Who will take care of the children if one or both parents pass away? Who gets the house, or the money in the bank? These are not easy questions to think about — but they are essential when making a will in Singapore. Engaging a qualified lawyer can help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. Here are some expert insights and recommended firms to consider.

Why you may need separate wills for assets in different countries

For many expats living in Singapore, it is common to have assets, family ties, or investments spread across more than one country. While a single global will may seem simpler, it can create significant delays and complications for your loved ones.

Each country has its own legal system, probate process, and inheritance rules. A single worldwide will typically must go through probate in one jurisdiction first before being recognised in another. This can be slow and costly — especially where legal systems differ or additional documentation is required. In some cases, it can delay access to assets for months or even years.

By contrast, making separate wills tailored to each jurisdiction ensures your estate can be administered more efficiently. Local wills drafted in accordance with each country's laws are more likely to be recognised quickly and can proceed through probate simultaneously. This approach can significantly reduce delays, minimise administrative burdens, and help ensure your beneficiaries receive their inheritance sooner.

There are also important considerations regarding tax, forced heirship rules, and how assets are classified in different countries. A carefully coordinated multi-jurisdictional will structure can help mitigate risks and avoid unintended consequences.

Expert recommendation: Have separate wills in place for each country where you hold significant assets. As a minimum, have a will for your country of domicile or origin, and one for your country of residence, if they differ. With separate wills, each can go through local probate at the same time, saving time and money in the end.

— Lucy d'Ambrumenil, Director, Phoenix Wills

Phoenix Wills

• Address: Levels 6-8 Afro-Asia, 63 Robinson Road, Singapore

• Phone: 8669 6345

• Website: phoenix-wills.com

What happens in Singapore when a foreign will is presented?

For many locals and expats in Singapore, assets are often spread across more than one country — from property in their home country to overseas investments or business interests. Many also prepare a will before relocating to Singapore. When an estate is to be administered, a practical question arises: is the foreign will valid in Singapore?

A common assumption is that making a will for foreign assets means the process becomes straightforward. However, this is often where issues are discovered. When assets are held in Singapore, local legal processes may still apply regardless of whether a will was prepared.

For executors, one key complexity involves the resealing of a Grant of Probate in Singapore. This refers to a Foreign Grant of Probate that is recognised by the Singapore Courts so that local assets can be dealt with. This is only available for Foreign Grants issued in Commonwealth countries or Hong Kong. In other situations, where resealing is not available, a fresh application for a Grant of Probate must be made in Singapore.

This means that separate legal steps are still required in Singapore before assets can be accessed or transferred. Executors often have to manage these requirements alongside arrangements in other jurisdictions, while ensuring that local procedures are properly followed.

Where no valid will is in place, the position becomes more uncertain when a question of domicile arises. In such cases, assets are distributed according to the intestacy laws of Singapore or the home country, rather than personal intentions.

Understanding these steps early can make the will writing process significantly clearer for those responsible for carrying out the estate.

— Timothy Wu, Director, LP Law Corporation

LP Law Corporation, Advocates & Solicitors

• Address: #19-06 Parkway Parade, 80 Marine Parade Road, Singapore

• Phone: 6970 4184

• Website: lplaw.com.sg

Final thoughts

Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are honoured. Whether you are a local resident or an expat with cross-border assets, seeking professional legal advice tailored to your specific situation is essential. The experts above offer practical guidance and experience in navigating Singapore's legal framework — and beyond.