Death is an inevitable event in our life here on earth. It can happen to anyone, anywhere, anytime. Some says that they prefer to die in their homeland but others, when struck by death, don’t have the choice but to die on where they are. People who are travelling or people who are working overseas may experience death abroad. The question is how do their remains go back to their homeland?
Repatriation of deceased body is the method wherein human remains are transferred from foreign country to its native country. Companies that offer international repatriation of remains help bereaving families in times of distress or loss to bring their loved one’s home. A team of experienced consultants can be contacted 24/7 to provide assistance and support.
Repatriation Costs
Most people who availed this type of service find it complicated and distressing. Moreover, repatriation cost is expensive and costs can be higher if the human remains is on a remote location. According to the survey, the most expensive repatriation destinations are found in China, South America and Japan. Transportation distance and cargo weight are the two factors to consider in determining repatriation costs.
One of the common questions that people in mind have when it comes to repatriation costs is that “does the embassy fund repatriation cost?” The answer is a big NO. Repatriation costs are shouldered by the family. However, travel insurance may help reduce the costs depending on the policy bought.
Repatriation Procedure
Another important thing that people ask is what is the procedure for international repatriation? The initial step is to contact the embassy, travel insurance broker and tour operator. The embassy also plays a vital role as they are more knowledgeable in the legality and other protocols involve. They also help in bridging the communication gap, tapping the appropriate authorities and contacting the family in order to collect important documents.
In addition, it is very important and is a requirement that the identity of the deceased is verified. Rules on who can identify vary from country to country. What is common is that the travelling companion or any person associated to the deceased during travel or work opportunity overseas can verify the identity of the deceased. In some cases, a family member will need to travel to the country where the person dies in order to verify the identity.
Further, once the identity of the deceased was verified. The family of the decease has the option of repatriating the body or burying or cremating the body to its current location. If it has been decided to repatriate the human remains, a funeral director must then be contacted in order to prepare the human remains for repatriation. In addition, the funeral director can also make flight arrangement and prepare appropriate documents such as death certificate.
Moreover, a coffin made for repatriation of human remains either by air or sea is required. As per standard, metal-lined coffin is required.
To sum it up, repatriation is not an easy task. It requires coordination with the country where the person dies and it requires an ample amount of money from the family of the deceased. Should you wished to repatriate the remains of your loved ones, it is very important to be aware of the procedures involved in order to ease the burden during grieving.
