If you have moved to Nova Scotia from another province or from outside Canada, you may be wondering whether your existing Will is still valid. The short answer depends on where the Will was made and what it says.
Wills Made in Other Canadian Provinces
In most cases, a Will that was validly executed in another Canadian province remains valid in Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia's Wills Act recognizes Wills that were made in accordance with the law of the place where they were executed. A Will properly witnessed and signed in Ontario, British Columbia, or any other province should be recognized here.
However, the Will was written with the laws of another province in mind. Some provisions may not work as intended under Nova Scotia law — particularly around spousal rights, matrimonial property, or the specific powers given to your Executor. A review is strongly recommended after any interprovincial move.
Wills Made Outside Canada
A foreign Will may or may not be valid in Nova Scotia, depending on whether it meets the formal requirements recognized here. Even if valid, a foreign Will that deals with Nova Scotia property can create practical complications in the probate process.
If you have moved from outside Canada and own Nova Scotia property, making a new Will here is usually the clearest solution.
When You Should Make a New Will
Beyond the legal questions, a move to Nova Scotia is a natural trigger for reviewing your estate plan. Has your family situation changed? Are your named Executor and beneficiaries still appropriate? Does your Will reflect your current assets, which may now be in a different province or country?
Annual updates are included at no charge through this service — but a move is a good reason to start fresh rather than amend.