⚠️ This guide was researched and updated in May 2026. Laws and regulations change frequently. For specific legal advice regarding your jurisdiction, please consult with local legal counsel.

Belgium Will & Estate Planning Guide

Read about will creation and estate planning in Belgium. This guide covers witness rules, probate processes and jurisdiction-specific considerations that may apply. Rules vary, so consult a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

Estate Planning in Belgium at a Glance

Belgium has strict forced heirship rules protecting children and spouses. The reserve légale guarantees minimum inheritance shares that cannot be overridden by will. Each of Belgium's three regions (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels) has different inheritance tax rates. Notarial wills provide most security while holographic wills offer privacy.

Forced heirship (reserve légale) for children and spouse
Children get 50-75% as protected share
Three regions with different tax rates
Inheritance tax 3-80% based on relationship and region
Holographic wills must be entirely handwritten
Notarial wills registered in Central Registry
Surviving spouse has usufruct rights

Will Requirements in Belgium

Creating a will in Belgium typically involves national rules and any local variations. Witness requirements, signing procedures and other formalities can vary by jurisdiction, so consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

Witness Requirements: Notarial will: notary + 2 witnesses or 2 notaries. Holographic: none required

Holographic Wills:Handwritten wills may be recognised

Inheritance Tax in Belgium

Tax Rate: 3-80%

Tax Threshold: 17,000 USD

Rates vary significantly by region (Brussels, Flanders, Wallonia)

Family Shares and Estate Administration in Belgium

Protected family shares: Children's reserve: 1 child = 50%, 2 children = 66.67%, 3+ children = 75%. Surviving spouse gets usufruct of entire estate or minimum 50% of matrimonial home.

Related Resources

What Happens Without a Will?

Read about intestacy rules and how an estate may be distributed if you die without a will.

Global Inheritance Tax Guide

Compare inheritance tax rates, thresholds and exemptions across countries.

Digital & Physical Will Signatures

How signing rules differ across jurisdictions and where digital signatures may be accepted.

Estate Planning Information for Belgium

This guide is for information only. We don’t yet have coverage for Belgium. Register your interest below and we’ll let you know when coverage becomes available, or find a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

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