A succession certificate is granted by the District Judge where the deceased lived and lets heirs collect debts and securities such as deposits and shares. Heirs in Bhutan can apply through an attested power of attorney. Uncontested cases usually take a few months, and the money can then be paid into an Indian account and, where allowed, remitted.
- Document route
- Bhutanese certification, Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation, then Indian Embassy attestation
- Time difference
- IST is 30 minutes behind Bhutan all year
- Law
- Part X, Indian Succession Act 1925
- Court
- District Judge where the deceased lived
Succession Certificate from Bhutan: how it works
We gather the death certificate, the list of accounts and investments, and proof of the family relationship, and draft the petition with the court fee based on the value. Notice is issued to other heirs and published, and we deal with any objection.
Once granted, we present the certificate to the banks and companies and follow up until the assets are released. For heirs who are Bhutanese citizens, we plan how the funds will be received in India and remitted, if needed, within the rules.
What clients in Bhutan should know
- If the deceased left a will, probate or letters of administration may be needed.
- Provident fund and insurance claims often have their own nomination rules.
- Land is transferred by mutation, not by a succession certificate.
Step by step from Bhutan
Video consultation
A call at a time that suits Bhutan, after we have read your documents.
Documents signed in Bhutan
Bhutanese certification, Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation, then Indian Embassy attestation
Work in India
Our team files, appears and follows up in India, and shares scans of everything filed.
Result and handover
Certified copies and originals are couriered to you in Bhutan where needed.
The full guide
This page covers what changes when you are in Bhutan. For the law, the documents and the step-by-step procedure, read our main page on Succession Certificate, or see all services for clients in Bhutan and the Inheritance & Documents practice area.
Questions from clients in Bhutan
Can I apply from Thimphu?
Yes, through an attested power of attorney and affidavit.
How long does it take?
Often three to six months if uncontested.
What if the bank says a nominee exists?
A nominee receives the money but may hold it for the legal heirs; we advise on the position.