If you're a British expat with assets in Spain, the EU Succession Regulation (EU 650/2012) — also known as Brussels IV — can have a major impact on your estate planning.
This regulation allows you to choose which country’s law will govern your estate. By including a simple clause in your Spanish will, you can elect for English law to apply instead of Spanish law.
Why it matters:
Spanish inheritance law follows forced heirship, meaning a set portion of your estate must go to specific heirs (usually children), regardless of your wishes. UK law, by contrast, lets you choose how to distribute your estate freely.
Tip: Ask your legal adviser to include an EU 650/2012 clause in your Spanish will to ensure your estate is handled according to UK law and your personal wishes.
