Deaths, grief, funerals, bereavements – these aren’t nice subjects. However, knowing what to expect when someone passes away in Spain is best. While grief is no different in Spain than in England, the process following a death may differ somewhat.
This blog will outline what to expect following a bereavement in Spain.
Registering the Death
The first thing to happen after a death in Spain is that a Doctor will sign the death certificate. The death certificate will then be certified by a judge. If the deceased is not Spanish, the certificate will then be presented to the embassy or foreigner’s consulate in Spain. A death certificate can then be issued in the person’s native country. This certificate must be obtained in order to execute the deceased’s will. The local town halls where the deceased lived and where they died will also be informed of the death.
Arranging the Funeral
You can hire burial spots for when the time comes if you wish to be buried in Spain. It is important to note that these are only set for a specific number of years, after which the body is exhumed and re-buried in a communal site. However, you can also buy a burial plot outright, which will be permanent. Spanish burial sites usually have walls above the ground instead of underground, like in the UK.
You can also opt for your body to be shipped back to the UK for a funeral. This is an expensive option unless it is covered in some kind of insurance plan.
Burials usually occur within three days of death in Spain unless there is a delay for enquiries regarding the death. The body will stay with a Tantoria until the funeral, allowing loved ones to visit and pay respects.
The costs involved with funerals in Spain include:
- Sending the body to the UK if needed
- Plot rental or outright fee
- Cremation cost if no burial
- Funeral service fee
- Undertaker’s fee
- Refrigeration fee
- Catering and venue fees for the reception
As with UK funerals, it is always best to ask around for quotes from different funeral companies. If your loved one passes away in Spain, you should establish the type of funeral they would want and then contact the providers. It is important to inform loved ones if you have specific funeral wishes to make it easier for them when the time comes and to ensure you get the funeral you want.
Contact Spanish Probate Matters for Spanish probate assistance on 0208 1502010.
