Introduction: Why NRIs Need a Succession Certificate in India
When an NRI or OCI’s family member passes away in India without leaving behind a registered will, the legal heirs often face hurdles in claiming bank accounts, shares, fixed deposits, insurance policies, or movable assets.
Under Indian law, a Succession Certificate issued by a civil court is mandatory for heirs to access such assets. For NRIs, managing this process remotely is a challenge due to documentation, court procedures, and representation.
At NRIHelpLine, we provide end-to-end assistance to NRIs and OCIs in obtaining a Succession Certificate in India—ensuring rightful claims are secured without repeated travel.
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When Do NRIs Need a Succession Certificate?
Claiming bank deposits, fixed deposits, or bonds in deceased’s name.
Transferring shares, debentures, or mutual funds.
Settling insurance claims or provident fund balances.
Claiming pension, gratuity, or salary dues of deceased.
Accessing movable property or financial assets without a will.
👉 A Succession Certificate does not apply to immovable property (land/house). For that, heirs need partition or inheritance documentation.
Challenges Faced by NRIs in Obtaining a Succession Certificate
Jurisdiction Issues: Must be filed in the court where the deceased last resided.
Multiple Heirs: Disputes among siblings/family over rightful shares.
Documentary Proof: Missing death certificates, family tree records, or financial proofs.
Court Procedures: Lengthy filings, publication in newspapers, objections by third parties.
Distance & Absence: NRIs cannot attend court hearings regularly.
How NRIHelpLine Assists NRIs in Succession Certificate Cases
Initial Consultation – Understand deceased’s asset details and heirs.
Document Collection – Help obtain certified death certificate, identity proofs, bank records.
Drafting & Filing Petition – File application in Indian civil court on your behalf.
Publication & Objection Handling – Respond to public notices and third-party claims.
Court Hearings – Advocate representation without requiring your presence.
Issuance & Execution – Obtain and deliver certified succession certificate for asset claims.
Documents Required from NRI Clients
Passport & OCI/PIO Card copy
Power of Attorney (POA) authorizing legal team
Death Certificate of deceased (mandatory)
Identity & address proof of heirs
Family tree / legal heirship document (if available)
Asset proofs (bank passbooks, share certificates, insurance policies, etc.)
Our Process: Obtaining Succession Certificate in 5 Steps
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Heirship Verification – Confirm rightful heirs under applicable succession laws.
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Court Petition Filing – File petition in District Court where deceased last lived.
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Public Notice – Court issues notice in newspapers inviting objections.
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Hearing & Judgment – Court verifies documents, hears objections if any.
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Certificate Issuance – Succession Certificate issued for financial claims.
Why Choose NRIHelpLine for Succession Matters?
Specialized in NRI inheritance cases – Familiar with cross-border heirship laws.
End-to-end service – From document collection to final certificate.
Court representation without travel – Appear via POA on your behalf.
Integrated legal + tax guidance – For smooth transfer of assets.
Nationwide reach – Handle cases across all Indian states.
Case Example
An NRI from Toronto struggled to access her late father’s fixed deposits in Delhi. With missing family tree records and objections from distant relatives, the case was stuck for 2 years. NRIHelpLine filed a succession petition, cleared objections, and secured the certificate—allowing her to claim over ₹75 lakhs in assets.
FAQs – Succession Certificate for NRIs
Can NRIs apply for a succession certificate without visiting India?
Yes. With Power of Attorney, our advocates handle filing, hearings, and issuance entirely.
How long does it take to get a succession certificate in India?
Usually 3–6 months, but may take longer if disputes or objections arise.
What is the difference between a legal heir certificate and a succession certificate?
Can multiple heirs apply jointly for a succession certificate?
Yes. Courts allow joint applications by all legal heirs.
Is a succession certificate valid for immovable property (land/house)?
No. For immovable property, heirs must rely on partition or inheritance documentation.
Have a question?
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