Do I Have Any Legal Rights to My German Boyfriend’s Property as a Thai Girlfriend?

1. Introduction
For a Thai girlfriend in a relationship with a German boyfriend, questions about inheritance rights and property ownership can become urgent after his passing. In Germany, unmarried partners—including Thai girlfriends—are not automatically entitled to inheritance or property rights. However, there are ways to secure a claim depending on your specific situation. Thai-German Heritage Assistance specializes in supporting Thai girlfriends in understanding and asserting their rights under German law.

 
2. German Inheritance Laws for Unmarried Partners
2.1 Under German inheritance law, governed by the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), statutory inheritance is reserved for spouses, children, and close family members.

2.2 As a Thai girlfriend, you are not automatically considered an heir, even if you were in a long-term relationship or lived together.

2.3 Thai-German Heritage Assistance helps evaluate your legal position and explores potential ways to claim property or financial compensation.

 
3. Securing Property Rights Through a Will
3.1 If your German boyfriend named you in his will, this provides a legal basis for inheriting property or assets.

3.2 A valid will ensures that your rights are recognized, even if statutory heirs (such as family members) exist.

3.3 If the will was created in Thailand, it must be translated and legalized to be valid in Germany. Thai-German Heritage Assistance handles the verification and execution of wills to secure your rights.

 
4. Joint Ownership of Property
4.1 If you co-owned property with your German boyfriend, your share of the property is not subject to inheritance laws and remains yours.

4.2 Proving joint ownership requires documentation, such as deeds or contracts, showing both names.

4.3 Thai-German Heritage Assistance helps confirm your joint ownership and ensures smooth access or transfer of rights to the property.

 
5. Proving Contributions to the Property
5.1 If you financially contributed to your German boyfriend’s property, such as helping with mortgage payments or renovations, you might have grounds to claim compensation.

5.2 Evidence like bank statements, receipts, or contracts can support your claim.

5.3 Thai-German Heritage Assistance assists in gathering and presenting this evidence to German legal authorities to protect your financial interests.

 
6. Contesting Property Distribution
6.1 If your German boyfriend’s statutory heirs (such as family members) claim the entire property, you may contest the distribution if you can demonstrate significant contributions or dependency.

6.2 Contesting inheritance is a complex process that requires a strong legal basis and supporting evidence.

6.3 Thai-German Heritage Assistance works with legal experts to guide you through disputes, ensuring your voice is heard and your interests are protected.

 
7. Property Management for Thai Girlfriends Living Abroad
7.1 If the property is located in Germany but you reside in Thailand, managing or selling it remotely can be difficult.

7.2 Thai-German Heritage Assistance offers property management services, helping you with rentals, maintenance, or sales while ensuring compliance with German and Thai laws.

7.3 Our bilingual team bridges the gap between countries, ensuring you retain control of your inherited assets.

 
8. Tax Implications for Property Claims
8.1 Inheritance tax for unmarried partners is significantly higher in Germany, with a low tax-free allowance of €20,000 and tax rates up to 30%.

8.2 Thai-German Heritage Assistance helps calculate potential tax liabilities and advises on strategies to minimize the financial impact.

8.3 We also provide guidance on cross-border tax considerations for transferring funds or assets to Thailand.

 
9. Selling or Renting the Property
9.1 If you inherit or retain property rights, you may choose to sell or rent the property for financial stability.

9.2 Thai-German Heritage Assistance supports you in navigating the German property market, handling legal requirements, and ensuring secure transactions.

9.3 Whether you wish to sell or generate rental income, we ensure the process is efficient and tailored to your goals.

 
10. Conclusion
As a Thai girlfriend, your legal rights to your German boyfriend’s property are not automatically recognized under German law. However, through wills, joint ownership, or proving contributions, you may secure a claim. Thai-German Heritage Assistance provides comprehensive support to Thai girlfriends, ensuring they navigate the legal complexities with confidence and achieve a fair outcome. With our expertise, you can protect your rights and secure your future.