Registering Death of Foreigner in Hong Kong

A Step-by-step Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining a death certificate in Hong Kong, based on the official processes outlined by the Hong Kong government:

1.Report the Death: he death must be reported to the Births and Deaths General Register Office or a designated police station (if the death occurs outside a hospital or institution) within 24 hours.

Either relatives, friends or hospital staff can report it.

Details Needed to report Death: Official full name, date of death, place of death, identification of death (HKID or passport etc.)

2. Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death: If the death occurs in hospital, it is issued by the attending doctor or the hospital where the death occurred. (Form 18). This document is crucial for the formal registration process.

If death occurs outside hospitals, the body need to be taken to a public mortuary for examination. A coroner may investigate if the cause of death is unnatural, unknown, or suspicious. If so, the process may be delayed until the coroner issues a Certificate of Order of Burial/Cremation.

3. Registration of Death: you need to visit the Births and Deaths General Register Office in Hong Kong to officially register the death. It’s advisable to make an appointment in advance to avoid long waiting times.

Hong Kong Island Death Registry: 18/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai. Kowloon Death Registry: 1/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon.

4. During the appointment, you’ll need to present following documents:

• – the Medical Certificate of cause of death (Form 18)
• – the coroner’s certificate, If applicable (for unnatural deaths).
• – the deceased’s identity card or passport, and any other relevant documents, such as a marriage certificate if applicable.
• Fee: NO FEE. Registration is FREE.
• 5. Death Certificate: Once the death is registered you’ll receive a Death Certificate, which is essential for handling the deceased’s affairs, such as arranging the funeral, closing bank accounts, or settling estates.
• Remember that if the death occurred under unusual circumstances, it might require a coroner’s investigation, which could delay the registration process.
• 6. For a certified copy of Death Certificate:
• Applying for a Certified Copy:
  • You can request a certified copy of the death certificate at the same time or later.
  • Fee: HK$140 per certified copy (as of current pricing).
  1. How to Apply:
     • In person at a Deaths Registry.
     • Online via the GovHK portal (requires registration and payment).
     • By mail (send application form, payment, and supporting documents to the registry).
• Processing Time:
  • In-person: Immediate or within a few days.
  • Online/Mail: Around 5-7 working days, depending on delivery.
• (for unnatural deaths).
• the deceased’s identity card or passport, and
• any other relevant documents, such as a marriage certificate if applicable.

For additional information, please click here.

Useful Links:

Hong Kong Island Death Registry:

18/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai.

Kowloon Death Registry: 1/F, Cheung Sha Wan

Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon.

• The Hong Kong Immigration Department (hotline: 2824 6111) or
• Indian Consulate at (852) 3970 9900