Property Inheritance Tax in Turkey
Turkish inheritance law is governed by the lex rei sitae principle, which means the law of the country where the property is located applies. While immovable property (real estate) in Turkey is subject to Turkish law, movable property is governed by the law of the deceased's country.
Who Will Inherit My Property in Turkey?
If there is no notarized will, the order of succession is as follows:
- Spouse and children are the primary heirs and receive a set share.
- Parents inherit if there are no children.
- Siblings inherit if the parents are no longer alive.
- Grandparents and their children inherit if there are no closer kin.
- If there are no next of kin, the estate becomes the property of the Republic of Turkey.
Making a Will in Turkey
To safeguard assets, it’s essential to make a will in compliance with Turkish law. Only individuals over 15 with full mental capacity can make a will. A will can be handwritten, oral, or official, and must include handwriting, full dates, and signatures. It must be submitted to the court or the clerk of justices and signed before two witnesses.
Preventing Someone from Receiving an Inheritance
It’s possible to exclude someone from inheritance, but only in extreme cases with court approval. Once approved, the excluded heir cannot contest the decision.
Inheritance Tax in Turkey
How Much Inheritance Tax Will I Pay?
Turkey’s inheritance tax rates are relatively low compared to other European countries. Rates vary depending on the value of the estate:
- Up to $58,000: 1%
- $58,000 - $186,000: 3%
- $186,000 - $466,830: 5%
- $466,830 - $1,013,000: 7%
- Above $1,013,000: 10%
When Do I Pay Inheritance Tax?
Inheritance tax can be paid over three years, with payments due in May and November each year.
Documents Required for Inheriting Property in Turkey
Heirs will need the following documents:
- An inheritance inventory (in Turkish or with a certified translation).
- Turkish tax registration details, including a Turkish tax number.
- Valid passport.
- Passport photos.
Do Foreigners Pay Inheritance Tax in Turkey?
Yes, Turkey’s tax system treats citizens and foreigners alike. All individuals are subject to the same inheritance tax laws.
