Reviewed legal insight

What should a family check when a deceased person left assets in Hong Kong?

Begin with the will, date of death and a list of assets in Hong Kong. The right grant (court authority to manage the deceased person's assets and liabilities) and applicant depend on the circumstances.

Before approaching a bank, organise what you know about the deceased and the estate—the assets and liabilities left by the person. Distinguish confirmed facts from missing documents and questions for a lawyer.

Review state
Human reviewed
Last reviewed
Sep 5, 2026
Applies to
HONG_KONG_RESOURCE

Understand what the grant covers

The Judiciary's Probate Registry guide distinguishes three grants. Probate authorises an executor (a person appointed in a will) to manage the estate under the will. Letters of administration authorise an administrator to manage it according to law. Letters of administration with a will annexed authorise an administrator to follow the will when no executor is appointed, able or willing to act. These Hong Kong grants cover Hong Kong estate assets; assets elsewhere require attention under the relevant law where they are situated.

Identify the facts that change the application

The Registry highlights the date of death, domicile (the place treated as the person's permanent home under legal rules), existence of a will, and the estate's nature and value. Domicile affects the applicable law; it should not simply be assumed from nationality or the place where someone died. The will and the availability of an executor also matter when identifying an applicant.

What to prepare

This is an initial organisation list; the Registry's required forms and supporting evidence depend on the application.

  • The death certificate, any will and later amendments, and details of any existing grant.
  • A list of assets and liabilities, identifying which are in Hong Kong.
  • The proposed applicant's relationship to the deceased and relevant family documents.
  • Facts about the deceased's home and residence, and questions about any estate process elsewhere.

Information boundary

This article provides general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Your facts and the relevant jurisdiction can change the result; ask a lawyer to assess your own circumstances.

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