Documents Required for
International Repatriation
International repatriation requires a variety of official documents.
The exact requirements depend on the country of origin, destination country and individual circumstances.
Our team ensures that all required documents are prepared correctly and in accordance with international regulations.
⸻
📄 Civil and Official Documents
🧾 Death Certificate
The official document issued by the civil registry office confirming the death.
It is usually issued in the local language of the place of death and is required for all further procedures.
⸻
Death Register Extract
In some cases, a death register extract may be issued instead of a full certificate, depending on documentation status and local regulations.
⸻
International Death Certificate
An international version of the death certificate may be issued in multiple languages, allowing it to be used across different countries without translation.
⸻
Apostille or Legalization
Depending on the destination country, official documents may need to be certified.
This is done either through:
* an apostille
* or a legalization process
These confirm the authenticity of the documents for international use.
⸻
Medical Documentation
Death Notification (Medical Certificate of Death)
In many countries, this document contains medical information about the cause of death.
It may include:
* a non-confidential part
* confidential sections used for authorities or medical institutions
⸻
Medical Clearance / Health Certificate
Some countries or consulates require a declaration confirming that there are no health-related concerns affecting transport.
⸻
Second Examination (if required)
In certain cases, an additional official examination by a medical authority may be required, for example:
* before cremation
* or for international transport approval
Requirements vary depending on local regulations.
⸻
Preparation and Funeral Documents
Cremation Certificate
Issued by the crematorium, confirming that cremation has taken place.
⸻
Embalming Certificate
Proof that the deceased has been prepared according to international transport requirements.
⸻
Embalming Report
In some cases, a detailed report of the embalming procedure may be required.
⸻
Zinc Coffin Sealing Certificate
For international coffin transport, a sealed inner lining (often zinc) may be required.
A certificate can confirm that the coffin has been properly sealed in accordance with transport and safety regulations.
⸻
Transport Documents
Corpse Passport (Leichenpass)
An official document authorizing the international transport of a deceased person.
It specifies:
* place of departure
* destination country
* transport conditions
⸻
Urn Transport Document
Required for the international transport of cremated remains.
⸻
Air Waybill (AWB)
The official transport document issued by the airline for cargo handling.
It is required for all international air shipments.
⸻
Customs Declaration
Required for international transport to ensure compliance with import and export regulations.
⸻
Consular and Special Documents
Depending on the destination country, additional documents may be required, such as:
* consular certificates
* declarations for international transport
* sworn statements or affidavits
In some countries, specific declarations may be required from the funeral director or responsible authority.
⸻
Important Information
Document requirements vary depending on:
* destination country
* transport method (coffin or urn)
* local regulations
* individual case circumstances
For this reason, each case must be assessed individually.
⸻
Our Support
We handle all required documentation and coordinate with authorities, embassies, consulates and airlines to ensure a smooth and compliant process.
⸻
Get Assistance
Our team will guide you through all required documents and procedures.
Internationale Dokumente & Unterlagen für Überführungen aus und nach Deutschland
Internationale Überführungen und Rückführungen aus und nach Deutschland erfordern häufig umfangreiche Dokumentationen sowie behördliche und konsularische Unterlagen.
Je nach Zielland können unterschiedliche internationale Dokumente, Übersetzungen, Freigaben und Transportunterlagen erforderlich sein.
International Repatriation Service Germany unterstützt Angehörige, Bestatter, Versicherungen und internationale Partner bei organisatorischen Abläufen sowie internationalen Dokumentationen für weltweite Überführungen und Rückführungen.