Inheritance Law of the PRC (1985) — partially superseded by Civil Code 2021 · Yalla China
قانون الميراث (1985) / Inheritance Law of the PRC (1985)
Enacted: 1985-04-10 ✅ Effective: 1985-10-01
📝 Overview
Regulates distribution of property to heirs in China; partially superseded by the inheritance provisions of the Civil Code (2021).
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
The Inheritance Law and Civil Code inheritance provisions provide: (1) First-degree heirs: spouse, children, parents; (2) Second-degree heirs: grandparents, siblings; (3) Will: written and notarized will takes priority over statutory inheritance; (4) Share of illegitimate children: equal to children of valid marriage; (5) Foreigners inheriting property in China: generally subject to law of the state where property is located; (6) Real estate: inheritance of foreigners' real estate in China requires special procedures.
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
If you have property in China, draft a clear will specifying its distribution according to Chinese law. Consult a lawyer to ensure the will complies with formal legal requirements.
📎 Official source
National People's Congress of China
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026