Unabridged Death Certificate Assistance (South Africa)
An unabridged death certificate is the full official record of a death, issued by the Department of Home Affairs. It is commonly needed to administer an estate, settle insurance claims and deal with authorities abroad.
At a difficult time, Police Clear handles the application for you. Estimated 4 to 6 weeks, from R13,052.50 including VAT, with faster options on request.
- Description
Description
Police Clear (Pty) Ltd is an independent document facilitation company. We do not issue death certificates. The Department of Home Affairs issues them.
What is an unabridged death certificate?
It is an official government-issued document containing the full details of the person who has died. It carries more information than the abridged death certificate issued at registration.
When you need an unabridged death certificate
- Estate administration
- Insurance claims
- Legal processes
- International administrative processes, such as settling affairs in another country
What we handle
- Preparing and submitting the application
- Checking the documents before submission
- Guidance on the supporting documents required
- Follow-up with the relevant authorities
What you need to start
- The abridged death certificate
- A copy of the deceased’s identity document
- A copy of your own identity document
Send us what you have and we will talk you through the rest.
How long does an unabridged death certificate take?
Estimated 4 to 6 weeks, depending on Home Affairs processing and verification. Faster options are available on request. Timeframes are estimates, not guarantees.
Unabridged death certificate cost
| Unabridged death certificate assistance | From R13,052.50 including VAT |
| Turnaround | Estimated 4 to 6 weeks, faster options on request |
Pricing correct as at 16 September 2026. Prices include VAT at 15%, are quoted in South African rand, are subject to change without notice, and are indicative rather than an offer. A binding price is given in a written quotation. Any statutory fees charged by SAPS, Home Affairs or another authority are set by that authority and are payable in addition unless your quotation says otherwise. DIRCO does not charge for legalisation. Timeframes are estimates, not guarantees. Our refund and cancellation terms are in our terms and conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an abridged and unabridged death certificate?
The unabridged certificate contains the full details of the deceased and is the version usually needed for estates, insurance and use abroad.
How long does an unabridged death certificate take?
Estimated 4 to 6 weeks, depending on Home Affairs processing. Timeframes are estimates, not guarantees.
Who can apply for an unabridged death certificate?
Contact us with your relationship to the deceased and your reason for applying, and we will talk you through the application.
This page describes a document facilitation service. It is general information and is not legal or immigration advice. Requirements and timeframes are set by the relevant department, institution or authority, and change from time to time. Confirm them with that body before you rely on them.
