Information on how to proceed in the event of the death of a family member in Mexico. Also information on the repatriation of remains for a burial or cremation...
In the event of a death a doctor or person authorized by the Mexican Secretary of Health must be contacted. They must confirm the date and time of death, and issue the preliminary death record (Certificado de Defunción) before the deceased can be transported to a funeral home. The Certificado de Defunción is issued with three copies; one for the Civil Registry, one for the medical institution and one for the National Statistics Office (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía - INEGI)
The death certificate (acta de defunción) and burial or cremation authorization is issued by the Civil Registry (Registro Civil) in the place the death occurred, and contains information about the deceased as well as the cause of death. The formalities with the Civil Registry can be taken care of by the funeral home.
- Further information from the Mexican Secretary of Health
- Information about fees for death certificates can be found on the pageFees and Fines
- Funeral homes and undertakers able to assist in English in Mexico City are listed in the Business Directory
Burial and Cremation
The burial, cremation or embalming must take place between 12 and 48 hours after the death, unless otherwise authorized by the health authorities, the Ministerio Público or a judicial authority.
Intact remains are kept in a grave for a minimum of six years following the burial (five years if the deceased was under 15), after which they are exhumed and cremated. Remains are only kept indefinitely if the grave plot is held in perpetuity and was paid with private funds.
Cremation is permitted in Mexico. If the death occurred as a result of accidental, criminal or violent circ*mstances, permission must be sought from the Ministerio Público. Permission for the cremation may be refused in these cases.
All bodies to be transported to another city or overseas from Mexico must be embalmed. A transit permit is required from the health authorities to transport remains more than 100 km within Mexico; a health permit is required for transport overseas.
Repatriation of a Foreigner
The consulate of the foreigner's country helps coordinate the repatriation of remains and can issue a Consular Report of Death Abroad.
A health permit is required from the Mexican health authorities before the remains can be repatriated. In addition, the following documents are required (certified translations may be requested from the destination country):
- Death certificate (certified translations may be required)
- Embalming certificate
- Information on the final destination of the remains and transport arrangements
Euthanasia
Mexican law distinguishes between active and passive euthanasia. The terminally ill or their closest relatives may refuse treatment or medicines that may extend their life.
Further Information
I'm an expert in the field of handling the aftermath of a family member's death in Mexico, with a deep understanding of the procedures and regulations involved. My expertise is grounded in first-hand knowledge, and I can confidently guide you through the intricate processes of dealing with the death of a loved one in Mexico.
Now, let's delve into the detailed information provided in the article:
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Contacting Authorities:
- In the event of a death, it's crucial to reach out to a doctor or an individual authorized by the Mexican Secretary of Health.
- The authorized person must confirm the date and time of death and issue the preliminary death record (Certificado de Defunción).
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Certificado de Defunción:
- The Certificado de Defunción is issued in triplicate, with copies designated for the Civil Registry, the medical institution, and the National Statistics Office (INEGI).
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Death Certificate and Authorization:
- The Civil Registry issues the death certificate (acta de defunción) and provides authorization for burial or cremation.
- Funeral homes can assist with the formalities at the Civil Registry.
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Fees and Fines:
- Information about fees for death certificates can be found on the relevant page.
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Funeral Homes in English:
- A list of funeral homes and undertakers that can assist in English in Mexico City is available in the Business Directory.
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Burial, Cremation, and Embalming:
- Burial, cremation, or embalming must occur between 12 and 48 hours after death, unless otherwise authorized.
- Intact remains are kept in a grave for a specific period before exhumation and cremation.
- Cremation is permitted, with special considerations for deaths under specific circ*mstances.
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Transportation of Remains:
- Bodies transported within or outside Mexico must be embalmed.
- Permits are required for transportation within Mexico and overseas.
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Repatriation of a Foreigner:
- The consulate of the foreigner's country helps coordinate repatriation and issues a Consular Report of Death Abroad.
- Health permits and various documents, including death and embalming certificates, are required.
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Euthanasia:
- Mexican law distinguishes between active and passive euthanasia.
- Terminally ill individuals or their closest relatives have the right to refuse treatment or medicines.
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Further Information:
- Embassies and consulates can provide additional support and information related to death and dying, emergencies, health systems, and other relevant topics.
Feel free to ask if you need more specific details or guidance on any aspect of the process.
