⚖️ Registering the Death of a Cypriot Citizen Abroad
Based on the Civil Registry Law (Νόμος περί Αρχείου Πληθυσμού, Κεφ. 154)
When a Cypriot citizen passes away outside the Republic of Cyprus, it is the legal obligation of the family or representatives to register the death with the Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Department.
This process is governed by the Civil Registry Law (Cap. 154) and relevant amendments, which require that any vital event (birth, marriage, death) that occurs abroad be recorded with the Republic of Cyprus if it concerns a Cypriot national.
Why Is Death Registration Important?
Registering the death of a Cypriot citizen abroad is necessary for:
-
Updating the official records of the Republic of Cyprus
-
⚰️ Burial or repatriation procedures
-
Inheritance and property claims in Cyprus
-
Processing the cancellation of identity documents (ID, passport)
-
Applying for survivor benefits or pensions
Required Documents
To register the death, the following documents must be submitted:
-
✅ Official death certificate issued abroad (apostilled if outside EU)
-
✅ Official translation into Greek or English
-
✅ Copy of the deceased’s Cypriot ID/passport (if available)
-
✅ Application form M121 (Death Registration)
-
✅ Identity documents of the declarant (relative or legal representative)
-
✅ If submitted by a third party: Power of Attorney
Where to Submit the Application?
In Cyprus:
-
Civil Registry and Migration Department
-
District Administration Office of the last known residence of the deceased
From Abroad:
-
Cyprus Embassy or Consulate in the country of death
-
Via an authorized Cypriot lawyer acting with Power of Attorney
Legal Framework
The procedure is based on:
-
Population Records Law (Cap. 154)
-
Article 15A of Law 141(I)/2002 (as amended)
-
Relevant regulations issued by the Ministry of Interior of Cyprus
Failure to register a death may result in administrative delays in property or pension claims.
Timeline
Processing typically takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the completeness of documents and submission method (direct vs. consulate/lawyer).
⚖️ E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC – Legal Support
We offer:
-
✅ Review and translation of documents
-
✅ Drafting and submission of application M121
-
✅ Legal representation in Cyprus
-
✅ Power of Attorney preparation
-
✅ Online consultation in Greek
USA Phone: +13474034789
Email: info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
www.hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is it mandatory to register a death abroad in Cyprus?
Yes, if the deceased was a Cypriot citizen.
Can it be done without traveling to Cyprus?
Yes, through a consulate or lawyer with a power of attorney.
Is it needed for inheritance in Cyprus?
Absolutely. No probate or inheritance proceedings can begin unless the death is officially registered.
✅ Conclusion
The death of a Cypriot citizen abroad must be formally registered under Cyprus law to safeguard inheritance rights, finalize documentation, and comply with legal obligations. Our firm, E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC, can assist you fully remotely, with clear legal guidance in Greek.
Book your online consultation and let us assist you with care and professionalism.