To comply with the Births and Deaths Registration Act, the reporting and registration of a person’s death involve specific procedures. This comprehensive guide outlines the necessary steps, highlighting key aspects to ensure a seamless process during this challenging time.
Reporting a Death
1. Choose the Reporting Channel:
- Department of Home Affairs: Approach specific officers at the Department of Home Affairs to report the death.
- South African Police Service (SAPS): In areas where the Department of Home Affairs has no offices, SAPS members can receive reports of death.
- South African Mission, Embassy, or Consulate: If the death occurs abroad, report it to the nearest South African embassy, mission, or consulate.
- Funeral Undertakers: Lawfully appointed funeral undertakers can also receive reports of death.
2. Completing Form BI-1663
- Form BI-1663 (Notification of death/still-birth) must be completed when reporting a death.
- Sections of the form are to be completed by:
- The person reporting the death
- A medical practitioner or, in rural areas, a traditional leader
- A Home Affairs official or, in their absence, a member of the SA Police Services
3. Issuance of Death Report (Form BI-1680):
- After registration, a Death Report (Form BI-1680) will be issued.
- Authorized individuals, including traditional leaders, SAPS members, and designated undertakers, may also issue burial orders (Form BI-14).
- Burial is only permitted with the authorization of a burial order.
4. Reporting a Death Abroad
- Deaths abroad must be reported to the nearest South African embassy or mission.
- The country where the death occurs issues a death certificate, which must be submitted to the South African embassy or mission.
- Assistance with paperwork and transportation arrangements to South Africa can be obtained from the embassy or mission if the deceased is to be buried in South Africa.
5. Corrective Action for Erroneously/Fraudulently Registered Deaths
If a person has been erroneously or fraudulently recorded as dead, it must be reported urgently to the nearest Department of Home Affairs office for investigation and corrective action.
Conclusion
This guide aims to provide clarity on the reporting and registration process for a death. By following these steps and completing the necessary forms, individuals can navigate this challenging period with the support of the appropriate authorities. For specific inquiries, individuals are encouraged to contact the Department of Home Affairs directly.