Holographic Will (testament olographe)
The testament olographe (holographic will) is the most accessible form of will under French law: it requires neither a notaire (French civil-law notary) nor witnesses. In return, article 970 of the Code civil requires that the will be written in full, dated, and signed in the testator's own hand. Any provision that is typed, printed, or written by a third party is subject to absolute nullity. Our tool generates a structured template that serves as your guide: you must then copy it word for word, in your own handwriting, on a blank sheet, then add the full date (day, month, year) and your handwritten signature. This digital document has no legal value in itself; only the fully handwritten document constitutes a valid will. This form is in English, but the document is generated in French, ready to sign and use in France.
Note: the questionnaire is in English; the generated document is in French.
The testator
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Frequently asked questions
Why must I absolutely copy this document by hand?
Article 970 of the Code civil requires that the testament olographe (holographic will) be 'written in full, dated, and signed in the testator's own hand'. A printed, computer-typed, or partially handwritten will is void by operation of law, even if signed. Our template is only a guide: the only legally valid version is the one you write entirely in your own hand on paper.
Must it be filed with a notaire or registered?
This is not mandatory, but strongly advised. You may file your handwritten will with a notaire (French civil-law notary) so that it is recorded in the Central Register of Last Wills (FCDDV). This ensures it will be found when the estate is settled and reduces the risk of loss or destruction.
Can I revoke this will later?
Yes. A testament olographe (holographic will) may be revoked at any time, either by a new will that expressly revokes it, or by the testator's voluntary destruction of the document (art. 1035 and following of the Code civil). It is recommended to explicitly state in any new will that prior wills are revoked.
Does this template cover bequests of bank accounts and life insurance?
No. Life insurance contracts follow their own rules (beneficiary designation with the insurer) and are not part of the estate. For bank accounts and other assets, the testament olographe (holographic will) applies within the limits of the reserved portion of the estate (art. 912 of the Code civil) for the benefit of forced heirs (descendants, spouse). Consult a notaire for any complex estate situation.
Other templates
See all →Demarches-Simplifiees.co — Demarches-Simplifiees.co is an independent service. This template is provided for information only and does not constitute personalised legal advice. Documents are issued in French.