Inheritance in Torrevieja

Torrevieja (Torrevella) has many retired owners from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Scandinavia, Belgium and other countries, often a couple who bought a bungalow or apartment on an urbanisation. When one of them dies, the surviving partner and the children face the Spanish procedure, usually from abroad. The procedure is that of inheritance in Spain; the tax is Valencian and the local taxes are paid in Alicante province. This is an outline of common practice, not advice on a specific estate.

How it usually works in Torrevieja

The first step is to check the national register of wills. Many owners in the town made a Spanish will when they bought, which makes the procedure simpler; others left only a will from their own country, or none. The heirs obtain NIE numbers, and the deed accepting the inheritance is signed before a notary, often in Torrevieja itself or under a power of attorney. Next comes the inheritance tax return to the Valencian tax agency; then the municipal taxes are settled and the heirs are registered as owners.

What to watch for in Torrevieja

• Half of a home. Most homes here belong to a couple. On a first death only half passes; the survivor keeps the other half and may have further rights under the law that governs the estate.
• Valencian tax. The Valencian Community grants a large relief to spouses and children, and heirs abroad can usually use it too. Other heirs are taxed more.
• Local debts. Unpaid IBI, community fees and utilities often build up after a death when nobody is on site. In much of the province the local taxes are collected by SUMA, which can say what is owed.
• Selling afterwards. Heirs who sell the home first complete the inheritance deed. A buyer withholds part of the price from a non-resident seller, which can later be claimed back.

How an English-speaking lawyer helps

The lawyer explains the Spanish steps in English, deals with the notary, the tax agency and the community, and can do it all under a power of attorney. Heirs who sell can look at reclaiming the withholding on a property sale; owners who want to spare their family the trouble can make a will in Spain. Lawyers who handle estates in the town appear on the Torrevieja page.

Questions and answers

My parent had a UK will. Is it enough for a flat in Torrevieja?

It can be used once legalised and translated, but it often adds steps. A separate Spanish will for Spanish property is the common choice here.

Can I sell an inherited bungalow in Torrevieja straight away?

Not before the inheritance deed is signed and the tax filed. Then the heirs can sell like any owner.

Does the surviving spouse in Torrevieja have to pay inheritance tax?

Tax is due on the half that passes, but the Valencian relief for a spouse usually reduces it a great deal.