English Will-Making Services in Estepona and the Western Costa del Sol
2025-12-03 09:00
English Will-Making Services in Estepona and the Western Costa del Sol
With its traditional Andalusian charm, modern marina, and stunning sea views, Estepona has become one of the most desirable places to live on the Costa del Sol. For many British and European expats, this part of Spain, from San Pedro de Alcántara to Manilva and Casares offers the perfect balance of sunshine, community, and quality of life.
But while life in southern Spain feels idyllic, there’s one practical matter every expat should take care of: making a valid will that covers your assets in Spain.
At Callaghan Financial Services, we personally help English-speaking residents in Estepona, San Pedro, Manilva, Casares, Sabinillas, and surrounding areas prepare and organise their wills simply, clearly, and affordably. We guide you through every stage from understanding your options to signing your will before a Spanish notary all in straightforward English.
While we are not solicitors or notaries, we have years of experience supporting expats with cross-border estate organisation and work directly with registered Spanish notaries to ensure your will is properly executed and legally recognised.
Why Expats in Estepona Need a Will in Spain Many foreign residents assume their UK will automatically applies to their Spanish property, but this can lead to confusion later. Spain has its own inheritance rules (“forced heirship”), which can determine who inherits your assets, regardless of your wishes.
Having a Spanish-compliant will gives you control and peace of mind. It ensures:
Your property and savings go to the people you choose.
Your family avoids unnecessary legal complications.
The inheritance process is faster and smoother.
Your estate follows the law of your nationality, if you choose to elect English law.
For most expats, it’s a simple step that makes a world of difference.
Making an English Will in Estepona and Surrounding Areas
At Callaghan Financial Services, we make the will-making process easy to understand and quick to complete. Whether you live full-time in Spain or own a holiday home, we’ll help you prepare a clear, legally valid will that reflects your wishes.
Our will-making assistance includes:
A personal consultation (in person or online) to discuss your wishes and assets.
Drafting your will in English, with a Spanish version if needed for notary purposes.
Coordination of your signing appointment with a local notary.
Secure registration of your will with the Spanish Central Wills Registry in Madrid.
Everything is explained in English, and we’re there with you through each step, no confusion, no translation worries.
How Much Does It Cost? Our English will-making services in Estepona start from €100 for a straightforward individual will.
This includes:
Guidance and preparation support.
English documentation ready for review.
Coordination of your signing and registration.
If your circumstances are more complex, for example, owning several properties or assets in multiple countries we’ll provide a transparent quote before proceeding. There are never any hidden fees.
Understanding Spanish Inheritance Law Spanish inheritance law operates differently from UK law. Under Spanish forced heirship, certain family members automatically inherit fixed shares of your estate.
However, thanks to the EU Succession Regulation (EU 650/2012), you can choose English law to govern your will if you’re a British national living in Spain. This gives you freedom to decide who inherits your estate, as you would under UK law.
We’ll ensure this declaration is clearly stated in your will so your wishes are fully respected.
Our Step-by-Step Process
1. Initial Discussion - We begin with a friendly chat to learn about your wishes, assets, and family circumstances.
2. Draft Preparation - We prepare a clear, easy-to-understand English draft of your will, along with a Spanish version if required.
3. Review and Adjustments - You review the document, and we go through it together so you know exactly what it means.
4. Signing Before a Notary - We arrange your notary appointment and assist with the signing process.
5. Registration and Safe Storage - Your will is registered with the official Spanish Wills Registry and stored securely for future reference.
Everything is handled professionally and personally with ongoing support whenever you need it.
Areas We Cover
We assist clients across the western Costa del Sol, including:
Estepona
San Pedro de Alcántara
Casares
Manilva
Sabinillas
Benahavís
Duquesa
Cancelada
El Paraíso
Whether you’ve retired to Estepona or own a second home nearby, having a properly written and registered will in Spain is essential to protect your assets and your loved ones’ peace of mind.
Why Choose Callaghan Financial Services
Personal attention: You’ll work directly with us, we don’t pass clients on.
Everything in English: No legal jargon or translation confusion.
Transparent pricing: Wills from €100, with clear explanations of any extra costs.
Experience with expats: We understand both UK and Spanish requirements.
Trusted local relationships: We coordinate with reputable notaries in Estepona and nearby towns.
Our goal is to make the entire process simple, clear, and reassuring giving you confidence that everything has been done correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a Spanish will if I already have one in the UK? A: Yes, a UK will may not automatically apply to assets in Spain. Having a Spanish will simplifies the inheritance process for your family.
Q: Is my UK will still valid? A: Yes, but it’s best to have separate wills for each country to avoid potential delays or legal conflicts.
Q: Can I choose English law to apply? A: Yes. Under EU rules, you can elect for the law of your nationality to govern your estate.
Q: Do both spouses need separate wills? A: Yes. In Spain, each person must sign an individual will, though they can be written to reflect each other’s wishes.
Important Legal Notice Callaghan Financial Services is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. We assist clients in preparing and organising their wills and coordinate with qualified Spanish notaries for signing and registration. All legal formalities are completed under the authority of registered notaries in Spain.
Get Started Today Preparing your will is one of the most meaningful ways to protect your loved ones and your legacy. If you live in or near Estepona, we’re here to help you complete the process with confidence and care.