Laws and regulations on funerals
Here are the rules that actually govern what has to be done, and when. We keep track of them for you, but many people want to know anyway.
What does the burial fee cover?
Everyone registered as resident in Sweden pays a compulsory burial fee through their tax, whether or not they belong to a faith community.
It covers, among other things, a grave plot for 25 years, burial or cremation, and certain transport. Other costs are paid by the estate. See what is included and what comes in addition.
What happens immediately after the death?
- If the death occurred at home, a doctor must come there and certify it.
- The region or the municipality is responsible for the person who has died being transported to a mortuary. In practice the transport is often handled by the funeral director, who is on call day and night.
- The doctor who certifies the death notifies the authorities through a certificate of death sent to the population register.
Read more about what has to be done today. The answer is: almost nothing.
How quickly must the funeral take place?
Burial or cremation must take place within one month of the date of death.
Source: the Swedish Tax Agency. Last checked 2026-08-13.
Are the wishes of the person who has died followed?
Yes. Under Swedish law the wishes of the person who has died are to be followed as far as possible when it comes to the shape of the funeral.
For organ donation it is always the will of the person who has died that applies. If it is not known, but it can be assumed that a procedure would go against their view, no procedure may be carried out.
What is a burial ombudsman?
A person appointed by the county administrative board or the municipality, who represents those who do not belong to the Church of Sweden. Among other things the ombudsman is to make sure that there are grave plots within a reasonable distance for them too.
Can the person who has died be transported to another country?
Yes, and we handle both the practical and the administrative side. That help includes contact with embassies, translation services and booking flights.
If someone has died abroad we help in the other direction too, with the documents and the arrangements for bringing them home and for what has to happen once they arrive in Sweden.
What is an estate inventory?
A record of the estate’s assets, debts and parties to the estate. It must be made within three months of the date of death and registered with the Swedish Tax Agency, and it then forms the basis for who has the right to inherit.
We do it for you. Read more about the estate inventory and what it costs.
Where can we read more?
Download the brochure on death in a multicultural society for a fuller account, or read about funerals according to different traditions.