Apply for a death certificate Switzerland: a step-by-step guide
<p>The death certificate is the single most important document after a death in Switzerland: no funeral, no certificate of inheritance and no insurance payout without it. This guide explains where to apply, which documents you need, how much it costs and how to obtain international copies. The <a href="/app" class="text-primary underline">Wegbegleiter App</a> stores all certificates securely.</p>
What is a death certificate?
The death certificate is the official document confirming death, identity and civil status. in Switzerland it is issued by the civil registry office and is required for the funeral, inheritance, pension, insurance and contract cancellations.
Where to apply
The competent office is the civil registry office of the place of death. The funeral director usually handles this, but you can request copies yourself – in person, by post or via the municipality's online portal.
Required documents
Bring the following:
- Medical death certificate
- The deceased's ID card or passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate or family record (or divorce decree)
- If born abroad, an international birth certificate
Fees and processing time
A certificate costs in Switzerland between €8 and €25 depending on the municipality. Processing typically takes 1-3 working days after the medical certificate is submitted. Order 6-10 originals – bank, insurers, AHV / Pensionskasse, certificate of inheritance and landlord each require one.
International and multilingual certificates
For estate matters abroad you usually need an international death certificate (CIEC form A) or a translation with apostille. The civil registry office issues both upon request – around 5 working days. Funeral rules and inheritance tax differ significantly between Swiss cantons – always check your canton's regulations.
What to do about errors
Check date, names, place of birth and civil status immediately. The civil registry office corrects errors free of charge – report them in writing or at the counter. The Wegbegleiter App helps you store all certificates encrypted and forward them to the right offices.
Frequently asked questions
- Who can apply for a death certificate?
- Direct relatives, their authorised representatives and funeral directors or notaries with a mandate.
- How quickly is it issued?
- Usually within 1 to 3 working days after the medical death certificate is presented.
- How many originals are needed?
- At least 6-10 – every bank, insurer, estate authority and employer requires its own copy.
- Can I order it online?
- In many municipalities, yes – provided a first certificate has been issued in person.
- What does an international certificate cost?
- Typically €15-30 per copy depending on complexity and apostille requirements.
Wegbegleiter – the app for difficult moments
Checklists, letter templates and an encrypted emergency folder – free to start.