Wills & Probate Services for British Expats
Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and your estate. Having a professionally drafted Will ensures that your assets are distributed exactly according to your wishes and that your family is supported at a difficult time. For expatriates, these decisions become more complex due to international laws, cross-border assets, and varying jurisdictional requirements.
At Credible Life, we connect British expats with qualified, regulated Will writers and estate-planning specialists who understand both UK legislation and international probate systems. Whether you reside in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, or beyond, our professionals can help you create a Will that is valid, recognised, and enforceable in the country where you live and in the UK.
Why Every Expat Needs a Will
A recent study found that 63% of British expats do not have a Will in place, leaving their families vulnerable to:
Delays in probate
Unexpected tax liabilities
Distribution of assets according to local intestacy rules rather than personal wishes
Legal disputes between potential heirs
Challenges when dealing with overseas property or bank accounts
Having a legally compliant Will—especially one tailored for expatriates—is essential to preventing unnecessary complications.
How We Help
Our advisers and partner specialists provide expert guidance on every aspect of Will creation, probate processes, and international estate planning, including:
✔ Costs & Planning
Transparent breakdown of Will-writing fees
Guidance on single vs. mirror Wills for couples
Optional trusts and estate-protection strategies
✔ Validity & International Recognition
Ensuring your Will is valid in the UK
Preparing Wills recognised in your country of residence
Assistance with registering Wills with local solicitors or authorities
Advice on creating separate Wills for different jurisdictions (where appropriate)
✔ Executors, Trustees & Guardians
Choosing the right executors and trustees
Appointing guardians for children (essential for expat families)
Understanding executor responsibilities and legal powers
✔ What Happens After Death
The probate process explained
Timeline of steps taken by executors
What happens to overseas assets
How international probate differs from UK probate
✔ Marriage, Divorce & Relationships
Whether you need a new Will upon marriage
How divorce impacts your Will
Legal considerations for unmarried couples
Rules around disinheriting individuals or limiting their entitlement
✔ Estate Planning & Tax
Cross-border inheritance tax implications
UK IHT and domicile considerations
Use of trusts to protect assets and beneficiaries
Strategies for minimising inheritance tax for global estates
✔ Long-Term Care & Future Planning
Including provisions for long-term care needs
Planning for medical directives and living Wills
Power of Attorney guidance (UK and international options)
✔ Storing & Updating Your Will
Registered storage options in the UK and abroad
Digital storage considerations
When and how to update your Will (recommended every 3–5 years)
✔ Overseas Assets
Including international real estate, bank accounts, investments, and pensions
Coordinating with local legal experts to ensure compliance
Avoiding forced heirship rules in certain jurisdictions
Additional Services for Expats
Credible Life also helps connect you with specialists for related services:
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
Ensure trusted individuals can manage your affairs if you become unable to.
International Probate Assistance
Support for families handling estates located in multiple countries.
Trust Formation
Set up family trusts for protection, tax efficiency, and long-term wealth preservation.
Digital Legacy Planning
Secure arrangements for online accounts, digital assets, and cryptocurrencies.
Why Choose Credible Life?
✓ Specialists in Expat Family Protection
We focus exclusively on the needs of UK expats around the world.
✓ UK-Regulated & Internationally Experienced Professionals
We only refer advisers who are properly qualified and fully conversant in cross-border estate matters.
✓ Peace of Mind for You and Your Loved Ones
Your wishes are documented clearly, legally, and in a way that avoids complications for your beneficiaries.
✓ Comprehensive Global Coverage
No matter where you live—our advisers can prepare Wills recognised in both the UK and your local jurisdiction.
Start Protecting Your Family Today
Creating a Will is one of the simplest yet most important steps you can take. With expert support, the process is straightforward, fast, and tailored to your unique global circumstances.
Speak to one of our international Will-writing specialists today and secure your legacy with confidence.