CertiDocsThe practical guide
European Certificate of Succession: copy and translation
Does a foreign bank or authority require proof of your rights in an inheritance? Check the appropriate certificate, the copy’s date and the required language before translation.
Understand the processWhat does it prove and who issues it in Belgium?
Link to this sectionThe European Certificate of Succession helps an heir, among others, establish their status in another participating state. Belgian notaries are competent to issue it. Ask the notary handling the estate whether it fits the requested use; its use is optional.
Which countries participate?
Link to this sectionRegulation 650/2012 applies to estates of people who died on or after 17 August 2015. It covers EU states except Denmark and Ireland. For assets in another country, confirm which record can be used before applying the certificate’s circulation rules.
Six months: which document expires?
Link to this sectionThe authority retains the original and issues certified copies. These normally last six months, with an expiry date shown. Request an extension or a new copy from the issuing authority. Check the date against the planned appointment; translating the copy does not extend its validity.
Check apostille and translation separately
Link to this sectionArticle 74 exempts documents issued in a member state under the Regulation from legalisation and similar formalities. This does not determine the language your bank or notary must accept. Clarify the requested translation, then prepare the complete copy, attachments and recipient’s written instructions.
Prepare the copy for your appointment #
Check the certified copy’s expiry before ordering translation and confirm the required language with the recipient.
Preparation advice from CertiDocs #
Fictional example: a foreign bank schedules your appointment after the expiry shown on your copy. You ask the notary for an extension or new copy before final translation. Then send the correct version and requested attachments with the bank’s letter.
- Check the Succession Regulation’s exemption before requesting an apostille.
- Identify attachments accompanying the copy to translate.
Prepare the next step
Documents to prepare
- Countries involved and recipient’s request
- Certified copy and expiry date
- Required attachments, language and format
Steps to follow
Check the copy with the notary
Confirm the country of use, expiry date and required attachments.
Prepare the relevant quote
Send CertiDocs the required records, target language, recipient and deadline.
Good to know
Guides
On the same topic
Other steps to prepare. Succession and foreign records.
Inheritance with real estate in two countries
Organise records for property located in two countries.
Belgian inheritance after a death abroad
Prepare death and family records requested by the Belgian notary.
Belgian sworn translation for use abroad
Prepare formalities for a Belgian translation used abroad.
For your application
Related documents
Common translations
Budget
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Frequently asked questions
+−Is the certificate required for every inheritance?
+−Can I translate a copy that expires soon?
Official source
Official sources used
The references below are the public sources used to document this page. The competent authority always retains the final decision.
CertiDocs analysis: CertiDocs explains the process and helps connect users with a professional. CertiDocs is not a public service and is not affiliated with any authority.