How Long Does Probate Really Take in Portugal?

When someone dies owning assets in Portugal, one legal step is often unavoidable: the habilitação de herdeiros. In this episode, we explain what this procedure is, why it matters, and when families must complete it to move forward with estate administration.

Understanding this process early can save time, reduce friction among heirs, and prevent costly delays.

🔎 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

1️⃣ What the Habilitação de Herdeiros Is

It is the formal declaration of heirs under Portuguese law, identifying:

• All legal heirs

• Their respective inheritance shares

This declaration creates legal certainty and allows third parties—banks, registries, and authorities—to act.

2️⃣ When the Procedure Is Required

The habilitação de herdeiros is necessary to:

• Transfer or register immovable property

• Release bank accounts and financial assets

• Administer or transfer titled assets

Without it, estates cannot be properly settled.

3️⃣ Extrajudicial vs. Judicial Routes

• Extrajudicial (Balcão Heranças):

Available when all heirs are in agreement. This route is faster, simpler, and more cost-effective.

• Judicial inventory:

Required when heirs disagree on shares, asset allocation, or administration. This process involves the courts and can be significantly more complex.

4️⃣ Why It Matters for Cross-Border Families

For international families, this step often intersects with foreign wills, multiple jurisdictions, and property registrations—making early legal guidance essential.

This episode offers a practical overview of one of the most important steps in Portuguese succession law, helping families and advisors understand what is required—and why.