In order to accept an inheritance, a foreign or Russian citizen must file an application of acceptance of inheritance with the notary in charge of the distribution of the assets. The notary is usually the one who prepared the will, or the one who acknowledged the death of the testator.
Does Russia have inheritance tax?
Russian inheritance tax There has been no inheritance tax in Russia since 2006; therefore, you won’t have to file anything if you inherit part of a Russian estate. Note that gifts from family members or close relatives are not subject to personal income tax.
What kind of inheritance law does Russia have?
If Russian nationals own immovable property abroad, then as a general rule the Russian authorities apply the foreign inheritance law, following the principle of lex rei sitae. If a Russian national owns movables abroad, then Russian authorities apply the inheritance law of his/her last place of living.
When does Russian law apply to your property?
Russian law prescribes that the law of the country where the partners have their current or latest place of residence together is applicable to their property, and to their personal matrimonial rights. If they never lived together, the law of the Russian Federation is applicable only in Russian territory.
Where does succession have to be opened in Russia?
In such cases the succession must be opened in the place where the immovable property (or its most valuable part) is situated, but if there is no immovable property, in the place where the most valuable movables are situated. Russian courts are competent to resolve disputes regarding foreigners’ property rights.
Who is allowed to make a testamentary will in Russia?
Testamentary provisions can be made in favor of Russian or foreign living persons and legal entities. Russian law allows the testator to appoint an executor who helps the heirs to implement a will. The executor may protect the property, receive any property which is owed to the deceased person, and include it in the inheritance.
