# Inheritance in Germany | What Should a Polish Heir Know?

> A practical guide for Polish heirs: documents, succession, deadlines and key issues in inheritance matters connected with Germany.

- Canonical URL: https://kancelaria-mkk.pl/en/inheritance-in-germany/
- Languages: Polish, German, English
- Published: 2026-07-28
- Updated: 2026-07-28

## Short answer

A practical guide for Polish heirs dealing with inheritance in Germany: documents, deadlines, jurisdiction and first steps.

## Short answer

An inheritance case in Germany usually starts with identifying the deceased person’s last habitual residence, estate assets and documents proving the heirs.

Document
Purpose

Erbschein
German certificate of inheritance

European Certificate of Succession
Cross-border proof of inheritance rights in the EU

## Frequently asked questions

### What should a Polish heir check first?

The heir should check the deceased person’s last residence, documents, assets, debts and the deadlines for accepting or rejecting the inheritance.

### Can German inheritance documents be used in Poland?

Often they require verification, translation or explanation of their legal effect before they are used in a Polish context.

### Is legal advice useful before signing documents?

Yes. Early review helps avoid accepting obligations or missing procedural deadlines.