A death at home will require you to call an ambulance service such as ER24 or Netcare 911. Paramedics will be able to confirm the cause of death and assist in transporting the body to the mortuary if necessary.
The next step is to obtain a death certificate. Death certificates serve as the only legal evidence that someone has died. While the government uses it to stop grants, pension payments, and benefits, family members need it to settle the affairs of their loved ones.
In South Africa, the death of a person must be registered according to law. There can be no burial without a burial order. Death certificates are issued upon receipt of notification from the Department of Home Affairs.
You must register a death within five days unless an investigation is conducted, which may take longer. To obtain a death certificate, contact your local DHA office. An abridged death certificate will be provided free of charge as part of the death registration process, provided a South African Embassy or Mission is notified of a death abroad.
Obtaining a Copy of an Unabridged Death Certificate
Obtaining an unabridged death certificate from the Department of Home Affairs can be lengthy and frustrating. A legal document company, such as Doc Assist, may be able to expedite the process.
Only applications that have already been submitted to a DHA office in South Africa can be expedited. Depending on the speed at which the records can be retrieved from the archives, the expediting process may take 3 to 6 weeks. The number of death certificates you require will vary based on the type and number you need.
We assist South Africans in obtaining legal documents rapidly and easily through Doc Assist. For instance, if you need a copy of your birth, death or marriage certificate, we can help. If necessary, we can expedite your application. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Doc Assist to receive more information and assistance today!