First steps after a death
The right first step depends on where the death occurred and where the person lived. Do not assume that one country's forms or deadlines apply somewhere else. Ask Clarvia can help from anywhere.
If the death occurred in Luxembourg:
- A doctor prepares the medical attestation connected with the death declaration.
- The death is declared to the civil registrar of the commune where it occurred. The reviewed Guichet.lu source states that this must be done within 24 hours.
- Funeral or cremation arrangements require written authorization from the civil registrar. The reviewed source on this page's first official link states that, in principle, the body must be buried between 24 and 72 hours after the death occurred unless an extension is granted.
- Keep the death certificate and other official documents available for later procedures. Banks, pension authorities, insurers, employers, and succession procedures may each ask for evidence.
If the death occurred elsewhere:
Use the official guidance for that place. Tell Ask Clarvia where the person died, where they lived, and where the family is handling the next steps. Clarvia will not apply the Luxembourg deadlines above to another country.
Official sources checked by Clarvia
Not sure which rules apply? Ask Clarvia and include the countries involved.
How this page was prepared
This page is based on Clarvia task data that passed the graph's publication gate. Last reviewed: 2026-06-05. Check the linked official source for the latest wording. Clarvia provides practical information and signposting, not professional advice.