International Death Certificate: Form C and Procedures for Obtaining in Turkey

In Turkey: Form C can be obtained from the Population Registry Offices (Nüfus Müdürlüğü) at the provincial or district level.
Abroad: The document can be requested from Turkish consulates in foreign countries.


Apostille Authentication for Form C

For Form C to be recognized internationally, it must have an apostille certification under the Hague Apostille Convention.

Where to Get an Apostille in Turkey?
District Governorships (Kaymakamlıklar)
Provincial Governorates (Valilikler)

What If the Country Does Not Accept Apostille?
Some countries do not recognize apostille authentication. In such cases, consular certification is required. This involves:

  1. Legalization by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  2. Approval by the destination country’s consulate or embassy in Turkey

Using Form C for Inheritance, Wills, and Insurance Claims

Inheritance & Wills: Many foreign countries require Form C to process inheritance claims and validate wills.
Repatriation of Remains: If a deceased person’s remains are being transferred to another country, Form C is required by both Turkish and foreign authorities.
Life Insurance Claims: Insurance companies may request Form C to verify the official cause of death before processing claims.

Important: The document should be correctly notarized and apostilled before submission to foreign courts, embassies, or insurance companies.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I obtain Form C online in Turkey?
No, Form C must be obtained in person from the Population Registry Office or through an authorized legal representative.

How long does it take to get an International Death Certificate?
Processing time varies but typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on legal procedures.

Does Form C need to be translated?
✅ Yes, if the destination country does not accept Turkish documents, a sworn translation and notarization are required.

What if the country does not accept apostille certification?
If the country is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, the document must be legalized by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the foreign country’s embassy or consulate.

was last modified: March 27th, 2025 by Gökhan Cindemir