Holographic Will (Eigenhändiges Testament)

Pursuant to § 2247 of the German Civil Code (BGB), the testator may make a will entirely by his or her own handwriting and signature (holographic will or handwritten will). The signature of the testator must be made following the end of the text of the will. The testator should state the time and the place where he made the will. However, if the testator fails to do so, the will is still valid, if time and place can beotherwise ascertained. The signature should contain the first name and the surname of the testator. However, if the testator fails to do so, the will is still valid if the identity of the testator can be determined without doubt on the grounds of his signature and it can be assumed that the testator had the serious intention to make a will. Witnesses are not required for the validity of a holographic will and will not result in a void will. For more information on holographic Wills in Germany, please read our article Wills in Germany.