Making a Will in Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, about 662,000 residents in the city proper, has some of Canada's highest property values — which makes both probate planning and B.C.'s unique wills-variation rule especially relevant. B.C. is also the most modern province for wills, being the first to allow fully electronic ones.

What a valid will requires in Vancouver

Under B.C.'s Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA), a will must be in writing, signed at the end, and signed before two witnesses present together. You can make a will at 16. Unlike most provinces, B.C. has no unwitnessed holograph will — two witnesses are required. B.C. does, however, allow fully electronic wills (e-signature, video witnessing).

Probate and cost in Vancouver

Vancouver estates are probated through the B.C. Supreme Court probate registry. B.C.'s probate fee is about 1.4% above $50,000 — roughly $13,650 on a $1,000,000 estate, and far more on Vancouver's high-value homes. Named beneficiaries, joint tenancy (with care), and — for those 65+ — an alter ego trust can keep value out of probate.

If you die without a will in Vancouver

A spouse (including a common-law partner of 2+ years) gets household furnishings plus the first $300,000 ($150,000 in blended families), then splits the rest with children. Note B.C.'s wills-variation rule: even with a will, a spouse or child can ask the court to rewrite an estate that doesn't adequately provide for them — so document your reasons for unequal gifts.

Getting started

Simple estates suit a reputable B.C. online will signed with two witnesses; high-value or blended estates should see a lawyer or notary. Add an Enduring Power of Attorney and a Representation Agreement.

Frequently asked questions

Are electronic wills legal in Vancouver? Yes — B.C. allows fully electronic wills. How much is probate in Vancouver? About 1.4% above $50,000 — roughly $13,650 on a $1M estate. Do common-law partners inherit in Vancouver? Yes — a marriage-like relationship of 2+ years counts.

Not legal advice. General information about British Columbia law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with a Vancouver estate lawyer or notary.