Welcome

Renouncement of succession

Article

Declaration of Renouncement of Succession

According to German law the heirs can declare the renouncement of succession to the German probate court within six weeks after being informed about the case of succession. This period is extended to 6 months, if the deceased had his last residence abroad or if the heir is staying outside of Germany.

The signatures on the declaration will, as a minimum requirement of form, have to be certified (signature certification). Both parents (one if it is a case of sole custody) of minor children, have to declare the renouncement of succession on the children’s behalf. The declaration of renouncement may be executed before the consular officer at the competent German Mission or a honorary consul.


If you wish to declare the renouncement of succession at the German Consulate in Toronto or Vancouver, we kindly ask you to book an appointment through our online appointment booking system. For the renouncement of succession with one of our Honorary Consuls, please contact them directly for an appointment.

Please note: When a parent wishes to also renounce the inheritance for their minor child, the birth certificate of the child needs to be presented as well to proove the parentage.


Your signature may also be certified by a Canadian Notary Public/ Notary. In this case, the document has to be legalized for use in Germany. You can find detailed information on the legalization process on the our website:


If you want to have your signature certified by a Canadian Notary Public/Notary, please confirm with the competent German probate court that the certification by a Canadian Notary Public/Notary will be acceptable.

Form: Renouncement of succession

Related content

Top of page