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Funeral advice and news in Switzerland
End of cemetery concession: renewal or decommissioning?
A burial concession in Switzerland typically lasts between 20 and 30 years. When it expires, the family must choose: renew the concession, let the municipality reclaim the grave, or opt for another solution. This guide explains your rights, the procedures and the costs associated with each option.
Municipal funerals: support for people without resources
In Switzerland, no one should be deprived of a dignified funeral due to lack of resources. Municipal funerals guarantee minimum support for people without financial means. This guide explains who can benefit, what services are provided and how to apply.
Carer's leave and bereavement leave: your rights at work
When faced with the death or serious illness of a loved one, employees in Switzerland have legal rights to take time off work. The Code of Obligations provides for carer's leave (art. 329h CO) and recognised practices grant bereavement leave depending on the family relationship. This guide details your rights, the steps to follow and the differences between law and collective agreements.
Suicide of a loved one: police investigation, autopsy and release of the body
The suicide of a loved one automatically triggers a police investigation and a forensic autopsy. These mandatory procedures extend the timeframe before burial and add an administrative burden to an already traumatic bereavement. This guide details the specific procedures, the parties involved and the support resources available.
Wills and pets: who will look after my dog?
In Switzerland, a pet cannot inherit directly as it has no legal personality. A legacy with obligation allows you to entrust your animal to a trusted person by transferring an amount to cover its needs. Foundations such as the SPA or the Nana Foundation also offer secure solutions.
Stillborn child: civil registration and maternity leave
The loss of a child before or during childbirth is a heartbreaking ordeal. Since 2023, Switzerland has allowed optional registration of stillborn children in civil records, offering official recognition of perinatal grief. This guide explains your rights regarding registration, maternity leave and funeral arrangements.
Are cardboard coffins allowed in Swiss crematoriums?
Cardboard coffins appeal due to their price and reduced ecological impact, but the majority of Swiss crematoriums refuse them for technical reasons. Between insufficient calorific value, anti-pollution filters and strict standards, this green option faces the reality of facilities in French-speaking Switzerland.
The funeral reception: venues, caterers and budget in Switzerland
The funeral reception is an essential moment of sharing after the funeral ceremony. This practical guide helps you organise this gathering: choice of venue, caterers, traditional Swiss menus and budget to plan per person.
Transforming ashes into diamonds: prices and Swiss manufacturers
Transforming the ashes of a loved one into a diamond is a memorial option gaining popularity in Switzerland. This unique scientific process creates an authentic commemorative jewel from the carbon contained in the ashes. Discover Swiss manufacturers, actual prices and the manufacturing process.
Can you scatter ashes in nature or your garden in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, the law permits the scattering of ashes in nature without strict constraints, unlike many European countries. This freedom is accompanied by rules of propriety and respect, particularly concerning public places and private property.
Humusation and human composting in Switzerland: what does the law say?
Humusation, or human composting, is attracting growing interest in Switzerland for its ecological approach to death. But what about the legal framework? This article examines the current status of this practice, ongoing political motions and ecological alternatives already available.
Terminating Swisscom, Sunrise or Salt after a death: fees and procedure
After a death, terminating the deceased's telecom subscriptions is an essential administrative step to avoid unnecessary costs. Swisscom, Sunrise and Salt accept early termination upon presentation of the death certificate, generally without fees. This practical guide details the specific procedures for each operator and provides template letters.