Losing a loved one is undoubtedly a challenging and emotional time. This can make funeral planning and arranging a memorial, burial, or cremation feel completely overwhelming.

One of the most common questions that arises when planning a cremation is: Can a body be cremated without a death certificate? In the UK, the answer is generally no. A death certificate and the certificate for burial or cremation (“the green form”), or in some cases a coroner’s certificate, is required before a cremation can take place.

This guide explains the process and paperwork involved, including how to register a death, the required cremation forms, and the process for obtaining a cremation certificate. It also explores the legal aspects of notarisation and apostillisation for those needing documents for international purposes.

Registering the Death and Obtaining the Death Certificate

Before a cremation can proceed, death registration must be completed as a legal requirement. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, this crucial first step must be done within five days; in Scotland, you have eight days. Delays in death registration can cause complications with funeral planning, estate administration, and obtaining necessary documents like death certificates. While there are no immediate penalties, prolonged failure to register a death may lead to legal consequences, especially if the case requires a coroner’s involvement. 

The death must be registered at a local Register Office, where the person registering will need to provide:

  • A Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) issued by a doctor
  • The deceased’s full name, date of birth, and last address
  • Details of their occupation, marital status, and spouse (if applicable)

Upon death registration, the registrar issues a Certificate for Burial or Cremation, commonly known as the Green Form, which permits the funeral service to proceed. Additionally, a Death Certificate is provided, which is essential for legal and administrative matters.

Note that multiple copies of the death certificate might be needed for managing the estate, including dealing with banks, insurance, pensions, and so on. For those needing extra copies of the death certificate for handling financial or estate matters, they can be obtained from the General Register Office (GRO) online, by post, or in person. Standard copies cost £12.50, with a priority service available for urgent requests, at a slightly higher cost. The GRO index reference number is a unique identifier assigned to each registered birth, death, marriage, or civil partnership in England and Wales. It includes details like the year, quarter, registration district, volume, and page number, making it easier for officials to locate specific records. When ordering a death certificate copy, providing the GRO index number speeds up processing, ensures accuracy, and may help reduce search fees.

The “Green Form” and Alternative Permissions for Cremation

The Green Form (the Certificate for Burial or Cremation), given to you for free by the Register Office, gives official permission for burial or cremation. This form must be given to the funeral director, who submits it to the crematorium (or burial service). However, if a coroner’s investigation is required, they will issue a Cremation Form 6 instead, which serves the same purpose.

Applying for Cremation: Cremation Form 1/Form A

In addition to the Green Form, an application form for cremation (Cremation Form 1 in England and Wales; Form A in Scotland) must be completed by the next of kin or executor of the estate. This form authorises the cremation and is typically provided by the funeral director, though it may also be downloaded online. Once completed, the application form should be given back to the funeral arranger, who then passes it to the crematorium.

Medical Certificates for Cremation: Cremation Forms 4 & 5

Two forms (available on the GOV.UK website) were usually required before a cremation:

  • Cremation Form 4 – The Cremation Medical Certificate completed by the doctor who attended to the deceased, confirming the cause of death.
  • Cremation Form 5 – The Confirmatory Medical Certificate completed by a second, independent doctor verifying the details in Form 4. However, this was suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though the Coronavirus Act 2020 has expired, Form 5 will not be reinstated and it has now permanently been abolished. 

The funeral director usually liaises with the hospital or GP regarding Form 4. A doctor’s fee is typically charged, except in cases where a coroner’s investigation is required.

The Final Authorisation: Cremation Form 10

Before the cremation process takes place, a medical referee appointed by the crematorium completes Cremation Form 10, which grants final authorisation for cremation. This ensures all paperwork is in order and legal requirements are met. The bereaved are not involved in this process, and the fee is usually covered in the cremation costs. 

How to Get a Copy of a Cremation Certificate in the UK

A Cremation Certificate is a legal document issued by the crematorium to the next of kin or the person who arranged the funeral, confirming that the cremation has taken place. It is often required for legal purposes, such as managing the deceased’s estate or arranging the interment or scattering of ashes, and typically includes details such as the deceased’s name, date, time, and location of cremation, the authorising official, any removed medical devices, ashes collection confirmation, funeral director details, and witnesses.

For those needing a copy, it is best to contact the crematorium directly, as they handle all cremation work. If a cremation certificate is required for international purposes, it may need to be notarised or apostilled.

Notarisation and Apostille for International Use

The Cremation Certificate may be needed for legal or administrative purposes abroad, such as managing overseas assets or transporting ashes internationally. If the certificate is required overseas, it may need to be:

  • Notarised – A notary public verifies the authenticity of the original document with the issuer.
  • Apostilled – The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issues an apostille to confirm the notary’s signature and seal.  This extra step of authentication ensures the document is legally recognised in most countries.  For a select number of countries, you may also need consular legalisation – a step which our experienced team can handle for you if needed.

Notary.co.uk provides fast, professional services to assist with the notarisation and legalisation of both death certificates and cremation certificates, ensuring they meet the requirements for international use.

Conclusion

Navigating the paperwork for cremation can be complex, but understanding the necessary steps makes the process smoother. From registering the death to obtaining the required forms and finalising documentation, funeral directors and legal professionals can provide guidance and support.

For those needing assistance with notarisation or apostille services for purposes abroad, Notary.co.uk offers fast and reliable support to ensure all necessary documentation is properly certified and legally recognised, allowing families to focus on honouring their loved one’s memory with peace of mind.

Get in touch with us at 020 7630 1777, or email info@notary.co.uk