Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions heirs and advisers ask us most often.
Do I need to travel to Argentina?
In most cases, no. Heirs abroad usually take part through a power of attorney signed at an Argentine consulate or before a local notary with an apostille. Some cases may still require your presence for a specific step; we tell you early if yours does.
Can a foreigner inherit property in Argentina?
Yes. Foreign nationality or residence does not limit inheritance rights in Argentina. A foreign heir inherits on the same terms as an Argentine heir, although some later steps, such as selling or receiving funds, may require an Argentine tax identification number.
Which law applies if the deceased lived outside Argentina?
As a general rule, the law of the deceased's last domicile governs the succession. Real estate located in Argentina, however, is governed by Argentine law, including forced heirship.
How long does Argentine probate take?
It depends on the court, the documents and whether the heirs agree. An uncontested succession with complete documents usually reaches the declaration of heirs within several months; registration or sale adds time. Foreign documents, missing heirs or disputes extend it.
Which documents will I need from abroad?
Usually the death certificate (if the death occurred abroad), birth and marriage certificates proving each heir's relationship, identity documents and any foreign will. Foreign public documents need an apostille and, if not in Spanish, a translation by an Argentine certified translator.
Is a will made abroad valid in Argentina?
Generally yes, if its form complies with the law of the place where it was signed or one of the other laws Argentine law accepts. Over Argentine real estate it must respect the reserved shares of forced heirs.
Can I sell the property before the succession ends?
An heir can assign their inheritance rights before the end of the succession. Once the court declares the heirs, the property can often be sold directly to a buyer without first registering it in the heirs' names.
What if another heir will not cooperate?
The succession can move forward without them. If heirs cannot agree on dividing or selling the assets, the court can order a partition and, where assets cannot be divided, their sale.
Does Argentina have an inheritance tax?
There is no national inheritance tax. The Province of Buenos Aires taxes free transfers of property, including inheritances, above certain thresholds. The sale of inherited property and your own country's taxes need separate analysis.
Do you work with my lawyer or executor in my country?
Yes. Many of our matters come through foreign law firms, executors and trustees. We handle the Argentine side and report to them in English.
Inherited assets in Argentina?
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