How to officially register a death in temporarily occupied territories
Citizens of Ukraine residing in temporarily occupied territories (TOT) often face difficulties when registering legal facts, in particular the death of loved ones. Since documents issued by the occupation authorities have no legal force in Ukraine, relatives must apply to Ukrainian state authorities to establish the fact of death.
In order to obtain a state-issued death certificate, the relatives of the deceased need to apply to any court in territory controlled by Ukraine. Copies of documents confirming the death, as well as proof of family ties, must be attached to the application. These can be medical certificates, photographs, or witness statements.
Judicial review of such cases takes place under a simplified procedure. Usually, a decision is made within 24 hours after the application is submitted. After the court recognizes the fact of death, the applicant receives a copy of the court decision, which serves as the basis for applying to the Civil Registry Office (RATS).
At the Civil Registry Office, an official Ukrainian death certificate is issued based on the court decision. This document is necessary for the subsequent processing of inheritance, receiving social payments, and settling other legal matters.
It is important to remember that the Ukrainian state has simplified this process for residents of occupied territories so that they can protect their rights. In case of difficulties, citizens can seek free legal aid from legal assistance centers or specialized non-governmental organizations.