Losing a loved one is always a distressing experience. When a death occurs abroad, the process of bringing them home – known as repatriation – can feel especially overwhelming. The guidance below outlines the steps you need to take and explains what to expect, helping to make a difficult time a little easier to manage.
What is repatriation?
Repatriation refers to the process of transporting someone who has died abroad back to their home country. When a loved one passes away outside the UK, specific legal and logistical steps must be followed before they can be returned home.
Steps to take when a loved one dies abroad
If your loved one has died abroad and you wish to bring them back to the UK, follow the steps below. A lot of travel insurance services will include repatriation as a part of the policy, so be sure to check in advance.
1. Contact the local authorities
You must first notify the local authorities in the country where the death occurred. Contact the nearest:
British Embassy
High Commission
Consulate.
These offices can guide you through the local procedures, assist with paperwork and support the repatriation process.
2. Register the death locally
You will need to register the death in the country where it occurred according to local laws. This step is essential before repatriation can begin.
Be prepared to provide:
your passport
the deceased’s passport
details of the next of kin (if not yourself).
British officials or local police may assist you through this process.
3. Obtain the necessary documentation
To repatriate your loved one to the UK, you will need to gather specific documents, including:
the deceased’s passport
local death certificate (with an official English translation)
certificate of embalming (required for transportation).
If you need assistance obtaining these, the British Consulate can help.
4. Arrange transport back to the UK
Your loved one is typically repatriated by air, although ground or sea transport may also be possible in some cases. The process may involve:
co-ordinating with an international funeral service or transport provider
confirming travel insurance coverage (repatriation is often included in travel policies)
managing customs and airport procedures.
Costs can vary depending on location and services required.
5. Upon arrival in the UK
Once your loved one has arrived in the UK, you will need to:
report the death to the local Coroner, who will assess whether further investigation is needed before the funeral can take place
obtain a certificate for cremation or burial
for cremation: the Coroner’s Office will issue the certificate
for burial: this usually comes from the Registrar’s Office.
Note: The appropriate Coroner or Registrar will be based on the jurisdiction of the cemetery or crematorium where the funeral will take place.
6. Arranging the funeral
You can begin planning the funeral while repatriation is still underway. This includes:
selecting a funeral director
choosing a burial or cremation
informing family and friends.
Important: Do not confirm the funeral date or time until the Coroner or Registrar has issued the necessary documentation.
Additional support
Repatriation can be a complex and emotional process, but you are not alone. The British Consulate and your chosen funeral director can offer support at every step.
If you require assistance:
British Consular Assistance
Visit the UK government website. Search for the relevant embassy or consulate by country.
UK Coroner’s Office
Find your local Coroner's contact through your local council website.
Registering a Death in the UK:
Visit: www.gov.uk/register-a-death