surmatõend

A surmatõend, translated literally as "death certificate" in Estonian, is an official document confirming the death of a person. It is a crucial legal document issued by the state and serves various purposes, including initiating probate proceedings, settling insurance claims, and updating vital records.

The issuance of a surmatõend typically requires a medical professional to formally declare the death and provide a cause of death. This medical certificate is then submitted to the relevant registry office. The registry office, upon verification and processing, issues the official surmatõend.

Key information contained within a surmatõend includes the deceased's full name, date and place of birth, date and place of death, and the cause of death. It also bears the official seal and signature of the issuing authority.

In Estonia, the registration of deaths and the issuance of death certificates are governed by specific laws and regulations, ensuring the accuracy and legal validity of these documents. The process is designed to be efficient while maintaining the integrity of vital statistics. The surmatõend is a fundamental piece of documentation for legal and administrative matters following a person's passing.