Obtain a copy of a will in Spain (for non‑residents)
When a relative passes, you may need to obtain a copy of a will in Spain quickly to access bank accounts, transfer utilities, or sell a property. The process is formal but predictable if you follow the sequence that notaries and registries expect. This expanded guide explains the role of each document, the waiting periods that catch many families off guard, the difference between simple and authorized copies, and what to do if there is no will at all. With the right paperwork, you can obtain a copy of a will in Spain within days instead of weeks.
Jacob Salama
9/16/20252 min read
Step 1: Death certificate (why the details matter)
If the death occurred in Spain, request the Spanish death certificate. If abroad, secure the foreign certificate and add an apostille/legalization plus a sworn translation. Ensure names, surnames, and passport numbers match the will and the Last Will Certificate exactly—minor discrepancies (middle names, accents) generate notary queries and delays. Order several originals now; banks and registries often keep their own copies.
Step 2: Last Will Certificate (Certificado de Últimas Voluntades)
You cannot obtain a copy of a will in Spain without this central registry certificate. It confirms whether the deceased granted a will and identifies the notary and date. There is a statutory waiting period after death before the registry updates; applying too early yields a negative result that wastes time. File the request with the death certificate and the fee; if you are abroad, your lawyer can lodge it on your behalf.
Step 3: Request the notarial copy (simple vs authorized)
Armed with the Last Will Certificate, contact the indicated notary. A simple copy is informational for understanding the dispositions; an authorized copy is an official instrument with full probative value used for inheritance deeds and bank procedures. Provide your ID, proof of interest (heir/legatee), and any power of attorney. If multiple heirs exist, coordinate to avoid duplicate requests and ensure consistent spellings across all applications.
If there is no will (and how to proceed)
If the certificate shows no will, a notary can issue a declaration of heirs, identifying relatives entitled to inherit under intestacy rules. Gather civil status records (marriage, birth certificates) and witnesses if required. This instrument replaces the will for the purposes of accepting the inheritance and dealing with banks and registries.
Timing, translations, and parallel steps
Turnaround ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on notary workload and whether translations or legalizations are needed. To save time, order multiple certified copies and begin collecting property, bank, and insurance documentation in parallel so that, once you obtain a copy of a will in Spain, you can immediately draft the inheritance deed.
Practical checklist
Death certificate (multiple originals) • Last Will Certificate • Passport/NIE • Proof of interest (kinship documents) • Power of attorney if represented • Sworn translations and apostilles where applicable • Request for simple and authorized copies • Parallel gathering of asset certificates.
We can obtain a copy of a will in Spain for you and coordinate all notarial steps. Start now: our contact page • Email: taxlegalspain@gmail.com • Tel: +34 644121802 . Use the form at our contact page for a priority callback.