Repatriation of human remains

Cremation

An increasing number of people leave their home countries to travel or settle abroad, which increases the likelihood that the repatriation of their remains will be required in the event of an unexpected accident (death or fatality).

Repatriation procedures are quite confusing and complicated, requiring specialized equipment and knowledge; therefore, they are carried out by companies specializing in the transportation of human remains.

What is repatriation?

The term ‘repatriation’ (from Latin repatriatio) means ‘return to one’s homeland’. It may apply to the return of living, injured, or deceased people. Historically, the term has often been used in relation to prisoners of war and the return of those who died in wartime to their native country; however, it also applies to the return of civilians or their remains to their home country.

What steps are required for the repatriation of a deceased from abroad?

Repatriation of the deceased from abroad involves several steps required to return them to Lithuania.

The process begins when relatives wishing to bring their loved one back from abroad contact a repatriation company.

During the initial contact, the deceased’s personal details are collected, and it is clarified whether the person had life insurance (including repatriation coverage). If insurance is in place, the insurance company handles the repatriation process. If not, a repatriation agreement is signed, authorizing the company to act on behalf of the family.

Based on the information provided by the relatives – such as the deceased’s details, place of death, and available contacts of foreign institutions – the situation is assessed. Possible transport options, estimated costs, and time frames are discussed. A repatriation plan is then prepared, including whether the deceased will be transported in a coffin or an urn.

The company then contacts foreign authorities (such as hospitals, mortuaries, police, and others) to obtain the necessary sanitary documentation, permits from embassies and other institutions, and to arrange a specialized zinc-lined coffin or an urn for transportation.

If it is decided to transport the deceased by road, a specialized vehicle equipped with refrigeration is dispatched to the country where the deceased is located. If transport by air is chosen, safe and reliable arrangements are made for the coffin or urn.

Once the deceased or the urn has been returned, assistance can be provided in applying for state support for repatriation.

Support is also provided in collecting the required documentation, including proof of income, expense records, and other necessary documents.

Provided repatriation services

The deceased can be transported in a coffin or as ashes in an urn. Transportation may be carried out by specialized vehicle, ferry, plane, or a combination of these. Repatriation services also include arranging embalming or cremation, handling all necessary documentation in Lithuania and abroad, paying applicable fees to foreign authorities, and coordinating with relevant institutions.

Services, provided by us:

  • Repatriation of the deceased from abroad in a specialized equipment vehicle, a plane, or a ferry.
  • Arrangement of embalming services abroad.
  • Urn with ashes transportation from abroad: by car, plane.
  • Arrangement of cremation services abroad.
  • Management of documents in Lithuania and in foreign countries.
  • Preparation of documents on acquiring state support.

Repatriation services and assistance in bereavement support

During this tough time of loss, comprehensive repatriation services and support are provided. All organizational matters are handled, ensuring the safe and affordable return of your loved one’s body or ashes to Lithuania.

Highly qualified specialists provide detailed consultations 24/7. In the event of a loss, please contact us immediately. Regardless of where your loved one has passed away – whether in the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Russia, or Belarus – assistance is available.

The dignified and safe return of your loved one to Lithuania is ensured.