Relocation . Exhumation

Personalized . Experience . Peace In Mind

Relocation . Exhumation

Personalized . Experience . Peace In Mind

In Singapore, relocation and exhumation is the procedure of relocating or transferring the remains of one’s ancestors or family members years or even months after burial.

The relocation and exhumation burial remains or afterlife memorials (e.g., columbarium niches, ancestral tablets) is regulated by the National Environment Agency (NEA). Families must follow specific procedures depending on whether they are handling
exhumed remains or relocating ashes/tablets.

Presently (dated 2025), the exhumation within the CCK Chinese Cemetery (Notice of Exhumation for CCK Phase 9) are affected area : Blocks 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 14E, 14F, 14G, 17, 18 and 19. For more information, please browse at NEA-CCK exhumation programme.

For relocation involved of Mount Vernon Columbarium and Tengah Airbase. This exhume for the Tengah Airbase expansion had affected more than 80,000 graves have been affected. The Mount Vernon Columbarium (MVC) Re-location Programme had officially ended in December 2018. For more information, please browse at NEA - Mount Vernon relocation programme.

The Difference Between Relocation And Exhumation

Relocation

Moving ashes/ancestral tablets to a new niche or temple. Common reasons: Upgrading facilities, personal preference.

  • Its applied to ashes or ancestral tablets.

  • It will Require NEA permit for Government columbarium. For private columbarium or temple, "No Permit" required but there maybe management regulation involved.

  • The time are based on the leasehold that offered by the columbarium or temple facility or purchased by the affected family.

  • Depend on the new purchase of the location (government or private columbarium) and the logistic involved : Approx. $500 - over S$10,000 (for private)

  • A direct process unless there is tradition ritual require.

Exhumation

Its a removal of buried remains (due to land redevelopment

or family request). According to NEA’s rule : Graves in public cemeteries (e.g. Choa Chu Kang) must be exhumed after 15 years (Muslim graves: 30 years).

  • Its applied to buried bodies.

  • Require NEA permit for the relocation

  • The time limit of burial are approx. 15–30 years

  • The cost approx. S$500 - S$3000, subject on the burial ground and condition.

  • For exhumation, family discussion whether reburial or cremation.

  • Do take note, reclaim ancestral tablets / jewellery
    (if any).

What Family Need To Do?

  • Have a family discussion : The goal to achieve whether involve tradition custom or feng shui or a simple ritual.

  • Please do read up on the NEA regulation on exhumation or relocation.

  • Do take note on the application permit or regulations and time involve.

  • Have a site tour to find out more on the new location for your loved ones when relocation or exhumation being notified.

  • Seek clarification from sales agent for private columbarium or temple and NEA contact center for more information.

In Afterlife Nirvana, we do believe every family is unique, therefore our collaboration team offers bones and niche relocation services that are tailored to suit each family served.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do family need to be present during the exhume?

Its advisable with safety gear is required and check on the list of people who must be present at the site, grave or columbarium. Its highly advisable include the deceased immediate family, Feng Shui master, and company’s relocation master.

Is it a must to have a Feng Shui master during the exhumation?

Though its highly recommended the presence of the Feng Shui master is of uttermost importance as it helps to ensure that no bad luck is attracted or incurred during the ceremony. However, this is subject to individual belief and perspective. Do book free consultation for relocation and exhumation package from our collaboration partners.

How long can we store ashes at home before placing in columbarium?

Its up to 180 days, after which NEA requires placement in approved memorial facilities.

What happens if we miss the exhumation deadline?

NEA will proceed with exhumation and store ashes at government columbarium for 1 year before communal scattering.

Can we choose between reburial and cremation?

Yes, but cremation is strongly encouraged due to land scarcity. Reburial requires private cemetery space.

Let’s chat. No pressure, Just peace of mind.

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