DECEASED INTERNATIONAL REPATRIATION SERVICES
International Repatriation
Specialist in Overseas International Repatriation to and from Australia.
INTERNATIONAL REPATRIATION SERVICES
International Repatriation & Deceased Transfer
Repatriating a deceased person from Australia to another country is a process that requires careful coordination and adherence to various legal, health, and logistical requirements. As a funeral director in Australia, here are the key steps and documents involved in facilitating international repatriation.
Please note that we are available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
WHAT DO I NEED TO SEND SOMEONE OVERSEAS?
For international repatriation, the deceased’s passport is normally required. In some cases, other identity documents from the destination country may also be needed.
Destination Details
To arrange repatriation overseas, we require:
✅ The country, state/province, and town/city of destination.
✅ The full name, address, and contact details of the receiving funeral director or person collecting the deceased at the destination.
✅ The name and address at the final destination.
Are You Accompanying Your Loved One?
International repatriation often involves complex flight connections. While it’s not necessary for families to travel on the same aircraft as their loved one, some choose to do so. If you wish to travel together, we can assist with coordinating flights. We recommend speaking with us early in the planning process.
Details of the Person Organising Repatriation
We will need the full name, contact details, and relationship to the deceased of the next of kin or person responsible for organising the repatriation.
These are the key things Robert Nelson Funerals organises when repatriating a deceased loved one overseas:
✅ Official death certificate – We obtain the death certificate from the relevant state authority.
✅ Embalming certificate – We arrange for embalming and provide the required certificate for international transport.
✅ Non-infectious disease certificate – We secure medical clearance confirming the deceased did not suffer from any infectious diseases.
✅ Export permit – We apply for and obtain the necessary permit from the state health authority to allow transport overseas.
✅ Consular documentation – We liaise with the destination country’s consulate or embassy to prepare and submit all required paperwork.
✅ Flight and airline arrangements – We book flights, handle airline documentation (e.g. airway bill), and ensure all transport requirements are met.
✅ Sealed coffin or casket – We prepare the deceased in a hermetically sealed coffin or casket as per international standards.
✅ Coordination with overseas funeral director – We liaise with a trusted funeral director at the destination to receive and manage the arrival.
✅ Next of kin communication – We keep you informed at every step and provide guidance and support throughout the process.
⚰️ Preparation and Transportation
Receiving Funeral Director: You will need to engage a funeral director in the destination country to receive the remains and assist with local customs and procedures.
🕒 Timeframe and Considerations
Processing Time: Repatriation can take approximately 8–12 days, depending on the destination country’s requirements and any legal or administrative processes involved.
Quarantine Regulations: The Australian Border Force has strict quarantine requirements for exporting human remains. Ensure all health and safety protocols are met.
Cultural and Religious Practices: Be mindful of the deceased’s cultural and religious customs, which may influence embalming and funeral practices.
💡 Additional Tips
Travel Insurance: Check if the deceased had travel insurance that covers repatriation costs, which can alleviate financial burdens.
Consular Assistance: The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) can provide guidance and support during the repatriation process.
Professional Networks: Utilise professional associations and networks to find reputable funeral directors and services in the destination country.
