Repatriation of Remains (International Transport)
Repatriation of remains is the complex process of transporting a deceased person from the country of death back to their home country for burial or cremation. This process involves strict international laws, health regulations, and extensive coordination between consulates and funeral directors.
The Complexity of Repatriation
Repatriation is exponentially more difficult, expensive, and time-consuming than domestic transport due to multiple layers of bureaucracy and regulatory requirements.
1. Mandatory Requirements
- Embalming: If the body is being transported across international borders, embalming is almost always mandatory, even if the final disposition is cremation. This is a public health requirement for transport via common carrier.
- Sealed Casket: The body must be placed in a hermetically sealed casket or an approved metal-lined shipping container (known as a zinc liner) to prevent any leakage or hazard.
2. Documentation and Approval
The funeral director must obtain several specific documents:
- Apostille: A translated and certified copy of the death certificate, often required by the receiving country's government.
- Consular Clearance: Official permission from the embassy or consulate of the receiving country, confirming all requirements have been met.
- Health Certificates: Certificates from local health authorities stating the cause of death was not a contagious disease.
3. Cost and Time
- Cost: Repatriation is extremely expensive, often costing $10,000 to $25,000 or more, not including the final service fees.
- Time: The process can take several days to over two weeks, depending on the countries involved and the need for translation and government sign-offs. Travel insurance sometimes includes a clause specifically covering repatriation costs.