How much is the inheritance tax in Greece for foreigners?

Inheritance taxes in Greece range from 0% to 40%.

Close relatives, such as children and spouses, benefit from tax-free thresholds of up to €150,000 per parent, with rates applied based on the heir’s relationship to the deceased and the value of the estate.

Non-residents are only taxed on assets located in Greece.

This article covers:

• How does inheritance tax work in Greece?
• How much is the inheritance tax in Greece?
• How much can you inherit from your parents without paying inheritance tax?
• Is there a way to reduce inheritance taxes?

Key Takeaways:

• Direct heirs pay 0%–10% above the tax-free threshold; others pay 20%-40%.
• Children can inherit up to €150,000 per parent tax-free; spouses have similar exemptions.
• Non-residents are only taxed on Greek assets.
• Lifelong gifts, joint ownership and life insurance can legally reduce taxes.

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The information in this article is intended as general guidance only. It does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice, and is not a recommendation or invitation to invest. Some facts may have changed since the time of writing.

What is the new inheritance law in Greece?

Greece is new inheritance law determines the shares of heirs, introduces inheritance agreements, grants rights to unmarried partners and limits liability for estate debts.

The reforms modernize legislation that has remained unchanged since 1946 and aim to simplify inheritance for all heirs, including foreigners.

Important points relevant to inheritance tax:

• Inheritance agreements: Allow binding agreements on asset distribution and selection of applicable foreign law.
• Marital shares: Surviving spouses now receive up to one-third of the estate if they inherit with one child.
• Unmarried partners: Long-term partners only inherit if no closer relatives survive.
• Liability of the heir: Heirs are only liable for estate debts up to the value of the estate, not their personal assets.
• Mandatory portions and wills: Excluded heirs receive monetary compensation in lieu of ownership; Safeguards exist for handwritten wills.

These changes mainly affect the way estates are distributed and reported, which in turn determines estate taxes for heirs.

What is the inheritance tax in Greece?

The Greek inheritance tax is one progressive tax this varies from 0% to 40%, depending on your relationship with the deceased and the value of the assets you inherit.

The closer your relationship is with the deceased (such as children, spouse, parents), the lower the tax rate and the higher your tax-free threshold.

For 2025, Greek inheritance tax is divided into three categories:

• Category A (spouse, children, grandchildren, parents):
  • First €150,000 tax-free per heir
  • 1% on the next €150,001 – €300,000
  • 5% on €300,001 – €600,000
  • 10% on amounts above €600,000
• Category B (siblings, nieces/nephews, grandparents, other extended family):
  • First €30,000 tax-free
  • 5% on €30,001 – €100,000
  • 10% on €100,001 – €300,000
  • 20% above €300,000
• Category C (other family members and non-family members):
  • First €6,000 tax-free
  • 20% on €6,001 – €72,000
  • 30% on €72,001 – €267,000
  • 40% on amounts above € 267,000

These rates are applied after deduction of the applicable tax-free threshold per category.

For non-residents who inherit Greek real estate, the same rates apply, but only for assets located in Greece.

How much can you inherit from your parents without paying taxes?

In Greece, children can inherit up to 150,000 euros per parent tax-free. Spouses also have similar thresholds.

Above these amounts, inheritance tax applies at the progressive rates described above.

Example: If a child inherits €200,000 from one parent, the first €150,000 is tax-free and the remaining €50,000 is taxed at the applicable rate (usually starting at 1%).

Foreigners who inherit Greek real estate are subject to the same thresholds, but reporting and payment obligations remain strict.

Who is responsible for paying inheritance tax in Greece?

In Greece, the beneficiary (heir) is responsible for paying the inheritance tax. This applies regardless of whether the heir is a resident or non-resident, although non-residents are only taxed on assets located in Greece.

• Direct heirs (children and spouses) are responsible for declaring the inheritance and paying any tax due after applicable exemptions.
• Distant relatives or non-family beneficiaries are also responsible, but they face higher progressive tax rates.
• Joint heirs must agree on how to pay the tax if multiple beneficiaries inherit the same property; otherwise the tax authorities can hold them jointly liable.

Inheritance taxes must be declared and settled within a certain period after death. Failure to pay may give rise to interest charges or penalties.

Often legal representatives or notaries assist heirs in correctly filing and paying taxes.

How to avoid inheritance taxes in Greece

Conclusion

Inheritance taxes in Greece can be significant, but understanding the rules, thresholds and legal strategies makes planning much more manageable for residents and foreigners alike.

Close heirs benefit from generous exemptions, while good estate planning, through gifts, joint ownership or life insurance, can help protect assets and ensure a smooth transfer.

Staying informed and working with local advisors is the best way to minimize tax liability while complying with Greek law.

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