Inheritance in Brazil (Probate): Legal Support for Foreign Heirs
If you’ve inherited assets in Brazil as a foreign citizen, you may be surprised by how different Brazilian inheritance law is from what you're used to. The process — known as inventário — requires legal procedures that must be carried out in Brazil, regardless of where the heirs live. We assist individuals from around the world in navigating Brazilian inheritance law, from court proceedings and tax compliance to the legal transfer of assets abroad. With fluency in English and deep experience in cross-border estate matters, we ensure your inheritance is handled efficiently and with full legal protection.
What Is Inventário in Brazil?
Inventário is the official legal procedure for transferring a deceased person’s assets to their heirs in Brazil. Even if all heirs live abroad, the process must be conducted in Brazil either through court or notary, depending on the case.
Inheritance in Brazil (Inventário): Legal Support for Foreign Heirs
If you’ve inherited assets in Brazil as a foreign citizen, you may be surprised by how different Brazilian inheritance law is from what you're used to. The process — known as inventário — requires legal procedures that must be carried out in Brazil, regardless of where the heirs live. We assist individuals from around the world in navigating Brazilian inheritance law, from court proceedings and tax compliance to the legal transfer of assets abroad. With fluency in English and deep experience in cross-border estate matters, we ensure your inheritance is handled efficiently and with full legal protection.

What Is Inventário in Brazil?

Inventário is the official legal procedure for transferring a deceased person’s assets to their heirs in Brazil. Even if all heirs live abroad, the process must be conducted in Brazil — either through court or notary, depending on the case.

Key Features of the Brazilian Inheritance Process

Mandatory Legal Procedure in Brazil

U.S., UK, EU, or other foreign court orders are not valid in Brazil without proper legal processing. If the deceased had assets in Brazil, a local inventário is required.

Deadlines and Tax Compliance

Each state sets its own deadline to open the inventário and pay the inheritance tax (ITCMD). Late filings can result in penalties and lost tax benefits.

ITCMD – Inheritance Tax in Brazil

Tax rates vary by state, generally from 4% to 8%.

Payment is typically due within 60–180 days after the date of death.

Some states offer discounts for early payment and allow installment plans.

Formal de Partilha: Asset Transfer Document

Once the process is finalized, a formal de partilha is issued to officially transfer ownership of real estate or other assets. This is mandatory for any sale, management, or registration.

International Transfers

After completion, we assist with the legal transfer of funds or assets from Brazil to your country of residence — ensuring full compliance with local and international banking and tax regulations.

Why You Shouldn’t Handle This Alone

Foreign heirs often assume that:

In reality, Brazilian law requires a licensed Brazilian lawyer to represent you in inventário. Without proper legal guidance, you risk:

Why Choose Us for Your Inheritance Case?

Our legal team offers:

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Frequently Asked Questions About Inheritance in Brazil

 No — we can represent you remotely and handle the entire process on your behalf.

 Foreign wills must be adapted and validated under Brazilian law. We manage this for you.

It’s Brazil’s inheritance tax, typically 4%–8%, calculated on the value of inherited assets.

You may face fines, interest, or lose discounts. Acting quickly avoids these issues.

 Yes, most Brazilian states allow it — we’ll confirm and set it up for your case.

 Absolutely. We ensure full legal and financial compliance when transferring assets abroad.

Secure Your Inheritance in Brazil — Without the Stress

Cross-border inheritance doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Let us guide you through every step of the Brazilian inventário process with confidence and clarity.

Schedule your free consultation today.

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