Guiding You Through the Unexpected with Care and Expertise

When a loved one passes away abroad, Afterlife Transport is here to provide dignified repatriation services, offering guidance and support every step of the way.

Losing a loved one far from home is an incredibly difficult experience. Navigating unfamiliar laws, languages, and procedures can feel overwhelming. We specialise in global repatriation services, ensuring your loved one’s return to the UK or another country is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

With a compassionate team, extensive international expertise, and 24/7 availability, we’re here to take the stress out of this process, giving you peace of mind when you need it most.

Compassionate | Trusted | Global Expertise | Available 24/7

What to Do When a Loved One Dies Abroad

Notify Local Authorities

  • Report the death to the local police or relevant authority in the country where the death occurred.

  • Request an official death certificate in the local language.

Contact Afterlife Transport

  • Our team will handle the entire repatriation process, including all paperwork, transportation arrangements, and communication with local authorities.

Determine Insurance Coverage

  • Check if your loved one had travel insurance, life insurance, or other policies that include repatriation.

  • If applicable, provide us with the policy details, and we will liaise directly with the insurance provider.

Prepare Necessary Documentation

  • Documents typically required include:

  • Local death certificate (with official translation if needed).

  • Embalming certificate.

  • Transit permit and medical cause of death certificate.

Contact the British Consulate

  • They can assist with local procedures, provide advice, and offer support in navigating country-specific laws.

How Afterlife Transport Can Help

1

Document Handling

Obtaining and translating all required legal documents, including death certificates, embalming reports, and transit permits.

2

Coordination with Local Authorities

Liaising with local officials, funeral homes, and embassies to ensure all legal and logistical requirements are met.

3

Flight and Transport Arrangements

Securing flights with international airlines and arranging for transportation to and from airports, adhering to all regulations.

4

Mortuary Services

Ensuring the deceased is prepared according to local and international standards, including embalming and the use of a hermetically sealed coffin if required.

5

Concierge Services for Families

Assisting with travel arrangements for family members, including flights, visas, and accommodations.

6

Final Arrangements

Upon arrival, we’ll coordinate the handover to a local funeral provider or family representative. We will then provide you with all of the relevant documentation for your loved one’s funeral.

FAQs

Answers to Common Questions About Repatriation from the UK

    • Description text goes hereTo repatriate a deceased person to the UK, the following documents are typically required:

      • A local death certificate (officially translated into English if needed).

      • An embalming certificate.

      • A transit permit (authorizing transportation of the body).

      • A medical certificate stating the cause of death.

      • A certified copy of the deceased's passport or ID.

      We can help you obtain and verify all necessary paperwork.

  • The timeline varies depending on the country of death, local legal procedures, and how quickly required documents can be processed. On average:

    From Europe: 5–7 days.

    From other regions: 7–14 days.

    Delays may occur due to public holidays, local regulations, or complications in obtaining specific documents.

  • Yes, we can assist in arranging repatriation even without insurance. We’ll provide you with a detailed cost breakdown and work with you to find the most cost-effective options. Flexible payment options may also be available to support you during this time.

  • Repatriation costs can vary depending on factors such as:

    • The distance between the country of death and the UK.

    • The cost of documentation, embalming, and transportation.

    • Local fees, such as mortuary storage or permits.

    • Airline charges for transporting the coffin or urn.

    Typically, costs range from £3,000 to £8,000. We provide transparent pricing and will always discuss options with you before proceeding.

  • If documents need to be translated, we’ll arrange for an official, certified translation.

    • In some cases, UK authorities require notarized translations. This means the translation must be certified by a notary public to confirm its authenticity.

    • Additionally, certain documents may require an apostille to confirm their legal validity internationally.

    We’ll ensure all document requirements are met promptly.

  • If the deceased passed away due to a contagious disease, there are specific health regulations to follow:

    • The body must be embalmed or prepared in accordance with international health guidelines.

    • A hermetically sealed coffin may be required.

    • Airlines may impose additional restrictions or conditions for transport.

    We will ensure all health and safety protocols are adhered to and guide you through the process.

  • Absolutely. We respect all cultural and religious traditions and can tailor our services to meet specific requirements. Whether it’s adhering to Islamic burial practices, Jewish customs, or other traditions, we ensure everything is handled appropriately.

  • Once the deceased arrives in the UK, we can:

    • Arrange for the body or ashes to be transported to a funeral home or family residence.

    • Provide guidance on final funeral arrangements.

    • Ensure all UK entry requirements and documentation are in order.

  • We operate 24/7 and are always available to support you, no matter the time or day. You can reach us via phone, email, or our website contact form.

“Afterlife Transport guided us through a challenging time with professionalism and care. They made the process seamless, and we are deeply grateful.”

— Anna R., Manchester

Every Country, Every Regulation – We’ve Got It Covered

Repatriation requirements vary widely between countries, involving different legal and cultural procedures. At Afterlife Transport, we specialize in understanding and managing these complexities to ensure a smooth and dignified return.

For specific guidance about repatriation from a particular country, please contact us directly.