International repatriation—the process of returning a deceased person’s body to their home country—is often misunderstood. It involves not only emotional complexity but also logistical and legal challenges. Unfortunately, a number of myths surround this sensitive service. In this blog post, we’ll clear up the most common misconceptions and provide essential facts you need to know.
Myth 1: Repatriation Is Always Extremely Expensive
Truth: While international repatriation can involve various costs—such as embalming, documentation, airline fees, and local transportation—it is not always prohibitively expensive. Reputable funeral and repatriation service providers offer affordable and transparent pricing, with packages tailored to the specific needs of each case. In some instances, travel insurance or government support can help offset the costs.
Myth 2: Any Airline Can Handle Repatriation
Truth: Not all airlines are equipped or authorized to transport human remains. Specialized arrangements must be made with airlines that follow international mortuary transport regulations. These carriers require specific documents like embalming certificates, non-infectious disease clearances, and airway bills.
Myth 3: Repatriation Can Be Done Without Legal Paperwork
Truth: Legal documentation is a crucial part of the repatriation process. The required documents typically include:
- Death Certificate (local and translated)
- Embalming and sealing certificates
- Consulate or embassy clearance
- NOC from local authorities
- Passport of the deceased
- Airway bill from the airline Missing any of these documents can delay the process significantly.
Myth 4: Repatriation Takes Just a Few Hours
Truth: The process can take anywhere from 24 hours to several days, depending on the country of death, destination country, and how quickly the paperwork is processed. Factors such as weekends, public holidays, and coordination between consulates can also affect the timeline.
Myth 5: Funeral Homes Can’t Help with International Repatriation
Truth: Many professional funeral homes now offer comprehensive repatriation services. They coordinate with local authorities, embassies, airlines, and even funeral homes in the destination country to ensure smooth transportation and respectful handling of the deceased.
What You Need to Know:
- Choose a licensed and experienced repatriation service provider.
- Verify that all documents are correctly prepared and translated if needed.
- Ensure that the body is embalmed and placed in an airtight, leak-proof coffin as per international regulations.
- Keep a checklist to stay organized and reduce last-minute stress.
Conclusion
International repatriation is a dignified way to honor the wishes of the deceased and their family. Understanding the facts and debunking common myths can help you make informed decisions during emotionally challenging times. If you’re in need of professional repatriation assistance, our team is available 24/7 to provide compassionate, end-to-end support.
📞 Need Repatriation Support? Call Our 24/7 Helpline: 09871924516
We’re here to handle all the complexities so you can focus on saying goodbye with peace and dignity.
