Repatriation from the UK usually takes between 5 to 10 working days, this time frame can sometimes vary depending on document lead times and flight availability, but the overwhelming majority of our cases go ahead without any hiccups.

Guide to repatriation from the UK

Register the death 

The family or a friend will firstly need to register the death of their loved one and provide us with a death certificate. The family will also need to provide us with the passport of the person who has died. Please do not worry if the passport has expired, this will usually not affect the repatriation. 

Collection and paperwork

Once we have the death certificate, we can apply for the coroners Out of England certificate (also known as the form 103), the Free From Infection certificate (FFI) and any other paperwork required for the specific country where your loved one is being repatriated to. Every country has their own set of rules and requirements before a repatriation can take place, this is something we are well equipped to handle and can make the arrangements for you. Our team will then arrange the collection and transfer of the person who has died safely into our care for embalming prior to repatriation. 

Repatriation coffin 

For every case, we provide a zinc lined, hermetically sealed repatriation coffin that is included in our quotation. If preferred, a selection of other coffins and caskets that are also suitable for repatriation can instead be purchased for an additional cost.  

Embassy paperwork 

Some countries require us to arrange specific paperwork which may also require a visit to the Embassy, Consulate or High Commission. Other countries may not require any additional paperwork other than the UK documents that we obtain on your behalf. A member of the team will be able to advise on a case-by-case basis. 

Flight booking and transport to the airport

 Once the paperwork is completed, we will then organise the flight. Arranging for your loved one to be taken to the nearest airport in their home country. It is essential to understand that not all airlines provide a repatriation flight service to every airport across the globe, the airline must accept human remains and the airport has to have the customs and cargo infrastructure to accommodate the arrival. 

Most International airports will be able to accept human remains and airlines such as Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, KLM, Emirates, Etihad, Pakistan International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines and more. We will, of course, make you aware of all the arrangements prior to making any bookings. 

Once the flight has been booked, we will transport your loved one to the airport, usually the day before the flight to ensure there is ample time for your loved one to pass through customs and security. 

We have extensive experience of working with a variety of airports and airlines across the globe and therefore can provide repatriation services to any destination worldwide. Our offices are located close to the embassies and airports which allows us to intervene swiftly if required. There is often the requirement to complete a customs clearance, and we have a number of relationships with reputable customs clearance companies ensuring a smooth repatriation.