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Estate Administration in Cyprus Without a Will | Legal Guide

Estate administration in Cyprus refers to the legal process through which a deceased person’s assets and liabilities are collected, managed, and distributed to the lawful heirs. When a person passes away without leaving a valid will, the estate is administered under the rules of intestate succession, as provided by Cyprus law.

This guide outlines how probate in Cyprus works in the absence of a will, the role of the Administrator, and the key procedural steps involved.

What is included in an estate under Cyprus law

For the purposes of estate administration in Cyprus, the estate includes:

• immovable property in Cyprus or abroad
• bank accounts and deposits
• investments, shares, and securities
• personal belongings and valuables
• outstanding debts, loans, and liabilities
• tax obligations of the deceased

All liabilities must be settled before any distribution to heirs takes place.

Probate and estate administration procedure in Cyprus

Initial documentation and identification of heirs.
Following the death of an individual, the legal heirs must obtain:

• a Death Certificate
• a Certificate of Heirs identifying the lawful heirs under intestate succession

These documents form the basis of the probate process in Cyprus when there is no will.

Appointment of the Administrator

The legal heirs must nominate an Administrator of the estate. This is done by:

• signing a written consent confirming the appointment
• confirming the Administrator’s acceptance of the role

The Administrator is personally responsible for the proper and lawful administration of the estate and is accountable to the Court.

Application for Letters of Administration

The appointed Administrator must apply to the competent District Court for the issuance of Letters of Administration. The application typically includes:

• full details and addresses of all legal heirs
• an estimate of the total value of the estate
• a sworn affidavit by the Administrator
• a guarantee provided by a third party to secure the administration

Once issued, the Letters of Administration grant the Administrator the legal authority to act on behalf of the deceased.

Tax clearance and approval

Before issuing the Letters of Administration, the Court requires confirmation from the Cyprus Tax Department. For this purpose, the Administrator must:

• submit the prescribed form (Τ.Φ. 701)
• obtain tax clearance confirming no outstanding tax issues

This step is mandatory before the estate administration can proceed.

Powers and duties of the Administrator

Upon issuance of the Letters of Administration, the Administrator is authorised to:

• act in the place of the deceased
• communicate with banks and financial institutions
• collect and safeguard estate assets
• manage or dispose of property where necessary
• settle debts and liabilities
• prepare the estate for distribution to heirs

The Administrator must also conduct thorough searches to identify all assets and liabilities of the deceased.

Inventory of assets

As part of the probate process in Cyprus, the Administrator must:

• prepare a full Inventory of Assets
• file the inventory with the Court
• swear an affidavit confirming full disclosure of all known assets

Failure to disclose assets may expose the Administrator to personal liability.

Final accounts and completion of administration

Upon completion of the administration, the Administrator must submit Final Accounts to the Court, including:

• a detailed record of all actions taken
• payments made and liabilities settled
• distribution of the estate to the lawful heirs
• signed declarations from beneficiaries confirming receipt of their inheritance

Once the Court approves the Final Accounts:

• the estate administration is formally concluded
• the Administrator is discharged from all duties and responsibilities

Legal support for estate administration in Cyprus

Estate administration without a will can be complex and time-consuming, particularly during an emotionally difficult period. Court procedures, tax requirements, and strict fiduciary duties make professional legal assistance highly advisable.

Our Cyprus-based law firm has extensive experience in:

• estate administration in Cyprus
• probate proceedings
• intestate succession matters

We provide comprehensive legal support at every stage of the process, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and clarity for all parties involved.

Legal support for estate administration in Cyprus

Estate administration without a will can be legally complex, time-consuming, and emotionally challenging. Court procedures, tax clearance requirements, and strict duties imposed on Administrators make professional legal guidance highly advisable.

Our Cyprus-based law firm has extensive experience in probate in Cyprus, intestate succession matters, and estate administration. We provide comprehensive legal support throughout the entire process, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and the efficient resolution of estate matters.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your specific circumstances, you are encouraged to contact our office by telephone at +357 25 101080 or by email at info@mylonas.law to consult with one of our specialist lawyers.