Property Inheritance Laws in Pakistan
How property is inherited in Pakistan under Islamic law. Shares for sons, daughters, wives, and parents explained.
By ilaan Editorial Desk
Updated 4 Jul 2026
Legal Framework for Property Inheritance in Pakistan
Property inheritance in Pakistan is governed by Islamic law (Sharia) for Muslims, plus the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961. Non-Muslims follow their own personal law.
Islamic Inheritance Shares
Son: 2 shares (vs daughter's 1 share). Daughter: 1 share. Wife: 1/8 if children exist, 1/4 if no children. Husband: 1/4 if children exist, 1/2 if no children. Mother: 1/6 if children exist. Father: 1/6 if children exist plus residue.
How Property is Transferred After Death
- Obtain death certificate from NADRA/Union Council
- Get Succession Certificate from Civil Court (takes 2-6 months)
- File Inteqal application at Patwari office listing all legal heirs
- Pay applicable taxes
- Property recorded in all heirs' names
Common Issues
Daughters being denied shares: illegal under Pakistani law. Property sold without all heir consent: challenged in court. Undivided property: heirs can demand partition through court.
Writing a Will (Wasiat) in Pakistan
Muslims can will up to 1/3 of estate to non-heirs. Cannot give more than Quranic share to any heir (unless other heirs consent after death). Get will witnessed and notarized.
Practical Tips
Get Succession Certificate before trying to sell inherited property. All heirs must sign on sale deed. Hire a property lawyer for complex inheritance cases.
