Question 1

What are the options if the funeral is held at a funeral home?

Accepted Answer

The Hong Kong Funeral Directors can rent seven major funeral parlors in Hong Kong, including International Funeral Parlour, Global Funeral Parlour, Universal Funeral Parlour, Kowloon Funeral Parlour, Diamond Hill Funeral Parlour, Po Fook Memorial Hall and Hong Kong Funeral Home. Family members can choose to hold a one-day and one-night funeral service or a one-day funeral service (commonly known as “crossing the border”) according to their needs.

Question 2

Can funerals be held in churches?

Accepted Answer

Sabbath and Passover services can be held in churches or sanctuaries respectively. Apart from asking their respective churches if they can hold the funeral service in the same parish, Memorial House has been actively liaising with different churches and some of the churches are available for borrowing by our brothers and sisters. Some churches can also be used for memorial services by non-religious families, and if the deceased did not have any special religious background, he/she can also have a New Funeral Service in a church.

Question 3

What is the difference between a funeral in a hospital / mortuary and a funeral in a funeral parlour or church?

Accepted Answer

The main difference is the length of time. As funeral in hospitals or public mortuaries is simpler than funeral in funeral parlors or churches, and given that most hospitals or public mortuaries have restricted the use of equipment, the time for holding a funeral in hospitals or mortuaries is shorter, and if cremation is chosen, the whole day of the funeral can normally be completed within three hours.

Although the time is shorter, it is still possible to invite Taoist priests, Buddhist priests or priest to perform rituals for the deceased according to the religious background of the deceased. Some hospitals or mortuaries also provide space for short ceremonies, and crematoria also provide halls for ceremonies, so families are welcome to call again for more information.

Question 4

Cremation process: from the deceased's body to the top process

Accepted Answer

In the case of a natural death, the family will first obtain the hospital documents from the hospital after receiving the notification from the hospital, and then apply for a death certificate at the Joint Office before making a booking for cremation at the crematorium. In the case of unnatural death, the family should first report the death to the police and wait for the forensic pathologist to issue a Cremation Certificate (Form 11) before proceeding with the cremation.

Alternatively, the family can make use of FEHD's “Online Cremation Application and Pre-payment System 2.0” to fill in the cremation application form in advance, or go to the Crematorium Booking Office in person to submit the “Application for Arrangement of Private Cremation” before approaching the licensed undertaker of burials to finalize the booking of the cremation venue, time and date.

While waiting for the issuance of the Certificate, you can approach the licensed undertakers of burials in Hong Kong to book the crematorium site and discuss the funeral arrangements. In order to save the family's time, it is recommended that the family should authorize a licensed undertaker of burials whom they trust to handle the crematorium booking.

Question 5

What are the procedures for crematoria?

Accepted Answer

At present, there are six crematoria in Hong Kong under the management of the Government. Each crematorium is equipped with an auditorium for family members, relatives and friends to conduct various religious farewell ceremonies, which lasts for 15 to 20 minutes. Before cremation, a final send-off ceremony is held with the deceased. After the ceremony, the coffin will be put on the conveyor belt and the family members or funeral colleagues will press the cremation button to send the coffin to the cremator for cremation.

Question 6

Burial process: from the passing of the deceased to burial and erection of monuments

Accepted Answer

If family members wish to arrange burial for the deceased, they need to apply for a “Certificate of Death Registration (Form 12)” and a “Burial Permit (Form 10)” or a “Certificate of Approval for Burial of Dead Body (Form 11)” issued by a forensic pathologist at the Joint Office in person or by an authorized funeral agent with a hospital document issued by the hospital, and decide on the burial site and the relevant funeral ceremony.

Family members may consider purchasing a private cemetery or applying for a burial plot in a public cemetery under the FEHD. At present, there are four public cemeteries in Hong Kong which can provide earth burial service. It should be noted that there are no permanent earth burials in public cemeteries, and for skeletons buried in public cemeteries for more than six years, arrangements for removal or exhumation should be made, and the family can authorize a licensed undertaker of burials to do the work on their behalf.

After the coffin is buried, the family can hire a mason to erect a monument on the grave, and can consult the relevant professionals on the points to note when erecting a monument according to the religious beliefs of the deceased during his/her lifetime, e.g. choosing the right time and auspicious date for commencement of the work.

Question 7

What is Traditional White Packet? What is a Red Packet With Red Rope & Green Leave ?

Accepted Answer

Traditional White Packet is a token of appreciation given by the bereaved family to guests. It is typically packaged in a small envelope and distributed to each attendee during the night vigil.

The contents usually include a tissue, a piece of candy, and a $1 coin. The tissue is meant for wiping away tears; the candy provides comfort for the guests' sadness; and the $1 coin symbolizes that 'the funeral only happens once.' It's important to note that jiyi should not be taken home; it should be used immediately or donated to the donation box at the funeral home. Once the rituals are complete, jiyi envelopes will no longer be distributed.

Red Packet With Red Rope & Green Leave is given after the family has completed the mourning period. It is packaged in a red envelope containing cypress leaves, red string, and an even amount of money, usually $2, signifying the end of the funeral and bringing good luck. For Christian or Catholic ceremonies, although this custom does not exist, in the Chinese community, it is still appropriate to distribute blessing envelopes at the end of the funeral, which typically contain a single even amount of money as a sign of goodwill. Friends and relatives may take the red tassel gifts or blessing envelopes home for safekeeping. Whether it is jiyi or the red tassel gift, the funeral home will prepare these for the bereaved family to alleviate their worries."

Question 8

What are the taboos in Taoist funerals?

Accepted Answer

According to the Taoist custom, when friends and relatives attend a Taoist funeral ceremony, they should not be born in the opposite sign of the Chinese zodiac to the deceased, and newborn babies and pregnant women should also avoid participating in the ceremony. Attendees should dress in black, white and plain clothes, and should not shout and laugh in the funeral hall, which is disrespectful to the deceased. They should also avoid using words such as “thank you” and “goodbye”, and instead use the phrase “with all my heart” to express their gratitude.

Question 9

What do I need to be aware of with regard to burial goods?

Accepted Answer

Burial objects are usually the deceased's favorite clothes and belongings. As cremation is more common nowadays, it is important to note that burial goods must be combustible, while non-combustible materials such as metal, glassware and plastic products are not suitable for burial.

For in-ground burials, plastic clothing, woolen fabrics and furs should be avoided to prevent the material from penetrating into the bones when the body decomposes.

It is not recommended to put the photo of the deceased in the coffin, whether it is buried or cremated. This is to avoid bringing bad luck to the person in the photo.

Question 10

What is Seven Periods worship? What is the return of the soul?

Accepted Answer

Seven Periods," also known as "First Seven" or "Worshipping Seven," is a traditional mourning custom that begins seven days after an ancestor's passing. It involves performing a ritual every seven days for a total of seven times, thus completing the "Seven Periods.

The concept of returning of the soul in Chinese tradition holds that after a person dies, their soul returns home before moving on to reincarnation to see their family one last time. The specific day for the ancestor's return varies for each individual, and it generally occurs late at night. During this time, family members are advised to avoid being present to prevent the ancestor from becoming attached to the living world and missing their chance for reincarnation.

Question 11

Do ancestors have to wear a burial suit?

Accepted Answer

Traditionally, ancestors wear burial suits to symbolize a life full of blessings and longevity, as well as filial piety from their descendants. Generally, a burial suit is required for those over sixty years old who have children and grandchildren, or if the daughter is already married. If these conditions are not met, family members can still use the burial suit as a burial item.

If a burial suit is not chosen, ancestors can be dressed in their favorite clothing from their lifetime. However, it is important to note that if the body shows signs of swelling, a loose-fitting burial suit would be a better option.

Question 12

What is cleansing wine? What is a red tassel banquet?

Accepted Answer

Cleansing wine, as the name suggests, is used to remove impurities. In Chinese culture, places where rituals are performed are considered unclean and cold, which is part of the ritual process. Cleansing wine typically consists of seven dishes and a dessert, usually featuring cooked dishes.

The term 'red tassel banquet' refers to the red ribbons tied to the spirit tablet, symbolizing the completion of the mourning period and the removal of mourning attire. The red tassel banquet includes eight dishes and a dessert, usually featuring meat. Chicken and fish should have their tails removed, symbolizing the wish for ancestors to depart peacefully without lingering. It is also important to note that bright-colored utensils and food should not be used for the wine."

Question 13

Important Notes for Grand Portraits

Accepted Answer

Grand portraits (commonly known as car headshots) are displayed at the front of the funeral home or in front of the church. In hospitals or public mortuaries, they may be placed on a table or stand as appropriate. During the funeral, family members carry the grand portrait as they exit the hall and accompany it to the crematorium or cemetery.

There are no strict rules for choosing the grand portrait, but of course, it should only feature the ancestor and no other individuals. If it is a group photo, the funeral home can help convert it into a single portrait. Currently, it is also possible to dress the ancestor in different attire as per the family's request and the ancestor's wishes. If the photo has low resolution, it can be restored to clarify the outline. The portrait does not have to be a frontal view; families can choose side profiles, bright smiles, full-body shots, or other preferred angles.

Question 14

How to apply for the Burial Subsidy?

Accepted Answer

The Hong Kong Social Welfare Department provides a special allowance under the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) program, which includes a burial expense subsidy. The maximum amount that can be claimed may be adjusted based on social conditions, such as account balances and policies. The final claimable amount is calculated based on the actual funeral expenses incurred. If the ancestor was receiving CSSA during their lifetime, they are generally eligible to receive this subsidy. For inquiries, you can contact the social worker responsible for the ancestor or staff at the Social Security Office.

All applications must be submitted within six months following the payment date, accompanied by all relevant receipts as proof to process the reimbursement. Funeral homes also have staff dedicated to assisting with applications for burial expense subsidies; feel free to call for inquiries if you need this assistance.

Question 15

How much does it cost to organize a funeral?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a funeral can be divided into several areas, including the venue, ceremony personnel and supplies, and the small and large funerals for the deceased. Depending on the venue and religious rituals chosen by the family, the funeral costs may vary greatly, with no exact upper limit, ranging from over $200,000 for a grand funeral to over $10,000 for a simple funeral. Most of the companies in the industry have set up funeral service plans, if necessary, you can obtain the information from the major funeral companies.

Question 16

What is the difference between Taoist and Buddhist rituals?

Accepted Answer

Taoism and Buddhism are two major religions and the deities they worship are very different. In addition to the differences in funeral ceremonies, there are also differences in the ceremonial items. In Taoist funerals, Taoist priests will perform rituals according to the background of the deceased, such as opening the way to the mountain, sitting on the lotus flower, the five lanterns, or breaking the hell, etc., while in Buddhist funerals, the priests mainly chant the sutras. In terms of rituals, Taoist funerals will have various kinds of large paper bandages, such as spirit houses, meidi, red levers, etc., while Buddhist funerals will mainly use incense.

Question 17

What is unnatural death? How to prepare for a funeral?

Accepted Answer

If the cause leading to the death of the deceased is due to external action, e.g. poisoning, natural disaster, traffic accident, rather than old age or illness, the death is classified as unnatural. If the cause of death is unknown or the deceased has not been treated by a registered medical practitioner before his/her death/passing away, the death may also be classified as unnatural death first and will be revised after the cause of death is confirmed. Upon the death of an ancestor, family members may contact organizations such as licensed undertakers of burials to arrange for a funeral service to bid farewell to the deceased. At present, there are more than 120 licensed undertakers of burials in Hong Kong. Families planning to make funeral arrangements can refer to the website of the FEHD for details.

Question 18

What are hospital documents? What is a death document?

Accepted Answer

According to Section 16 (Restrictions on Removal of Dead Bodies) of the Births and Deaths Registration Ordinance, Chapter 174 of the Laws of Hong Kong, a Certificate of Registration of Deaths (Form 10) or an Order for Burial (Form 11) is required for the removal or burial of any dead body.

Death documents are divided into two main categories: natural death and unnatural death.

Natural death refers to when the deceased is confirmed dead by a doctor after being hospitalized for twenty-four hours. The doctor will sign the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (Form 18), Medical Certificate (Form 2), and the Certificate of Body Claim. The Medical Certificate (Form 2) can be for either "burial" or "cremation." If the family has decided on the method of disposition, they can notify the hospital or funeral service to obtain the correct Medical Certificate (Form 2). Both the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (Form 18) and the Medical Certificate (Form 2) are issued by the hospital, commonly referred to as "hospital documents" or "death documents."

Unnatural death refers to when the deceased is confirmed dead outside of a hospital or before being diagnosed by a doctor, or if the deceased has been hospitalized for less than twenty-four hours. If the body is transferred to a public mortuary, the forensic pathologist will first meet with the bereaved family and the police. In the presence of the police, they will conduct an identification process, after which the forensic pathologist will issue a "Certificate of Body Retrieval" and a "Certificate of Funeral Documents" to the bereaved family. Subsequently, the forensic pathologist will issue either a "Certificate for Cremation of the Body" (Form 11) or a "Certificate for Burial of the Body" (Form 11). The family or funeral service must take the "Certificate of Funeral Documents" to the public mortuary to obtain the "Certificate for Cremation of the Body" (Form 11) or the "Certificate for Burial of the Body" (Form 11). These certificates are issued by the public mortuary and are thus commonly referred to as "mortuary documents" or "death documents."

If the body is still in the hospital mortuary, the procedures are the same as described above; the only difference is that the documents obtained will be the "Certificate for Cremation of the Body" (Form 11) or the "Certificate for Burial of the Body" (Form 11) along with the Certificate of Body Claim.

According to Section 16 of Hong Kong's Cap. 174 Births and Deaths Registration Ordinance, if the deceased is classified as a natural death and urgent burial is required without being able to obtain the death registration certificate (Form 10) or burial/cremation order (Form 11) in time, one can report to the nearest police station to obtain a "Permit for the Removal and Burial of a Body" (Form 8) issued by the police.

Question 19

If it is cremated in a crematorium, what should I pay attention to when choosing the date of funeral?

Accepted Answer

Apart from the date of availability of the venue and the auspicious date of the funeral, it is also necessary to pay attention to the date of booking of the cremator. Generally speaking, funeral directors will advise families to choose a date two weeks later, not only because it takes time to order the casket and accessories, but also because the date of the cremator has to be matched with the date of the cremation.

FEHD accepts bookings for cremators within 15 days from the day following the date of application, except for red days and public holidays. For example, a cremator can be booked on 1 February for the period before 16 February; or a cremator can be booked on 1 January for the period before 16 January, but as 1 January is a red day, a cremator can be booked on 2 January for the period before 16 January, and the cremators for the periods on 2 January can be booked on 2 January for the periods on 16 and 17 January. The cremators for 16 and 17 January can be booked on 2 January at the same time.

In order to ensure that the specified date can be obtained, funeral directors usually have designated staff to order cremators from the FEHD, and they will queue up outside the office of the FEHD before it opens for booking of cremators. Generally speaking, most of the cremators will be booked within a few hours after the FEHD officially opens for business, and they will even be fully booked on an auspicious day for a funeral.

For special reasons, the FEHD can also be requested to open additional cremators, if necessary, please call the Hong Kong Funeral Service for enquiries.

FEHD has also put the date of cremator booking online for public access. Family members can check the date of cremator booking through the following link: “FEHD Cremator Booking Date Enquiry Website”.

Question 20

What should I do if my ancestor died of an infectious disease? What is the blue label? What is the yellow label?

Accepted Answer

The Department of Health in Hong Kong requires the use of labels to classify dead bodies according to the routes of disease transmission and risk of infection, to guide hospitals, public mortuaries and funeral practitioners in the handling of dead bodies, and to notify funeral practitioners of the type of dead body and the risk of classification according to the “Precautionary Measures Required for Handling and Disposal of Dead Bodies” labels which are classified into three categories, namely, red, amber and blue. All cremated remains will not be removed from the label until cremation has taken place. The first category, blue, indicates that standard precautions were taken in the handling of the body.

The first category is blue, which indicates that standard precautions were taken in the handling of the body, and that burial or cremation can be chosen as the normal procedure for the disposal of the body.

The second color is yellow, which indicates that additional precautions are required when handling the body.

A mortuary can be held in a funeral parlor or church, but those who come into contact with the body will be required to wear protective gear, and cremation is recommended according to the guidelines for the disposal of the body. For those infected with the New Coronavirus, they belong to the second label. Depending on the religious beliefs of the deceased, the family can choose the place of funeral, such as a church or a funeral parlour, and the funeral directors can recommend a suitable place for the funeral according to the family's request and provide assistance.

The third category is red, which indicates that strict precautionary measures should be taken when handling the body.

It is a high-risk category and the guidelines prohibit small burials, open contact and recommend cremation as far as possible to minimize the risks.

Source: Precautionary Measures for Handling and Disposal of Dead Bodies, 10th Edition.

Department of Health, Hospital Authority, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, September 2014.”

Question 21

What are the options for handling Cremated Ashes? (Placement in a niche, scattering, creating diamonds, making memorial items)

Accepted Answer

There are currently various ways to store or handle ashes in Hong Kong.

The more traditional method is to purchase a niche for the deceased, where the ashes are kept in an urn and placed in the niche (commonly referred to as 'placement'), providing a long-term resting place. FEHD is currently allocating renewable niches at Tsang Tsui Columbarium, Tuen Mun which can allow to renew in a certain period. Applications can be submitted monthly. For more details, you can refer to the 'link' or contact Memorial House for inquiries.

If there is already an existing niche for a deceased ancestor, another ancestor can be added to the same niche, commonly known as 'adding a place.' Please note that proof of relationship is required for both ancestors to be placed in the same niche.

Another increasingly popular method is green burial, where families can choose to scatter ashes in a memorial garden or at sea. Government-operated crematoriums and some cemeteries have memorial gardens for scattering ashes; if you choose to scatter ashes in a garden, you can also opt to have a memorial stone placed there. However, for scattering at sea, there is no option for a memorial stone. More details can be found on FEHD's website.

Families can also select a portion of the ashes to be made into crystals, diamonds, or glass memorial items. During the creation of glass memorial items, ashes are incorporated into the glass as part of the design.

Question 22

What are the existing choices of columbarium niches?

Accepted Answer

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department operates two types of niches for ashes: 'standard' niches, which can hold two ancestors, and 'large' niches, which can hold four ancestors. The government is currently accepting applications for niches at the Cheng Choi Crematorium. In addition to new niches, families can also choose to reuse existing niches that are available. The available crematoriums for reuse include Kolwoon, Diamond Hill, Fu Shan, Kwai Chung, and Wo Hop Shek (dates for applications are still to be announced by the government).

For the outlying islands, crematoriums in Cheung Chau, Peng Chau, and Lamma Island are available only to qualified residents of those islands.

The Chinese Permanent Cemetery Management Committee offers 'ordinary niches,' which can hold two ancestors, and 'family niches,' which can hold four ancestors. The availability of niches from the committee will vary based on the quantity at different cemeteries, and applications can be made for cemeteries in Aberdeen, Tsuen Wan, Chai Wan, and Tseung Kwan O.

*For more details, please refer to the 'New Niche Information Release Station' of the Chinese Permanent Cemetery.

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