At a time of loss, knowing the next step can make arrangements feel more manageable. Cremation allows a dignified farewell that respects the wishes of the deceased and their family. Oganj is here to help you explore the options. This guide follows the main steps in Serbia, from the first conversation to placement of the urn; the exact documents are confirmed for your location and circumstances.
What to prepare before the first call
- The deceased’s name, their current location and whether a doctor has confirmed the death.
- Your name, phone number and relationship to the deceased.
- Any known wishes for cremation and details of Oganj membership, if applicable.
- Information about a pacemaker or other medical implant, if known.
You can call us before you have gathered every document. We can start with the information you have and discuss the next step. To report a death, contact Oganj, available around the clock.
1. First steps after a death
If the death occurs at home, a doctor must confirm it and issue a certificate. If it occurs in hospital, ask hospital staff about documentation and next steps. If the death is sudden or unexplained, contact emergency services or the police and follow their instructions.
After a doctor has confirmed the death, discuss collection and transport with the funeral service, following any instructions from the relevant authorities.
2. Documents and application
If available, have the death certificate, identification for the deceased and the person making the arrangements, and membership documents ready. Then check:
- Who can submit and sign the cremation application?
- How are the deceased’s wishes documented, and are additional consents needed?
- Are originals, certified documents or further registry extracts required?
- Who obtains the remaining documents, and how long will that take?
Mention a death abroad or any special circumstances during the first conversation so that additional documents can be identified in good time.
3. Arrange the farewell and understand costs
You can shape the farewell around the wishes of the deceased and their family. Discuss the venue, music and any religious ceremony, checking the latter with the relevant faith community. The farewell, cremation and placement of the urn are separate stages, so agree the dates and when family members need to attend.
Request a written quote that separates:
- Collection, transport and storage before the farewell.
- The coffin, urn and selected ceremonial services.
- Cremation, placement of the urn and cemetery fees.
- Any future lease and maintenance charges.
If the deceased was an Oganj member, talk to us about membership benefits and any additional charges. Reviewing the full quote helps you plan within your budget and avoid unexpected costs.
Tell the funeral service if the deceased had a pacemaker or other medical implant. The service can check what needs to be done before cremation; the family should not remove an implant themselves.
4. What happens during cremation?
Cremation takes place in a specialised chamber at high temperatures. After cooling, the remaining bone fragments are processed and the cremated remains placed in a container. The New York Department of State’s explanation describes this technical process and implant safety considerations. It is cited to explain the process, not as guidance on Serbian law.
How long does it take, and how is identity checked?
A clear schedule helps the family plan attendance and gathering. The time from reporting a death to placement of the urn depends on documents and available appointments, so agree when each stage is expected and who will update you. You can also ask how the facility documents identity during collection, cremation and placement of the urn.
5. Placement of the urn
Before choosing an urn, check which options are available:
- Columbarium: a structure with niches for urns.
- Rosarium: a landscaped area with compartments for urns.
- An existing grave: if cemetery rules and burial rights allow the urn to be placed there.
- A designated scattering area: only where cemetery rules provide for it.
The chosen location can become a lasting place of family remembrance. Cemetery rules and local regulations determine the options for placement, keeping an urn outside a cemetery and scattering ashes. Alongside choosing the urn, confirm its dimensions, necessary consents, deadlines and fees.
For common questions, read myths about cremation. When you are ready to discuss your wishes or the next steps, contact Oganj.