I am a citizen of Russia and I'm participating in inheritance proceedings opened in Russia. After my husband’s death, there has also been left a real estate located in Latvia. There are other heirs who are involved in the division of the inheritance. Is it possible to register ownership of the real estate in Latvia exclusively in my name on the basis of an inheritance division agreement concluded between all heirs?

Yes, it is possible. First, inheritance proceedings are opened with a notary in Latvia. Within the time period set by the notary, other heirs may also come forward.

Once the inheritance proceedings in Latvia are completed and a certificate of inheritance has been obtained, the heirs conclude a real division agreement among themselves. The agreement may be concluded privately or in the form of a notarized deed.

In your case, it is very important to conclude the real division of inheritance agreement before the heirs’ ownership rights are registered in the Land Register, as this is almost the only opportunity for Russian citizens to be registered as owners of real estate in Latvia.

If a representative acts on your behalf in Latvia under a power of attorney, do not forget to include in the scope of authority the right to divide the inheritance by concluding the relevant agreement.