Prerequisites
The death occurred abroad or on a foreign seagoing vessel. The deceased person was [unclear] at the time of death.
- German nationals or citizens,
- a stateless, homeless person or foreign refugee with habitual residence in Germany.
You are eligible to apply if you are:
- Child of the deceased person,
- Parents of the deceased person,
- the spouse or partner of the deceased person
Documents required
- Foreign death certificate with translation, possibly with authentication (legalization or apostille)
- Proof of the deceased's registered address
- Your identity card or passport (or a recognized substitute identity document)
- Proof of the deceased person's marital status by means of a marriage certificate, if applicable with a divorce decree or death certificate of a predeceased spouse.
- Birth certificate of the deceased person
- Foreign documents, if necessary with translation and authentication
Was the deceased also a naturalized citizen, entitled to asylum, stateless, a homeless foreigner or refugee?
- Naturalization certificate or proof of special status
- You can find out about any further required documents from the relevant registry office.
Please note
The registry office responsible is the one at the deceased person's last German residence or habitual abode. If no such office is responsible, the registry office at the applicant's place of residence is responsible for the subsequent registration, or Registry Office I in Berlin.
Special regulations apply to deaths on sea voyages; you can inquire about these at the registry office.
Deadlines
There are no deadlines.
