What if I Own Foreign Property?

When creating a will, one important consideration that should be made should be in relation to assets held abroad, in particular foreign property. The general rule in relation to property is that assets such as property are subject to the law of the country in which the asset resides.

While Irish Wills can deal effectively with Irish property, it would be prudent to have a will in each jurisdiction where you hold property. For example, if you own property both in Ireland and France, you should consider creating two wills, one in Ireland and a second one in France.

It is important that you do some research into the succession law of that country as the laws may differ considerably from the laws of Ireland. The laws could differ in terms of automatic inheritance and of course disinheritance.

Without various wills in place, the issue of succession can be quiet complex when dealing with foreign property. You should consider making a Will in those countries where you hold overseas property.

A word of warning, if making a will in a foreign jurisdiction, it is important to ensure that you do not unintentionally revoke your Irish will. Similarly, you must ensure that your Irish will does not revoke your foreign will.