For many heirs abroad, the practical answer is yes. In many cases, travelling to Greece is not necessary, provided the inheritance file is properly prepared and a valid power of attorney is put in place. Greek consular guidance states that a power of attorney may authorize real estate sales, tax representation and other lawful acts, but it must be signed in person before the competent Consular Authority, with proof of identity and proof of address.
Before the property can be sold, the inheritance usually has to be regularized. AADE states that inheritance tax returns can be submitted digitally, and where a notarial deed of acceptance of inheritance is drawn up, the return is completed by the notary and accepted by the heirs. AADE also lists the death certificate, copy of the will, certificate of next of kin or inheritance certificate, and will-related certificates among the documents normally required for an inheritance tax return.
If the estate includes real estate, the tax and property records must also be brought into order. AADE states that heirs must submit E9 for inherited property, with a special deadline linked to the expiry of the renunciation period. AADE also notes that, to draw up a notarial deed of acceptance of inheritance, the heir must present the ENFIA certificate for the last five years for the inherited properties.
For the actual transfer, AADE states that a taxpayer or foreign resident who wishes to transfer property must present an ENFIA certificate to the notary. AADE also states that when the real estate transfer tax return is submitted digitally through myPROPERTY, the E9 statement can be created automatically and the buyer and seller are informed by email.
If you live in the United States or another country, foreign documents may also need to be prepared for use in Greece. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that Greek authorities need proof that U.S. documents, or the signatures of U.S. officials on them, are genuine before they will accept them.
So, can you sell inherited property in Greece without travelling? Often yes, but not immediately. In practice, the inheritance documents, tax filings and sale authority usually need to be put in order first, and many heirs abroad handle this through a properly drafted power of attorney rather than a trip to Greece.
Need help selling inherited property in Greece from abroad? Contact our office for guidance on the next legal steps.
