Estate Planning for Foreign Nationals

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Protecting Your U.S. Property, Assets, and Heirs—Wherever You Live

Owning property in the United States as a non-U.S. resident comes with unique risks and responsibilities. Without proper planning, your estate may face unnecessary taxes, probate delays, or complications across jurisdictions.

At Willis & Davidow, we help foreign nationals structure their assets so their property is protected today — and passed on smoothly in the future.

Why Estate Planning Matters for Foreign Nationals

Why Estate Planning Matters for Foreign Nationals

Estate planning laws differ significantly between the U.S. and other countries. For non-U.S. residents, this can affect:

  • Who inherits your U.S. real estate
  • How much tax your heirs must pay
  • Whether your property gets tied up in probate
  • How ownership is recognized in your home country
  • Whether you need a U.S. will, a foreign will, or both

We guide clients through all cross-border considerations to avoid legal conflicts and unexpected tax exposure.

WHAT WE DO

Our International Estate Planning Services

Cross-Border Wills & Trusts

We prepare wills and trusts that align with your home country’s laws while meeting U.S. legal requirements. This ensures your wishes are respected in both jurisdictions.

Property & Estate “Checkup” for Existing Owners

If you already own U.S. real estate, we offer a full review to ensure your plan is current, compliant, and protected.

Ownership Structure Review

We evaluate whether your current structure is the best fit:

  • Individual ownership
  • LLCs or corporate entities
  • Revocable trusts
  • Joint ownership
  • Cross-border trust setups

Small structural changes can dramatically reduce probate risk and streamline management.

Probate Avoidance Strategies

International heirs often face lengthy legal processes. We design estate plans that help:

  • Minimize probate exposure
  • Streamline property transfer
  • Reduce delays caused by international documentation or translations

Tax & Compliance Guidance

Non-residents are subject to different estate tax rules. We help you understand:

  • Potential U.S. estate tax exposure
  • Tax treaties
  • Planning strategies to reduce liability
Global illustration representing foreign nationals planning for U.S. property and inheritance

Who We Serve

  • Non-U.S. residents purchasing or owning U.S. real estate
  • International families with cross-border assets
  • Investors holding U.S. rental or vacation properties
  • Foreign nationals planning inheritance strategies

Why Foreign Clients Trust Willis & Davidow

International Experience

We have worked with clients from more than a dozen countries and understand how cultural and legal differences impact planning.

Dedicated International Partnerships

When needed, we collaborate with:

  • Accountants
  • Tax advisors
  • Certified translators
  • Foreign legal counsel

Clear, Practical Guidance

We explain every step in plain language, outline your options, and build a plan that reflects your goals.

Why Foreign Clients Trust Willis & Davidow
CONTACT US

Contact Our Estate Planning for Foreign National Attorneys

When contracts break down or business conflicts arise, you don’t have to face them alone.

Willis & Davidow ensures your rights and finances are protected — because we know the other side is working just as hard to protect theirs.

FAQs: Estate Planning for Foreign Nationals

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Do foreign nationals need a separate U.S. will?

Often yes — especially if you own U.S. real estate. A dedicated U.S. will ensure your property passes smoothly without conflict between legal systems.

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Can a foreign trust own U.S. property?

Yes, but requirements vary. We evaluate whether your current trust or structure is valid under U.S. law and recommend alternatives if needed.

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What happens to my U.S. property if I pass away without a plan?

Your estate may enter probate, creating delays and requiring additional documentation from abroad. Planning ahead prevents these issues.

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