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When a Turkish citizen passes away in a foreign country—such as Canada—managing inheritance procedures in Turkey becomes a cross-border legal issue. From obtaining inheritance certificates to handling property transfers and bank accounts, heirs must follow a formal legal process to claim their rights.
The process begins with acquiring a 'veraset ilamı' (Certificate of Inheritance) from the Turkish courts. If the death occurred abroad, the foreign death certificate must be translated and officially recognized by Turkish authorities. Once verified, the rightful heirs can be identified and their shares legally determined.
Heirs often face delays due to missing documents, unrecognized foreign certificates, or improperly translated paperwork. It’s crucial to work with lawyers familiar with both Canadian and Turkish legal systems to ensure smooth communication and documentation between authorities in both countries.
After obtaining the inheritance certificate, the next step is distributing the estate. This can include transferring ownership of real estate in Turkey, closing or redistributing bank accounts, and paying any inheritance-related taxes. If the deceased had assets in both countries, coordination is essential to avoid legal complications or double taxation.
If heirs reside outside Turkey, they can grant power of attorney to a legal representative who can handle all inheritance procedures on their behalf. This avoids the need to travel and ensures that the legal steps are taken properly in accordance with Turkish inheritance law.
Our firm provides full support to families dealing with cross-border inheritance. We handle all procedural requirements—from document verification and court applications to property transfers and tax filings—ensuring that your loved one's legacy is managed with care, dignity, and legal precision.