Request the Last Will certificate (Certificado de Últimas Voluntades)

Why it matters

This central registry tells you IF the person made a will and, if so, before which notary — so you can obtain it. You cannot settle the estate without knowing this.

How to do it

1. Wait 15 working days after the date of death (counted from the day after).
2. Apply with Modelo 790, attaching a literal death certificate. Available online, by post, or in person.
3. Request the life-insurance registry certificate (Seguros con cobertura de fallecimiento) at the same time — same form.

Do this first

• Register the death at the Civil Registry (Registro Civil) — within 24h

This unlocks

• Obtain the authorised copy of the will from the notary
• Declaration of heirs (declaración de herederos) — only if there is no will
• Claim any life insurance (using the seguros registry certificate)