Guide
Declaring a Death in the UK After Someone Dies in France
If your loved one died in France but also had assets in the UK, you may need to register their death with the UK authorities before you can obtain a Grant of Probate. This guide explains when it's necessary, when it isn't, and how the process works.
When someone dies in France, the death is legally registered with the French authorities.
However, if your loved one also owned assets in the UK, you may also need to have the death recognised in the UK before you can administer their UK estate.
This is an area that often causes confusion, particularly as the requirements differ depending on whether the deceased is repatriated.
Is It Always Required?
No.
If your loved one had no assets requiring probate in the UK, you may never need to register the death with the UK authorities.
However, if they owned assets in England or Wales that require a Grant of Probate, having the death recorded in the UK is usually an important step in administering the UK estate.
If Your Loved One Is Repatriated
If your loved one is brought back to the UK for burial or cremation, you generally do not need to separately register the overseas death with the UK authorities.
The General Register Office (GRO) records the burial or cremation, and this provides the necessary UK record for most probate purposes.
This is one of the reasons why repatriation can simplify certain administrative aspects of managing a UK estate.
If you’re considering this option, see our guide:
→ How to Repatriate a Loved One from France to the UK
If They Are Not Repatriated
If your loved one is buried or cremated in France but you still need to administer assets in the UK, you may need to register the overseas death with the UK authorities so that there is an official UK record.
Further guidance is available from the UK Government:
Register the death and obtain a death certificate
The UK Government explains when overseas registration is appropriate and how to apply for a UK death record.
What You’ll Normally Need
The exact requirements depend on your circumstances, but you will usually need:
- The official French death certificate (Acte de Décès).
- A certified English translation if requested.
- Details of the deceased.
- Supporting identity documentation where required.
Your UK solicitor will normally advise you if any additional documents are needed for probate.
Speak to Your UK Probate Solicitor
If you’re obtaining a Grant of Probate in the UK, your probate solicitor should confirm whether any additional registration is required.
Every estate is different, and requirements can vary depending on:
- The assets involved.
- Whether probate is required.
- Whether the deceased was repatriated.
- Whether financial institutions require a UK death record.
Taking advice before submitting any applications can save considerable time.
Final Thoughts
Fortunately, this is one of the simpler administrative tasks.
If your loved one was repatriated to the UK, there is usually nothing further you need to do regarding UK registration of the death.
If they remained in France but left assets requiring probate in the UK, speak with your probate solicitor and consult the UK Government guidance to determine whether an overseas death registration is appropriate.
The important thing is not to assume that because the death occurred in France, the UK authorities will automatically have a record of it.
