BC probate takes 6-12 months total. Court processing is 4-8 weeks after you file. But preparation before filing takes 6-10 weeks, and estate administration after the grant takes 3-9 more months.
Quick breakdown
| Phase | Time |
|---|---|
| Gathering documents + wills search | 2-6 weeks |
| P1 notices + waiting period | 3-4 weeks |
| Court processing | 4-8 weeks |
| Post-grant administration | 3-9 months |
What causes delays?
- Errors in forms: Cause requisitions, adding 2-4 weeks each
- Missing documents: Can't file until you have everything
- Real estate sales: Selling property adds months
- CRA clearance: If requested, adds 3-6 months
- Disputes: Can extend timeline significantly
What you can control
- Start the wills search immediately (it's the longest single delay)
- Gather all documents before filling out forms
- Double-check everything to avoid requisitions
- Use professional help to reduce errors
Read the detailed timeline guide →
Return to the Complete BC Probate Guide →
Frequently asked questions
Can anything speed up court processing?
No. Court processing time is fixed. What you can control is avoiding errors that cause requisitions, which add weeks of delay.
Is Vancouver slower than other registries?
Vancouver and Victoria handle higher volumes, which can sometimes mean slightly longer processing. But the difference is usually minor (days, not weeks).