Find a Spanish will: last wills certificate
Spain’s last wills certificate helps identify registered wills and where they were made. It does not contain the complete wording of the will.
Check death details first
Use names and date from official evidence. Resolve inconsistent spelling before applying. Keep any Spanish identification details available.
Understand the waiting period
The official electronic service permits applications after 15 working days from death have elapsed. This is a waiting period before applying, not a general completion guarantee. Check whether the electronic route is available for this case.
Keep application and payment records
Use the current official procedure and retain the application reference. Paying the fee does not itself produce the certificate. Assign responsibility for downloading it or receiving post.
Request the will copy afterwards
The result helps identify the relevant notarial office or successor archive holder. Entitlement must be established for an authorised copy. Possessing the certificate alone does not make someone an heir.
Review foreign connections separately
A negative Spanish result does not answer every question about wills made abroad. Collect foreign documents too. Applicable succession law, heir status and tax duties need subsequent coordinated review.
Official sources and next steps
Related assistance: Inheritance and succession in Spain.
Related next steps: European Certificate of Succession for Spain · Find life insurance after a death in Spain.
Prepare your enquiry
Provide death date, last residence and a document overview. Share personal evidence only through an agreed suitable channel.
Request assistance in EnglishUpdated: 23 October 2026. General guidance. Your circumstances and the current requirements of the competent authority are decisive.
