid. For real estate in Turkey, a separate Turkish certificate of inheritance (veraset ilamı) is required.