Repatriation of the Deceased
Death in UK
Transporting the body or cremated remains of a deceased person overseas can be a very complicated process. The paperwork required and regulations are dependent on the country of destination and need to be checked with the relevant Embassy or consulate.
Certain Funeral Directors are experienced in dealing with the repatriation process and will ensure that all the requirements are fully met, including obtaining the permission of the Coroner four days before the journey is due to take place. The regulations from the country of destination have to be obtained from the Embassy and complied with.
Death Abroad
Alternatively, you may wish to repatriate the body to the UK for cremation or burial. You will need an authenticated translation of a foreign death certificate - this must show the cause of death - from the place where the person died, and an authorisation for the removal of the body from the country of death from the coroner or relevant authority. You must contact the registrar once the body is back in the UK.
For further information, please visit the Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) or consult your chosen Funeral Director.