⚠️ 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.

Mexico Will & Estate Planning Guide

Read about will creation and estate planning in Mexico. 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 Mexico at a Glance

Mexico follows civil law with forced heirship (legitima) varying by state. Generally, spouse and descendants are protected heirs. Most states reserve 50% for forced heirs. Public notarial wills are most common and secure. No federal inheritance tax since 2014, but some states impose local taxes. Foreign residents should consider international estate planning.

Forced heirship varies by state (usually 50%)
No federal inheritance tax since 2014
Some states have local taxes 0-6%
Public notarial will most secure
Holographic will must be deposited
Can make will from age 16
Foreign property not covered by Mexican will

Will Requirements in Mexico

Creating a will in Mexico 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: Public: notary + 2 witnesses. Open: 3 witnesses. Holographic: none but requires deposit

Holographic Wills:Handwritten wills may be recognised

Inheritance Tax in Mexico

Mexico does not currently impose an inheritance tax

Family Shares and Estate Administration in Mexico

Protected family shares: Legitima varies by state. Federal Civil Code: spouse and children are forced heirs. Most states reserve 50% for protected heirs. Surviving spouse gets portion plus usufruct rights. Cannot fully disinherit except for legal causes.

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 Mexico

This guide is for information only. We don’t yet have coverage for Mexico. 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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