New Greek Inheritance Law 2026: what changes from 16 September

When the new framework applies

Law 5303/2026 comprehensively reformed the Fifth Book of the Greek Civil Code. The main parts of the reform apply to succession relationships where the deceased dies on or after 16 September 2026.

This date is decisive. Earlier deaths may remain subject to the previous law, while specific transitional rules address estate distribution, inheritance certificates, holographic wills and other pending procedures. A succession matter therefore cannot be assessed by referring to the new law without first checking its relevant dates and procedural history.

Estate debts and personal asset protection

One of the most important changes concerns liability for estate obligations. The new framework separates the estate from the heir's personal assets, so inherited debts are satisfied from the estate and do not automatically burden the heir's individual property.

This reduces the risk created by unknown liabilities, but it does not make every inheritance matter simple. The estate's assets and debts, any management acts and the appropriate procedure still need review, particularly where there are several heirs or creditors.

Forced heirship, modern families and agreements

The forced share is reformed and becomes a monetary claim. The aim is to protect the entitled person without necessarily fragmenting real estate, businesses or other productive assets.

The new law also introduces inheritance agreements upon death and agreements renouncing future inheritance rights. It includes rules for the succession rights of a permanent partner in an unregistered relationship, subject to the statutory requirements and court certification where required.

• Reform of intestate succession
• Forced share as a monetary claim
• Inheritance agreements upon death
• Agreements renouncing future inheritance rights
• Rules concerning a permanent unmarried partner

What should be checked in practice

Each matter requires confirmation of the date of death, the existence and date of any will, family or other personal relationships, the estate's assets, its liabilities and any earlier acts by interested persons. A will made or revoked before the new law takes effect may remain governed by the previous law in relation to form and testamentary capacity.

Anyone planning the succession of assets in Greece, or already called as an heir, needs individual assessment. The available options are broader, but the transitional provisions and the coexistence of two legal regimes make early legal review especially important.