Being named as the executor of a loved one's estate is challenging enough. It can feel even more daunting when you live outside the UK but need to deal with assets located in England or Wales.

The good news is that, in many cases, you do not need to travel to the UK to obtain probate. Most of the process can be completed from overseas with the correct paperwork and guidance.

We can help you with this promptly and cost effectively for you.

Yes.

An executor who lives outside the UK can usually apply for a Grant of Probate in England and Wales if they have been appointed in a valid Will.

If there is no Will, the person entitled to administer the estate may be able to apply for Letters of Administration instead.

Whether you live in India, Australia, Canada, the USA, Singapore, the UAE or elsewhere, the application process is broadly the same, although additional identification or document certification may be required.

A UK Grant of Probate is often required where the deceased owned assets in England or Wales, such as:

• Bank or building society accounts
• Shares and investments
• Property
• Premium Bonds
• Business interests
• UK music or royalty income
• PRS or other ongoing royalty payments

Even if the deceased lived overseas, probate may still be required to release these UK assets.

In most cases, no.

Many overseas executors complete the entire process from their home country. Documents can usually be signed abroad and returned to the UK, although some may need to be witnessed or certified depending on your circumstances.

Although every estate is different, you will normally need:

• The original death certificate
• The original Will (if one exists)
• Details of all UK assets and liabilities
• Identification for the executor(s)
• Valuations of UK assets
• Information about any inheritance tax that may be payable

Gathering accurate information at the start helps avoid delays later in the application. 

If you are not sure of what you need or have any questions, feel free to give us to call to discuss or clarify: +44 330 229 0319.

Unfortunately, it is not always that simple.

Whether inheritance tax is payable depends on several factors, including the type of UK assets owned, the deceased's circumstances and the value of the estate.

Even where no tax is due, inheritance tax forms may still need to be completed before probate can be granted.

Timescales vary depending on:

• Whether inheritance tax forms are required
• The complexity of the estate
• The accuracy of the information provided
• Processing times at HM Courts & Tribunals Service

Providing complete and accurate information from the outset can help reduce unnecessary delays.

Are you looking for help with probate and/or UK Inheritance Tax, feel fee to give the Let's Do Probate team a call on +44 330 229 0319 , and we’ll be happy to help.

You can schedule a free timed call to suit you, using our online booking system here. We can handle calls outside UK times, if you send us a booking request.