The certificate is the official proof of heirship with which you show banks, the land registry and the deceased debtors your right. But before paying the fee, check whether it is needed at all: a notarial will often replaces it. The probate court is the local court at the deceased last residence.
Inheritance: Certificate and Probate Court
The certificate of inheritance is the official proof of the right to inherit from the probate court. It is not always needed: with a notarial will banks and the land registry often accept it without one.
✓ Verified: 18/07/2026
WHAT TO DO
AUTHORITY
Nachlassgericht (Amtsgericht)
Federal agencyCertificate of inheritance, opening of the will and disclaiming an inheritance all go through the Nachlassgericht (a division of the Amtsgericht) at the deceased's last place of residence.
Where to go in your city → DOCUMENTS 4
› Details and tips
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Max recommends:
Before applying I asked the bank what they need — with the notarial will they managed without the certificate, saving a noticeable fee. Do not pay for a document that is not always required.
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Lea recommends:
Foreign certificates (birth, marriage) need an apostille and sworn translation for the probate court — as in our apostille route. Prepare them early, it is the slowest item.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does everyone need the certificate? ▾
No. With a notarial will many banks and the land registry accept it with the opening record instead. For statutory inheritance (no will) or to transfer property it is usually necessary.
What does it cost? ▾
The fee is based on the estate value (GNotKG) — from tens to hundreds or thousands on large estates. Plus the sworn declaration. The court/notary states the exact amount from your figures.
Several heirs — one certificate each? ▾
Usually a joint certificate is issued for all heirs with shares. A partial certificate is possible, but the joint one often suffices — coordinate with the others.