Map the assets and jurisdictions
Prepare a simple list of material assets and where they are located. This can include Indonesian property rights or leases, company shares, bank or investment assets, valuable personal property and assets held outside Indonesia. The list does not need to contain every account number at the first meeting; its purpose is to show the legal landscape.
Also identify any existing will made in another country. Multiple wills can create conflicts if they revoke each other unintentionally or use inconsistent definitions. Cross-border advice may be required to coordinate them.
Family, beneficiaries and decision-makers
Explain the relevant family relationships, intended beneficiaries and any special concerns. If children are minors, dependants require support, or a family business is involved, the planning may need more than a simple distribution clause. The objective should be clear before the document is drafted.
If another person will be given authority to act during life, a power of attorney is a separate document from a will. Do not assume that an estate document automatically creates authority for current property, company or banking matters.
Bali property and lease interests
Foreign clients may hold contractual lease rights, company interests or other property-related rights rather than the same land title available to Indonesian citizens. The estate plan should identify what right actually exists and whether it can be transferred, assigned, inherited or otherwise dealt with under the governing documents.
Review the lease, company deed or investment documents rather than relying on a general description of the asset. Extension rights, transfer restrictions or shareholder agreements can materially affect what happens after death.
Execution, language and document storage
A formal estate document should be executed in the correct form and with the required understanding by the person making it. Foreign clients should discuss language ability and whether translation or interpretation is required. Names and identity information should be consistent with passports and relevant records.
After execution, know where the original is held, who has copies and how trusted family members or advisers will know that the document exists when needed. Secure storage is as important as careful drafting.
Review the plan when life changes
Estate planning is not a one-time task. Marriage, divorce, children, relocation, a new company, sale of a property, a major new lease or changes in residence can make an old plan unsuitable. Review the documents periodically and after significant life or asset changes.
For clients with assets in multiple countries, coordinate the review with advisers in the relevant jurisdictions. A Bali notary can handle the Indonesian notarial scope, while foreign-law or tax questions may require separate professional advice.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions clients often ask
Can a foreigner make a will in Bali?
A foreign client can discuss Indonesian estate-planning documents with a notary, but the correct approach depends on nationality, residence, asset location and existing foreign wills. Cross-border advice may be required.
Does an Indonesian will cover assets in every country?
Do not assume one will automatically controls assets worldwide. Foreign assets can be subject to other laws and formalities. Coordinate the documents with advisers in the relevant jurisdictions.
What should I bring to an estate-planning meeting?
Bring identity documents, a summary of family relationships, a high-level asset list, existing wills, and key property or company documents. The notary can then request additional information.
How often should I review my will?
Review it after major life, family, residence or asset changes and periodically even if nothing obvious has changed. Confirm that beneficiaries, assets and related documents remain accurate.
This page provides general information only. It does not replace advice on the facts of a specific matter, and legal, tax, immigration, licensing or other requirements may change.