What are the requirements for a valid will?

A valid will in Ireland must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by someone else in their presence and by their direction), and witnessed by two or more independent witnesses who are present at the same time.

A valid will in Singapore must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by someone else in their presence and by their direction), and witnessed by at least two people who are present at the same time.

A valid will in India must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by someone else in their presence and direction), and attested by two or more witnesses who each saw the testator sign or acknowledge the signature.

A valid will in South Korea must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by at least two people — or follow one of five statutory forms (notarial, holographic, sealed, dictated, or emergency).

A valid will in England and Wales must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by someone else in their presence and by their direction), and witnessed by two independent people who are present at the same time.

A valid will in California must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by another at their direction), and witnessed by at least two people who sign within 30 days of each other and in the testator’s presence.

A valid will in New York must be in writing, signed by the testator (or by another in the testator’s presence and at their direction), and witnessed by at least two people who sign within 30 days of each other and in the testator’s presence.

In Japan, a holographic will must be entirely handwritten, dated, and signed by the testator; no witnesses are required, but it must include a seal (hanko) to be valid.