Returning a Loved One Overseas — With Dignity and Care
When someone dies in the United Kingdom but wishes to be laid to rest in another country, their body or ashes must be repatriated overseas. This process involves legal paperwork, consular permissions and international transport. For families, it can feel complex and emotional — but with Lodge Brothers, you will never face it alone.
We provide full outbound repatriation services, ensuring your loved one is taken home respectfully, safely and in accordance with all legal, cultural and religious requirements.
What Is Outbound Repatriation?
Outbound repatriation means arranging for a loved one who has died in the UK to be returned to another country for burial, cremation or a memorial service. This may be requested because of:
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Religious or cultural traditions
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Family roots overseas
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A wish expressed in a will or funeral plan
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A desire to be reunited with family members abroad
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A wish to be remembered in a particular home country
Our role is to make this possible — carefully, professionally and with the highest respect.
How We Help — Step by Step
Our team manages every stage of the process for you:
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Step 1 – Initial Call and Planning
We gather details, explain what documents may be needed and begin planning immediately.
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Step 2 – Legal and Consular Documentation
We contact the relevant consulates or embassies, obtain necessary permissions, and ensure paperwork meets foreign requirements.
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Step 3 – Preparation and Certification
We can arrange embalming, sealing of the coffin, and death certificates suitable for international travel.
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Step 4 – Booking Flights and Transport
We liaise with airlines, book flight transfers and manage airport procedures.
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Step 5 – Safe Transfer Overseas
We ensure customs procedures are completed correctly and handover is arranged with trusted funeral partners abroad.
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Step 6 – Continued Support
Once in the destination country, we stay available to support you and maintain contact with overseas providers if needed.
Every stage is handled by professionals who understand both the emotional aspect and the legal requirements.
What Documents Are Normally Required?
Each country has its own rules, but typically the following may be required:
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Passport of the deceased
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Death certificate
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Medical or coroner’s certificate
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Embalming certificate (if required)
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“Out of England” form or local authority release
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Consular paperwork
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Flight booking paperwork and airway bill
We will liaise with embassies and consulates to confirm exact requirements before proceeding.
Cultural and Religious Considerations
Many cultures and faiths have specific funeral requirements. We will work closely with you to respect all relevant customs. This may include:
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Repatriation within a short timeframe
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Ritual washing
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Clothing or shrouding
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Directional burial customs
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Instructions related to the coffin or container
Please let us know any requirements — we will guide you through what can be arranged and how quickly.
Timeline — What to Expect
Timing depends on circumstances, documentation and destination country. As a guide:
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Day 1–2 – First contact & coordination
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Day 2–5 – Consular liaison & permissions
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Day 5–10 – Preparation & travel arrangements
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Day 7–14 – International transfer & overseas coordination
We will keep you informed at every stage and provide realistic timeframes once documentation is confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ashes be repatriated instead of the body?
Yes. Ashes repatriation is often simpler and quicker. We handle the process with equal care.
Can we have a UK service before repatriation?
Can I travel with my loved one?
How are customs managed overseas?
Our Commitment
Repatriating someone overseas is a deep act of love and respect. We understand the emotional weight and the practical demands — and we will support you every step of the way.
Our promise is simple:
We listen.
We explain.
We take care — until your loved one is safely home.
Contact Us
24 Hours a Day Call: 020 8818 7725
Or contact us online for advice, assistance or a quotation. When you need someone to guide you — we listen, we help, we take care.