Enforcing a Foreign Will in Israel

When someone has a will made outside of Israel, handling that will after they pass takes more steps than families often expect. A will that seems standard in another country might not match what is needed under Israeli law. That can result in holdups or confusion during what is already a tough time. Whether the will is from the U.S. or somewhere else, Israeli courts require local checks before accepting it. Working with an Israeli law firm helps guide families through these steps, but learning about the process ahead of time makes everything easier. With a clear understanding, families can avoid mistakes that slow things down. This article explains how foreign wills are viewed in Israel, the issues that might crop up, and the value a local professional brings when inheritances cross borders.

What Makes a Will “Foreign” Under Israeli Law

A foreign will, as defined in Israel, is any will that was created and signed outside the country. Even if someone lived part-time in Israel or held property there, their will is treated as foreign if made elsewhere. Where and how the document was created matters a lot to a local court.

Different countries have different styles and standards for wills. Some allow handwritten documents, others use unique legal language, and not everyone uses the same rules about witnesses. These differences can lead to delays when trying to use a will in Israel. Accurate translation into Hebrew is key, and small problems like missing pages or dates can cause more questions.

Nothing in a foreign will can happen in Israel until the local court gives its approval. This means the Israeli court needs to rule the will is legally valid. Without this approval, property or accounts listed in the will cannot be transferred to anyone in Israel. That is why having all papers fully complete and matching Israeli standards is so important.

The Recognition Process for a Foreign Will in Israel

To use a foreign will in Israel, a formal request must be made to the court. Usually, this is handled by applying for a probate order or sometimes an execution order, depending on what the will covers. The process starts with the Registrar of Inheritance. If the situation is complicated or there are any objections, it may go to Family Court.

The request usually needs these items:

– The original will or an officially certified copy

– The death certificate, ideally translated into Hebrew

– Evidence that the will was validly created based on the original country’s law

– A full Hebrew translation of the will, checked and often notarized

Getting these papers can be tough, especially across borders. Different countries set up their own rules about what documents are available and how to certify them. Delays often happen during the winter holidays, since both mail services and courts move slower in December. That is something families should plan around when possible.

Common Challenges When Enforcing a Foreign Will

The most common issues with foreign wills come from legal differences between countries. What works in one place might not pass in another. Disagreements about the form or meaning of the will can slow things down or trigger extra legal checks.

Sometimes, family members in Israel might challenge the will. They might claim Israeli law gives them rights that the foreign will does not respect, or allege the document is unfair. These conflicts bring more paperwork and might mean hearings or extra reviews.

The time of year adds to the complications, too. Courts receive many cases but often work slowly during late December and other holiday periods. Submissions made at these times can get delayed longer than families might expect. Not knowing about these delays ahead of time can be frustrating.

How an Israeli Law Firm Can Help Across Borders

An Israeli law firm’s help is crucial for families working across two or more legal systems. Local attorneys know how to translate not just the language, but the legal meaning behind terms and documents. They also check details, arrange for notarization, and track the court’s requirements so nothing falls through the cracks.

Many heirs or executors do not live in Israel or speak Hebrew. An Israeli law firm can act for them, bringing cases to court, handling paperwork, and even representing their wishes in hearings. This support helps people settle matters without having to travel themselves.

Other times, the will includes property or bank accounts in Israel, or ownership is split between relatives who live abroad and those who live locally. These international arrangements make cases more complicated. With a knowledgeable legal partner, small errors and unnecessary delays are far less likely. Eli Shimony Law Office regularly handles multi-country estates and submits probate requests when foreign wills name Israeli property.

A Smoother Path in a Complex Time

Handling a loved one’s will is difficult enough. When two or more countries’ laws apply, the process may feel overwhelming. Learning how Israeli law treats foreign wills makes the next steps seem much more manageable.

Most families want to honor the wishes in the will and close the estate with as little friction as possible. While extra paperwork often comes with international inheritances, the steps do not have to add stress. With preparation, up-to-date documents, and support from a skilled Israeli law firm, the process will move forward—even during busy holiday seasons or international mail delays. Whether the will is signed nearby or from overseas, there is a clear way to move ahead.

Sorting through a will made outside of Israel can raise questions, especially when timing, translations, and cross-border paperwork are involved. If property or heirs are connected to Israel, working with an Israeli law firm can help move things forward while meeting local court expectations. At Eli Shimony Law Office, we’re familiar with both international and local procedures and can guide you at your pace. Reach out when you’re ready to take the next step.

Eli Shimony – Israeli law firm represents clients on all legal matters in Israel. For any questions, please contact us, and we will be happy to assist.
By email: [email protected], By phone: +972-52-2769773, +972-3-5507155.
The above is only general information and does not replace legal advice, which is usually necessary before taking legal proceedings.