Resealing a Foreign Grant of Probate in Singapore

If a loved one who is domiciled overseas has passed away but has assets in Singapore, you may need to reseal the foreign Grant of Probate here. This process allows the Singapore courts to formally recognise a probate order granted in a foreign jurisdiction, so that you can legally deal with assets in Singapore.

At PKWA Law, we make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We offer fixed, transparent fees and a free initial consultation to help you understand your options.

What is Resealing of a Foreign Grant?

When someone passes away domiciled in a Commonwealth country or Hong Kong and leaves assets in Singapore, you do not need to start the probate process from scratch. Instead, you can apply to the Singapore High Court to “reseal” the foreign Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Administration.

Once resealed, the foreign grant is legally recognised in Singapore and allows the executor or administrator to manage local assets such as:

• Bank accounts
• Insurance policies
• Shares in Singapore companies
• Property

When is Resealing Required?

You should apply to reseal the foreign grant if:

• The deceased was domiciled in a Commonwealth country or Hong Kong;
• A valid Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration has already been obtained in that country;
• The deceased owns assets in Singapore.

If the deceased was domiciled in a non-Commonwealth country, you will need to apply for a fresh Grant of Probate in Singapore, which is a longer and more complex process.  Applying for a fresh Grant of Probate is more complicated and takes more time, as we have to get in touch with a foreign lawyer from the deceased country to prepare court affidavits.

How Long Does It Take?

• Resealing a Grant of Probate:  3 months
• Resealing a Grant of Letters of Administration: 4 months
• Fresh Grant (non-Commonwealth):  6 months

Fixed Fees

Our fees are fixed with no hidden costs (excluding standard disbursements and GST).

Why Choose PKWA Law?

• Trusted family law firm and consistently named one of Singapore’s Best Law Firms by The Straits Times
• Over 30 years of experience in probate and estate matters
• Transparent fixed fees and efficient timelines
• Dedicated probate team to guide you every step of the way

We have helped clients and foreign law firms from countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, and across the Asia-Pacific region.

What Documents Do You Need?

To get started, simply provide:

• The original foreign Grant of Probate / Letters of Administration
• A certified copy of the death certificate
• The will, if one exists
• Proof of assets in Singapore (e.g. bank statements, title deeds)
• Identity documents of the executor or administrator

Let Us Help You

If you need help resealing a foreign Grant of Probate or are unsure whether this applies to your case, we’re here for you.