Requesting permission to embalm the body of a deceased person
In the Netherlands, it is not permitted to embalm the body of a deceased person or have it treated in any other way that has an effect lasting longer than 10 days. You can apply to the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport for an exemption from this ban.
Last updated on 13 February 2023
Lees deze informatie in het Nederlands
Exceptions from the ban
The embalming ban only applies to bodies that will be buried or cremated in the Netherlands. The ban does not apply to bodies that will be taken outside the Netherlands. Nor does the ban apply to bodies that are donated to science, e.g. for dissection.
Applying for permission
You can apply for permission to embalm the body of a deceased person to the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport.
Laws and regulations (in Dutch)
Wet op de lijkbezorging, artikel 71