Losing a loved one is always difficult, and the administrative formalities should be as simple and supportive as possible during such times. Since obtaining a death certificate can be complicated in some countries, or it can feel uncomfortable to request one, you will no longer be systematically required to do so. Instead, you can now simply complete the “Death of a family member” declaration available in the Admin e-guide and send it to your departmental or group secretariat so that your leave can be registered in EDH.

Leave in the event of the death of a family member

In accordance with article R II 4.28 of the Staff Rules and Regulations, members of the personnel (employed and associated) are entitled to paid leave of:

• 3 working days for the death of a spouse/partner, child or parent
• 1 working day for the death of a sibling, parent-in-law or step-parent

This leave may be split up but cannot be taken more than thirty calendar days before or after the death.

In addition to leave, staff members meeting the criteria for the award of the international indemnity, fellows and graduates may be entitled to the payment of expenses relating to “travel for family reasons” (Articles R V 1.15 and 1.15 bis of the Staff Rules). The payment of such expenses is also subject to the submission of the “Death of a family member” declaration.

Cases requiring a death certificate

If you are a member of the CERN Health Insurance Scheme (CHIS) or of the CERN Pension Fund, please note that, in the event of the death of your spouse/partner or dependent child, you will still need to submit an official death certificate, issued by the relevant registry office, in order to access certain benefits or entitlements.