How to Obtain a Succession Certificate in Pakistan – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

How to Obtain a Succession Certificate in Pakistan – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

In Pakistan, a Succession Certificate is a legal document issued by a civil court that authorizes the legal heirs of a deceased person to collect debts and securities left behind. This document is essential for transferring property, withdrawing bank balances, and claiming other movable assets. In this guide, we explain the complete process, requirements, and fees for obtaining a Succession Certificate in Pakistan in 2025.

Who Needs a Succession Certificate?

If a person dies without leaving a will (intestate), their legal heirs need a succession certificate to claim their rights in the deceased’s movable assets such as:

  • Bank accounts and deposits
  • Shares and bonds
  • Insurance claims
  • Vehicles

For immovable property (like land or houses), a separate process called the property transfer procedure applies.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Succession Certificate in Pakistan

Step 1: Prepare Necessary Documents

You will need the following:

  • Death certificate of the deceased
  • CNIC of the deceased
  • CNICs of all legal heirs
  • Details of debts, securities, and movable assets
  • Family registration certificate (FRC) from NADRA

Step 2: Determine the Jurisdiction

File the application in the civil court where the deceased permanently resided or where the assets are located.

Step 3: File an Application in Court

Submit a written application along with the above documents and an affidavit of truth. The court will issue notices to all legal heirs and publish a notice in the newspaper to invite objections from the public.

Step 4: Court Hearing & Verification

After the notice period, the court will record statements of legal heirs and verify documents.

Step 5: Issuance of the Succession Certificate

If no objections are raised, the court issues the Succession Certificate, authorizing heirs to claim and transfer the assets.

Fees for Obtaining a Succession Certificate in Pakistan (2025)

  • Court fee: Around PKR 2,000 – PKR 5,000 (varies by asset value)
  • Lawyer’s fee: Negotiable, usually PKR 20,000 – PKR 50,000
  • Miscellaneous charges: Photocopies, newspaper advertisement, etc.

Online Succession Certificate via NADRA

Since 2021, NADRA offers an online succession certificate service for movable property. Applicants can visit the nearest NADRA centre with all documents, and the process is completed within 15–30 days.

For more details, visit the NADRA Official Website.

Important Tips

  • Always include all legal heirs in the application to avoid disputes.
  • Keep certified copies of the succession certificate for multiple asset claims.
  • For disputes over inheritance, consider filing a partition suit in civil court.

Related Legal Tools

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, consult a licensed lawyer.

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