5 key essentials of trademarking
Being aware of the advantages of registering trademarks is crucial
International Estate Planning Lawyers
- Cross-Border Will Drafting & Coordination
- International Trust & Entity Structuring
- International Tax Planning & Optimisation
- Inheritance Planning Across Multiple Jurisdictions
Speak to a Lawyer Today
Providing Practical International Estate Planning Advice To:
High Net-Worth Individuals
Protecting your global wealth with tailored cross-border estate planning, tax optimisation, and asset protection strategies.
Multinational Families
Ensuring your legacy across borders with coordinated multi-jurisdictional estate plans, wills, and trusts.
Expats & International Professionals
Navigating complex residency, domicile, and tax issues for peace of mind and compliance.
Owners of Foreign Property & Investments
Optimising ownership structures, tax efficiency, and succession planning for your international assets.
Beneficiaries of Cross-Border Inheritances
Guiding you through the intricacies of international probate, asset transfers, and tax implications.
A Globalised World Require A Globalised Estate Planning Solution
In today’s increasingly globalised society, where families and assets span continents, the need for comprehensive international estate planning has never been more crucial. As individuals and businesses become more internationally mobile, the complexities of managing cross-border inheritances, taxation, and wealth transfer have grown exponentially.
Recognising this pressing demand, PBL Law Group has emerged as a leading authority in the field of international estate planning. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team of specialised lawyers, including Raea Khan and Mark Lea, has honed their expertise in guiding clients through the intricate web of legal, tax, and practical considerations that arise when navigating the global landscape of estate planning.
Rated 5-Star By Our Clients
Tailored International Estate Planning Solutions for Your Unique Needs
Whether you’re a high-net-worth individual with a diverse global portfolio, a multinational family with members residing in different countries, or someone with complex cross-border asset holdings, our team of experts is here to guide you through the intricate maze of international estate planning. From coordinating wills and trusts across multiple jurisdictions to leveraging tax treaties and minimising potential liabilities, we are committed to delivering personalised solutions that safeguard your wealth and legacy.
As you embark on the journey of securing your family’s future in an increasingly interconnected world, trust in the expertise and compassion of PBL Law Group. Let us be your trusted partners in navigating the complex world of international estate planning, ensuring that your wishes are honoured and your legacy is preserved for generations to come.
Speak to us Now or Request a Consultation.
We will call you within 24 hours.
Coordinated Will Drafting
Ensuring that the testator’s wishes are properly reflected in Wills that are valid and enforceable across multiple jurisdictions is a critical component of international estate planning. At PBL Law Group, our experienced attorneys work closely with clients to draft comprehensive Wills that take into account the unique legal requirements of each relevant jurisdiction.
We ensure that your Wills are legally sound and effectively communicate your wishes, providing peace of mind and reducing the risk of disputes.
Trust Structuring
The strategic use of trusts can be a powerful tool in international estate planning, as they can provide a means of asset protection, tax optimisation, and efficient wealth transfer. Our team at PBL Law Group has extensive knowledge in creating and managing various types of trusts, tailored to the specific needs of our clients.
We carefully consider the tax implications and legal requirements of each jurisdiction involved, ensuring that your trusts are structured optimally to achieve your goals.
Speak to us Now or Request a Consultation.
We will call you within 24 hours.
Dual Domicile Planning
In some cases, it may be possible for the testator to maintain dual domicile status, which can have tax and legal implications that should be carefully considered. The professionals at PBL Law Group are well-versed in the complexities of dual domicile planning and can guide you through the process of determining the most advantageous arrangement for your unique situation.
We analyse the potential benefits and drawbacks, helping you make informed decisions that align with your overall estate planning objectives.
Utilisation of Tax Treaties
Leveraging the provisions of tax treaties between countries can help to minimise the overall tax burden and ensure the efficient transfer of assets. At PBL Law Group, our tax specialists have a deep understanding of the various tax treaties in place and can identify opportunities to optimise your international estate plan.
We work diligently to ensure that you are taking full advantage of the available tax benefits while remaining compliant with all relevant regulations.
Speak to us Now or Request a Consultation.
We will call you within 24 hours.
Proactive Inheritance Planning
Engaging in proactive inheritance planning, such as the strategic gifting of assets during the testator’s lifetime, can help to mitigate potential tax liabilities and ensure a smoother transition of wealth. Our team at PBL Law Group can assist you in developing a comprehensive gifting strategy that takes into account the tax implications and legal requirements of each jurisdiction involved.
We provide guidance on the most effective ways to transfer assets to your beneficiaries, helping to minimise the tax burden and ensure a seamless inheritance process.
Ongoing Review & Adjustment
As circumstances change, it is essential to regularly review and adjust the international estate plan to ensure it remains aligned with the testator’s wishes and the evolving legal and tax landscape. At PBL Law Group, we understand the importance of keeping your estate plan up to date.
We offer ongoing support and regularly scheduled reviews to ensure that your plan adapts to any changes in your personal circumstances, family dynamics, or the legal and tax environments of the relevant jurisdictions. Our commitment to your long-term success means that we are always here to provide the necessary guidance and adjustments to keep your international estate plan effective and reflective of your wishes.
Speak to us Now or Request a Consultation.
We will call you within 24 hours.
What Makes PBL Law Group Different
-
Extensive Experience & Expertise
With over 50 years of collective experience, our team of international estate planning lawyers has navigated countless legal challenges and complex cases across multiple jurisdictions. From high-net-worth individuals to families with assets spread across the globe, we have the expertise to advise on intricate estate planning matters and provide strategic guidance to protect your wealth and legacy.
-
Transparent & Fair Pricing
We understand that international estate planning can be a significant investment. That's why we offer transparent and upfront pricing for all legal matters, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the costs and fees involved.
-
Personalised Approach
At PBL Law Group, we recognise that every individual's estate planning needs are unique, with distinct goals, privacy concerns, and legal requirements. Our international estate planning lawyers take the time to understand your personal circumstances, family dynamics, and the location of your assets, enabling us to tailor our approach and legal advice to your specific situation.
-
Responsiveness & Accessibility
We pride ourselves on our responsiveness and accessibility. Our international estate planning experts are committed to providing prompt and efficient communication, ensuring that you're kept informed every step of the way. Whether you need immediate assistance with cross-border estate administration or ongoing support in planning for the future, we're here to address your concerns and provide the guidance you need.
Expert Lawyers Sydney and NSW can Trust
Raea Khan
Partner& Director Lawyer
Iain Mark
Partner
Mark Lea
IEP Consultant
Sharon Banning
Senior Lawyer
Mark Stace
Senior Lawyer
Peggie Pantsos
Associate Lawyer
Speak to us Now or Request a Consultation.
We will call you within 24 hours.
Latest insights & Practical Guides
Foundations for Financial Estate Planning and Wealth Management: Process and Key Considerations
Introduction As wealth management begins to intersect with complex legal
How to Set Up a Family Office? A Comprehensive Guide to Starting a Family Office
Introduction In today’s world, preserving and growing wealth demands not
FAQs for International Estate Planning
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
What is international estate planning and what does it involve?
International estate planning is the process of organising and managing the estate of individuals with assets, investments, or beneficiaries located in multiple countries. It involves a comprehensive approach to ensure that the estate is distributed according to the individual’s wishes while minimising legal and tax complications.
Why is international estate planning important?
The rise of globalisation has led to a significant increase in the number of cross-border families, whether through assets, residency, or family ties. This trend has made international estate planning an essential consideration for those seeking to safeguard their wealth and ensure a seamless transition of their estate upon their passing.
Some of the key reasons why international estate planning has become increasingly vital include:
- Diverse Asset Portfolios: Many high-net-worth individuals and families have accumulated assets in multiple countries, such as real estate, investments, or businesses. Proper international estate planning is crucial to ensure the efficient and tax-efficient transfer of these assets to their intended beneficiaries.
- Multinational Families: With the growing trend of immigration and global mobility, families often have members residing in different countries. This can create complex challenges when it comes to inheritance, taxation, and the distribution of assets.
- Varying Legal and Tax Frameworks: Each country has its own set of laws, regulations, and tax systems governing estate planning, inheritance, and wealth transfer. Navigating these disparate frameworks requires specialised knowledge and expertise to ensure compliance and minimise potential tax liabilities.
- Probate and Asset Transfer: The probate process, which governs the distribution of a deceased individual’s assets, can be significantly more complex when dealing with cross-border estates. International estate planning helps streamline this process and ensure a timely and efficient transfer of assets.
- Minimising Tax Burdens: Effective international estate planning can help individuals and families mitigate the impact of various taxes, such as inheritance tax, capital gains tax, and estate tax, through the strategic use of legal structures and tax treaties.
Without proper international estate planning, your estate may be subject to unintended consequences, such as higher tax liabilities, legal disputes, and difficulties in transferring assets to your intended beneficiaries. An experienced estate planning lawyer can help you navigate these complexities and create a comprehensive plan tailored to your unique cross-border situation.
What are some key considerations in International Estate Planning?
When engaging in international estate planning, several critical factors must be taken into account to ensure a comprehensive and effective strategy. These include:
- Domicile and Residency: Determining the testator’s country of domicile and residency is crucial, as it can have significant implications for taxation and the application of inheritance laws.
- Asset Situs: Identifying the location (situs) of the testator’s assets, whether tangible or intangible, is essential to understand the applicable tax and legal frameworks.
- Tax Treaties and Double Taxation: Navigating the complex web of tax treaties between countries is crucial to avoid double taxation and ensure the efficient transfer of assets across borders.
- Inheritance and Succession Laws: Understanding the inheritance and succession laws of the countries involved, particularly in cases where forced heirship rules apply, is essential to ensure the testator’s wishes are properly reflected.
- Trust and Entity Structures: Utilising trust and other legal entities can be an effective strategy for international estate planning, but their treatment and recognition can vary significantly across jurisdictions.
- Power of Attorney and Guardianship: Ensuring the appropriate legal structures are in place for power of attorney and guardianship can be crucial in the event of incapacity or disability, especially in a cross-border context.
- Coordination with Local Professionals: Collaborating with legal, tax, and financial professionals in the relevant countries is often necessary to navigate the complexities of international estate planning effectively.
What are the legal and tax complexities involved in international estate planning?
The legal and tax landscape of international estate planning can be incredibly complex, with each country having its own unique set of laws, regulations, and tax systems. Navigating this landscape requires a deep understanding of the various frameworks and the ability to develop tailored strategies to address the specific needs of the testator and their beneficiaries.
Key aspects of the legal and tax complexities in international estate planning include:
- Domicile and Residency:
- The concept of domicile and residency is crucial in international estate planning, as it can have significant implications for taxation and the application of inheritance laws.
- Determining the testator’s country of domicile and residency is often a complex task, as it may depend on factors such as the length of time spent in a country, the nature of the individual’s ties to the country, and their stated intentions.
- Taxation and Tax Treaties:
- Taxation is a critical consideration in international estate planning, with a variety of taxes potentially applicable, including inheritance tax, capital gains tax, and estate tax.
- Understanding the tax implications in each relevant jurisdiction and the available tax treaties is essential to minimising the overall tax burden and ensuring the efficient transfer of assets.
- Tax treaties can play a crucial role in international estate planning, as they often provide mechanisms to alleviate double taxation and establish clear guidelines for the application of taxes in cross-border situations.
- Carefully navigating these treaties and understanding their provisions is a key aspect of effective international estate planning.
- Inheritance and Succession Laws:
- Inheritance and succession laws can vary significantly across different countries, and it is essential to understand the applicable frameworks in each relevant jurisdiction.
- In some civil law countries, for example, forced heirship rules may dictate the distribution of assets, which can conflict with the testator’s wishes.
- Careful coordination with local legal professionals is often necessary to ensure that the testator’s wishes are properly reflected and that the distribution of assets aligns with the applicable inheritance and succession laws.
- Trust and Entity Structures:
- The use of trust and other legal entities can be an effective strategy in international estate planning, as they can provide a means of transferring assets while maintaining a degree of control and protecting the interests of beneficiaries.
- However, the treatment and recognition of these structures can vary significantly across jurisdictions, and careful structuring is required to ensure their effectiveness in the relevant countries.
- Power of Attorney and Guardianship:
- In the event of incapacity or disability, the appropriate legal structures for power of attorney and guardianship become crucial in an international estate planning context.
- Ensuring that these structures are in place and properly recognised across jurisdictions can help to protect the testator’s interests and ensure the smooth administration of their estate.
What cross-border issues are relevant?
Different countries have varying inheritance tax laws, forced heirship rules, wills formalities, and more. A lawyer can identify issues like these and advise on structuring assets using international wills and trusts.
Some of the key cross-border issues that need to be considered in international estate planning include:
- Conflicting tax laws and regulations that may lead to double taxation or unexpected tax liabilities.
- Differences in inheritance laws across jurisdictions, such as forced heirship rules that may override the terms of a will.
- Validity and enforceability of wills in different countries, as well as the formalities required for executing a will in each jurisdiction.
- Ownership structures and asset protection strategies that can help minimise legal and financial risks across borders.
- Probate and administration processes that may vary significantly from one country to another, affecting the distribution of assets to beneficiaries.
The experienced international estate planning lawyers including Raea Khan and Mark Lea at PBL Law Group can help identify and address these cross-border issues, providing guidance on the most effective strategies for structuring and protecting assets through the use of international wills, trusts, and other legal instruments. By taking a proactive approach and seeking professional advice, individuals can ensure that their international estate is properly managed and that their wishes are carried out in accordance with the laws and regulations of the relevant jurisdictions.
How can estate taxes be optimised?
What are some key cross-border estate planning challenges?
Variances in legal systems between common law and civil law countries add complexity. Domicile and tax residency rules must also be navigated carefully. A lawyer can assist with anticipating and addressing cross-border challenges.
Some of the key cross-border estate planning challenges include:
- Conflicting inheritance laws: Differences in inheritance laws between countries, such as forced heirship rules in civil law jurisdictions, can create challenges in distributing assets according to the testator’s wishes.
- Varied tax treatments: Estate and inheritance taxes can differ significantly across jurisdictions, creating potential tax liabilities and complexities in the transfer of assets.
- Probate and administration issues: The process of probating a will and administering an estate can be complicated by cross-border factors, such as the need to navigate multiple legal systems and comply with different procedural requirements.
- Asset ownership structures: The way assets are owned and structured across different countries can have significant implications for estate planning, including the ability to transfer assets efficiently and minimise tax liabilities.
- Language and cultural barriers: Dealing with estate planning across different countries can involve navigating language barriers and cultural differences, which can create challenges in communication and understanding.
Experienced international estate planning lawyers, including Raea Khan and Mark Lea of PBL Law Group, can help individuals anticipate and address these cross-border challenges by providing guidance on the most effective strategies for structuring and managing assets across multiple jurisdictions. By taking a proactive approach and seeking professional advice, individuals can ensure that their international estate plan is comprehensive, compliant, and effective in achieving their goals.
Are there tax implications for dual citizens?
A dual citizen may be subject to estate tax in more than one country depending on the situs of assets and inheritance tax laws. An experienced lawyer can advise on optimal planning using available exemptions and tax treaties.
Dual citizenship can create complex tax situations for estate planning, as individuals may be subject to the tax laws and regulations of multiple jurisdictions. Some of the key tax implications for dual citizens include:
- Double taxation: Dual citizens may face the risk of their estates being taxed twice, once in each country of citizenship, if proper planning is not undertaken.
- Conflicting tax residency rules: Different countries may have different criteria for determining tax residency, which can lead to confusion and potential tax liabilities.
- Varying tax rates and exemptions: Estate and inheritance tax rates, as well as available exemptions and deductions, can differ significantly between countries.
- Complexity in asset reporting: Dual citizens may be required to report their worldwide assets to the tax authorities of both countries, which can be a complex and time-consuming process.
PBL Law Group’s experienced international estate planning lawyers, including Raea Khan and Mark Lea, can help dual citizens navigate these tax complexities by developing strategies that take advantage of available tax exemptions, credits, and treaties. By carefully structuring the ownership and distribution of assets, and ensuring compliance with the tax laws of multiple jurisdictions, dual citizens can minimise their tax liabilities and ensure a smooth transfer of their estate to their intended beneficiaries.
Why should I engage a professional advisor for international estate planning?
Navigating the complexities of international estate planning often requires the expertise of a team of professional advisors, including estate planning attorneys, tax planning specialists, and financial planners. These professionals can provide invaluable guidance and support in the following areas:
- Legal Expertise: Estate planning attorneys with experience in cross-border matters can ensure that the testator’s wishes are properly reflected in Wills and other legal documents, while also ensuring compliance with the applicable laws and regulations.
- Tax Optimisation: Tax specialists can help to identify tax-efficient strategies, leverage tax treaties, and minimise the overall tax burden associated with the transfer of assets across borders.
- Wealth Management: Financial planners can work closely with the testator and their cross-border families to develop comprehensive wealth management strategies that align with the international estate plan and address the unique financial considerations of cross-border assets, trust planning and beneficiaries.
- Coordination and Communication: Professional advisors can facilitate the necessary coordination and communication between the testator, their family, and the relevant legal and financial institutions across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring a seamless and efficient estate planning process.
By engaging the services of Raea Khan and Mark Lea, PBL Law Group’s international estate planning lawyers in Sydney, individuals and families can navigate the intricate landscape of international estate planning or international law with confidence, ensuring that their wealth and legacy are preserved and transferred in accordance with their wishes.
Expert Estate Planning Lawyers for Cross Border Families
Whether you require comprehensive legal support or targeted advice on a particular matter, our expert international estate planning lawyers are committed to delivering exceptional service and practical solutions that protect your wealth, minimize tax liabilities, and ensure a smooth transfer of assets to your beneficiaries. Our estate planning lawyers are dedicated to helping individuals and families with cross-border assets navigate the complex world of international estate planning.
As experienced international estate planning attorneys, we understand the unique challenges faced by those with assets in multiple jurisdictions. We offer a variety of international estate planning services to support your needs at every stage of your life. Our lawyers are highly skilled in areas such as cross-border estate planning, tax optimisation, trust creation, and the preparation of wills and other essential documents that are compliant with the laws of various countries.
How Can Our Expert Lawyers Help?
Strata Law
Property and strata disputes, building defects claims, setting up new Owners Corporations and more…
Construction & Building Law
Construction and building disputes, building defects, delays and claims, debt recovery and more…
International Estate Planning
Cross-border estate planning, international wills and trusts, tax-efficient wealth transfer strategies and more…
Commercial & Business Law
Starting and scaling your business, banking and business financing, bankruptcy and insolvency and more…
Planning & Environment Law
Environment and planning regulation, land and environment court disputes, sub-divisions and more…
Wills & Estates
Creating, updating and contesting wills, estate planning and administration, probate applications and more…
Helpful Links
Site information
How We Can Help
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
Copyright © 2025 PBL Law Group. All Rights Reserved
