The death of a loved one abroad, expected or not, is a difficult time for all involved. For multiple reasons, arranging the funeral and transportation of the remains can be a confusing and stressful process. Ashes repatriation is often a consideration for various reasons. It’s often easier to organise, there might be cultural reasons the body can’t be moved and for those considering a direct cremation anyway, this is often just a more convenient way to get the ashes home.
Even outside of immediate response to death, families may seek to transport ashes abroad later for a variety of reasons from finding a suitable scattering place to transporting to another loved one. Whatever the reason for wanting to transport the ashes, you will require certain documents depending on the country and airline. Some airlines may not allow for ashes transportation but most will as long as it is declared and the relevant paperwork is available.
1. Death Certificate
- A certified copy of the death certificate is required.
2. Cremation Certificate
- Issued by the crematorium confirming that the body was cremated properly.
3. Ashes Transportation Certificate
- Some countries require a specific document confirming that the ashes are safe for transport.
4. Sealed Container Requirement
- The ashes must be placed in a sealed urn that meets airline and customs regulations.
- A funeral director or crematorium can provide guidance on the appropriate container but this is usually an air-tight urn that is zinc lined.
5. Import and Export Permits
- Some countries require prior authorisation for the transportation of ashes.
- It is advisable to check with embassies and airlines in advance.
6. Airline Clearance
- Many airlines require advance notice and may have restrictions on carrying ashes in hand luggage or checked baggage.
- A funeral home can assist in coordinating this process.
Arranging a Cremation Abroad and Sending Ashes Home
In the case of a death abroad, you may consider a cremation service abroad and then simply repatriating the ashes home. This is slightly more complicated than just transporting the ashes but the process is still relatively similar. If a family chooses to cremate their loved one abroad and transport the ashes home, the following steps should be taken:
1. Selecting a Local Crematorium
- Find a reputable crematorium in the country where the death occurred.
- Ensure it follows local and international cremation standards.
2. Obtaining Necessary Paperwork
- Secure a death certificate and a cremation permit from local authorities.
- The cremation certificate will be required for transportation.
3. Choosing an Appropriate Urn
- The ashes must be placed in a leak-proof, sealed urn that meets transportation requirements.
- Some airlines and customs officials may require a non-metallic urn that can be scanned easily.
4. Confirming Airline Regulations
- Airlines have specific policies on traveling with ashes.
- Some airlines allow ashes in carry-on luggage, while others may require checked baggage handling.
5. Working with a Funeral Director or Courier Service
- Funeral directors can assist with logistics and documentation.
- Some international courier services specialise in transporting human remains and ashes securely.
6. Checking Customs and Entry Requirements
- Some countries require advance notification before ashes arrive.
- Contact the home country’s embassy to verify requirements and avoid delays.
A death abroad is a difficult thing to process and arranging the necessary paperwork in a time of grief can be incredibly stressful and painful. Even under the best conditions, ashes repatriation can be a confusing thing to sort. If you need our support during the process or simply want to get some advice, we are available 24/7 via our helpline.
