Repatriation: Bringing Someone Home After Death
When someone dies abroad, one of the first concerns for their family is how to bring them home. The process of returning a deceased person to their home country is known as repatriation, and it can be complex, expensive, and emotionally challenging.
This guide explains what repatriation involves, how it works, and what you need to do if someone you love dies overseas.
What Is Repatriation?
Repatriation is the process of transporting a deceased person from one country to another, usually from the country where they died back to their home country for burial or cremation.
It involves:
- Legal and administrative procedures in both countries.
- Arranging international transport.
- Obtaining necessary documentation.
- Coordinating with funeral directors in both countries.
How Does Repatriation Work?
The repatriation process typically involves the following steps:
Notify the Authorities
If someone dies abroad, you must notify the local authorities in the country where the death occurred. This is usually done through the local police, hospital, or coroner.
You should also contact the British Embassy or Consulate, who can provide guidance and support.
Obtain a Death Certificate
A death certificate will be issued by the local authorities in the country where the death occurred. You’ll need this document for repatriation and to register the death in Ireland.
Arrange Embalming (If Required)
Most countries require the body to be embalmed before it can be transported internationally. This must be done by a licensed embalmer in the country where the death occurred.
Obtain Necessary Documents
Repatriation requires several documents, including:
- The death certificate.
- A certificate of embalming.
- A “no contagious disease” certificate.
- A passport or identification for the deceased.
- Permission to transport the body.
The British Embassy or Consulate can help you obtain these documents.
Arrange International Transport
The body is transported by air in a sealed, zinc-lined coffin. You’ll need to work with an international repatriation company or funeral director who specialises in this service.
Clear Customs
When the body arrives in Ireland, it must clear customs. The repatriation company will handle this process.
Arrange the Funeral
Once the body is in Ireland, you can proceed with arranging the funeral as you normally would.
For more on arranging a funeral, visit our guide on how to choose a funeral director.
How Much Does Repatriation Cost?
Repatriation can be expensive. Costs typically range from £2,000 to £5,000 or more, depending on:
- The distance involved.
- The country where the death occurred.
- The cost of embalming and documentation.
- Air freight charges.
These costs are in addition to the cost of the funeral itself.
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Does Travel Insurance Cover Repatriation?
Many travel insurance policies include repatriation cover, which can pay for the cost of bringing a deceased person home.
If the deceased had travel insurance, contact the insurer as soon as possible to find out what’s covered and to begin the claims process.
Always check the policy details, as some policies have exclusions or limits on repatriation costs.
Alternatives to Repatriation
If repatriation is too expensive or not practical, you may consider:
Cremation Abroad
Having the person cremated in the country where they died, and then transporting the ashes home. This is usually cheaper and simpler than repatriating a body.
Burial Abroad
Arranging for the person to be buried in the country where they died. This may be appropriate if they had strong ties to that country or if repatriation is not feasible.
Final Thoughts
Repatriation is a complex and costly process, but it’s possible with the right support and guidance. If someone you love dies abroad, contact the British Embassy or Consulate immediately for assistance, and check whether travel insurance covers the costs.
For more on what steps to take, visit our article that covers what to do when someone dies.