If someone dies in the UK

You will need to:

• Obtain a death certificate from the GP, hospital or coroner, depending on the circumstances of the death.
• Register the death within five days.
• Begin making funeral arrangements.

Further advice is available from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and Citizens Advice.

If someone dies overseas

All deaths must be registered in the country where they occur. Assistance is available from local authorities, tour operators, the police or the British Consulate. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) also provides guidance and support.

It is helpful to have the following information available:

• Full names
• Dates of birth
• Passport numbers and issue details
• Next of kin details
• Information about any pre-existing medical conditions

Registering a death abroad

If the deceased was from England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, the death must be registered in accordance with local laws in the country where it occurred and a local death certificate obtained.

Funeral arrangements following a death abroad

You can either:

• Arrange a burial or cremation in the country where the death occurred.
• Repatriate the deceased to the UK for burial or cremation

If repatriation is chosen, you will usually need:

• An authenticated translation of the foreign death certificate showing the cause of death.
• Authorisation for the removal of the body from the country where the death occurred.
• To contact the registrar once the deceased has returned to the UK.

Funeral directors with international repatriation experience can provide advice on the process and associated costs.

Arranging a funeral

Every family is different, and funeral arrangements may be influenced by:

• Religious or cultural traditions
• Personal preferences
• Costs
• The wishes of the deceased

Ceremonies can be led by:

• Religious ministers
• Civil celebrants
• Friends or family members

Burials and cremations require certain legal forms. If using a funeral director, they can help with paperwork and arrangements. Support is also available on funeral costs, readings, music and eulogies.

Religious and civil funerals

Religious leaders can provide guidance on funeral customs, services, hymns and other traditions. Local faith groups can also offer support.

Civil funerals

A civil funeral focuses on celebrating the person's life and is planned with a professional celebrant. Civil funerals can be held in most venues, including cemeteries and crematoria, and are suitable for both burials and cremations.

Planning ahead

Many people choose to record their funeral wishes in advance and discuss them with family members. Although funeral instructions included in a will are not legally binding, making your wishes known can help loved ones when the time comes.

You may also wish to:

• Join the NHS Organ Donor Register.
• Record wishes about body donation for medical education or research.
• Leave practical information such as details of your will, bank accounts, utility providers and funeral preferences.

Arranging a funeral yourself

It is possible to organise a funeral without a funeral director. Families choosing this option will need to arrange transport, complete the necessary paperwork and plan the ceremony themselves. Environmentally friendly, traditional and alternative coffin options are available. Read more about direct cremations.