Cremation in Germany: a modern and cost-effective form of burial

In Germany, cremation is a frequently chosen and often cheaper alternative to traditional burial. It offers the bereaved many individualised options, both in terms of the funeral service and the choice of grave type.

During cremation, the deceased is always cremated in a coffin. The ashes are then buried in an urn. With a few exceptions, cremation is recognised by almost all religions and faith communities today.

Various types of burial after cremation

The choice of burial site plays a central role in cremation. In German cemeteries, the resting period is usually 20 years. Relatives can choose between different types of graves, such as urn graves, urn communal graves or anonymous urn graves. Depending on the cemetery, there are also maintenance-free gravesites where the cemetery administration takes care of the maintenance - a popular option for relatives who do not live locally or are physically impaired.

Personalise the funeral service - or do without it altogether

In the case of a cremation, it is possible to organise a funeral service with a spiritual or secular ceremony. Alternatively, the funeral can also take place without a ceremony, which is particularly popular if there are no relatives present or if a simple farewell is desired. The organisation remains completely flexible - from classic to modern, according to the wishes of the bereaved.

Costs can be covered by the social welfare office

In certain cases, eligible surviving dependants have the option of having the relevant social welfare office or immigration authority cover the costs of cremation. The prerequisite for this is that the deceased or their relatives do not have sufficient assets. We will be happy to advise you on the requirements and help you with the application - naturally, free of charge and discreetly.