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Do I need a Notarised Certificate of Inheritance?

Certificate of Inheritance for Overseas Assets

When a loved one passes away, proving your legal right to inherit can be complex — especially when international law or overseas authorities are involved.

A Certificate of Inheritance, notarised by a qualified Notary Public, is often required to confirm your status as an heir, executor or administrator.

I will provide a fast, professional, and fully compliant notarisation service to ensure your Certificate of Inheritance is accepted wherever it is needed.

What Is a Certificate of Inheritance?

Certificate of Inheritance is an official legal document confirming who is entitled to inherit a deceased person’s assets. It is commonly required when:

  • The deceased owned assets abroad
  • An overseas authority needs proof of your legal right
  • Banks, land registries, or government departments request verification
  • Executors need formal recognition to administer an estate internationally

Our Notary Public ensures the document is correctly authenticated and recognised by foreign jurisdictions.

Why You Need a Notary Public for a Certificate of Inheritance

A Certificate of Inheritance must be notarised to:

  • Confirm your identity
  • Verify supporting documents
  • Validate the legal basis of inheritance
  • Ensure compliance with international legal standards
  • Provide certification that is accepted overseas

If required, we also arrange Apostille certification and legalisation for countries outside the Hague Convention.

Our Process (Clear & Client-Friendly) for a Cross-Border Certificate of Inheritance

1. Initial Consultation

We review your situation, required documents, and the destination country’s rules.

2. Identification Process

We will identify you through the digital platform Infotrack so that I can satisfy my regulatory and Anti Money Laundering requirements.  This will be an additional disbursement of £15 per person and requires you to upload the relevant identification documents and then complete a verification process with the aid of your mobile phone.  In order to set this up I will need confirmation of the email address and mobile phone number (per person) that I can use for this purpose.

3. Document Verification

We check wills, probate papers, death certificates, and identification documents and if required liaise with relevant overseas lawyers.

4. Drafting or Reviewing the Certificate

We prepare or verify the Certificate of Inheritance for accuracy and legal clarity.

5. Notarisation

Our Notary Public formally authenticate the documents.

6. Apostille or Embassy Legalisation (If Needed)

We can handle the entire legalisation process on your behalf.

7. Delivery

You receive your fully notarised and internationally recognised Certificate of Inheritance or we can courier directly to the relevant overseas authority.

What You Need to Bring to Your Appointment for a Notarised Certificate of Inheritance:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Proof of address
  • Death certificate
  • Will (if applicable)
  • Grant of probate or letters of administration
  • Any supporting documents requested by the relevant foreign authority

 

Why Choose Us?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about a Notarised Certificate of Inheritance

1. What is the purpose of a notarised Certificate of Inheritance?

It provides official confirmation of who is legally entitled to inherit assets, especially when dealing with overseas authorities.

2. Is a Certificate of Inheritance required for every estate?

No. A Certificate of Inheritance is mainly needed when assets exist abroad or when foreign institutions request formal proof.

3. How long does notarisation take?

Most Certificates of Inheritance can be notarised the same day once all documents are in order.

4. Do I also need an Apostille?

If the Certificate of Inheritance document is being used abroad, especially outside the UK, an Apostille is often required. We can arrange this for you. 
Find out more about Apostille >

5. Can you work with solicitors or executors to provide a Certificate of Inheritance?

Yes. We frequently collaborate with probate solicitors, executors, and estate managers to streamline the process.

Notarised Certificate of Inheritance: Fast, Accurate & Legally Compliant

As a multilingual experienced Notary Public, I can guide you through the Certificate of Inheritance process, verify your documents, and ensure compliance for use in the UK or overseas.

Alistair Robertson-Gopffarth assists clients in the Dorset / Wiltshire and Hampshire area. Travel to clients’ locations can be made by arrangement.

Member of The Notaries Society

Cross-Border Legal Resources – Articles & Insight

We publish a series of occasional articles to shed light on when you may need to use a Notary Public’s services

Alistair Robertson, Notary Public

Alistair Robertson-Gopffarth

Alistair is a solicitor specialising in all Private Client matters. He is also a Chartered Tax Adviser and in 2020 qualified as a Notary Public.

As a Notary Public Alistair assists clients with their cross border requirements.

Need a Certificate of Inheritance notarised quickly and professionally?

Book an appointment today and ensure your documentation is accepted first time.