How to Inherit Property in Georgia: Deadlines, Procedure and Heirs' Rights

The deadline and two ways to accept

An heir has six months to apply to a notary (Notary Chamber guidance) or to take actual possession. Possessing part of the estate counts as accepting all of it, and partial or conditional acceptance is not allowed (scholarly article).

After the deadline, actual possession may still ground acceptance, but the fact often must be confirmed in court (procedure); if you are late, consult our civil law and court representation team early.

Where and how to apply

The notary acts under the Law on Notaries. Find one in the electronic registry and book through my.gov.ge; services are listed on the Chamber's page.

A refusal by a notary can be challenged in court, and rulings can be searched in the Supreme Court database. On a low income, see the Law on Legal Aid.

First steps to take: - 1) Prepare the death certificate; - 2) Gather documents confirming family relation; and - 3) Inventory known assets. - 4) Verify whether there is a will and whether there are outstanding debts before accepting.

What to check before accepting

- Debts: heirs satisfy creditors only up to the value of what they receive; creditors generally have six months from learning of the estate (Supreme Court, No. ას-303-285-2014, as reported in the article above).

- Renunciation: per this analysis, it is irrevocable and covers the whole estate.

- Title: only a notary issues the certificate of inheritance, needed to become owner; see also real estate purchase risks.