Guinea Inheritance & Gift Tax Guide 2026

Overview — Inheritance & Gift Taxation

Guinea does not have a specific inheritance tax or estate tax law. Instead, the transfer of assets upon death is subject to registration duties (droits d'enregistrement) on the value of the assets transferred. These duties are levied at the time the succession is formally registered with DGI. Similarly, lifetime gifts are subject to gift registration duties. The rates vary based on the degree of relationship between the parties. The system is governed by the General Tax Code and administered by DGI. Succession law in Guinea is a mix of civil law (based on the French Civil Code) and customary law, which can create complexity in inheritance matters.

Registration Duties on Succession

When a person dies, the transfer of their assets to heirs is subject to registration duties. The duty is calculated on the net value of the estate after deducting debts and funeral expenses. The rates depend on the relationship between the deceased and the heir:

• Spouse and direct descendants (children) — reduced rate (typically 2–5%)
• Parents and siblings — medium rate (typically 5–10%)
• More distant relatives — higher rate (typically 10–15%)
• Non-relatives — highest rate (typically 15–20%)

The succession must be declared to DGI within a prescribed period (typically 6 months from the date of death). Late declaration attracts penalties and interest. Certain assets may be exempt, such as small estates below a threshold or specific categories of property.

Gift Tax — Registration Duties on Gifts

Lifetime gifts are subject to registration duties at rates similar to those for succession. The donor (or the donee, depending on the agreement) must declare the gift and pay the duty within a specified period. The rates vary based on the relationship between donor and donee, with spouses and direct descendants benefiting from the lowest rates. Gifts of small value (below a certain threshold) may be exempt. Gifts to charitable organisations registered in Guinea are generally exempt from gift duties. The gift must be recorded in a notarised deed (acte notarié) to be valid for registration purposes.

Wills & Probate

A valid will (testament) allows a person to determine the distribution of their assets after death, subject to the reserved portion (réserve héréditaire) for direct heirs under the Civil Code. Wills must be notarised or written in a specific legal form. Probate is the legal process of validating the will and authorising the executor to distribute assets. The process involves applying to the competent court with the will, death certificate, and inventory of assets. Notarial fees for succession and gift registration are typically 1–3% of the asset value. Foreign nationals with assets in Guinea should have a separate will covering their Guinean assets to avoid delays and conflicts of law.

FAQs

Do I need to pay tax on inherited property if I sell it?

Yes, if you sell inherited property, any gain over the deceased's acquisition cost is subject to income tax at your marginal IIT or CIT rate. There is no step-up in basis to the date of death. Holding the property for a long period may result in a significant gain.

What is the deadline for declaring a succession?

The succession must be declared to DGI within 6 months of the date of death. Late declaration attracts penalties and interest on the tax due.

Does Guinea recognise foreign wills?

Foreign wills may be recognised in Guinea but must go through the probate process in Guinea to be effective for Guinean assets. It is generally advisable to execute a separate Guinean will for assets located in Guinea.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about Guinean inheritance and gift tax for the 2026 tax year. Succession law is complex and intersects with civil and customary law. Always consult with a qualified Guinean lawyer or tax advisor for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide tax or legal advice.