What Happens When You Die In Another Country?
Posted by: Erin Ward in Funeral Advice | July 12, 2021
Each year an estimated 6000 Americans die overseas while travelling. It is a difficult situation to be in and one that many people are unprepared for. Losing a loved one suddenly can be both traumatic and stressful. Repatriation services is the process of transporting the body of the deceased home.
With repatriation services you need to act fast. In order to bring your loved one home there is a vast amount of paperwork that you need to complete and file quickly. Each country has different laws and requirements that affect the repatriation process.
Initially, the process begins when the local embassy in that country notifies the State Department. From there the next of kin will be notified and must decide how the remains will be cared for. The three options available are: having the remains embalmed and returned home for burial, have the remains cremated and returned home, or have the body buried locally abroad.
Once the family has decided upon how the remains should be cared for, a Next-of-Kin Affidavit and a signed Letter of Instruction must be filed. It is important to remember that there are costs associated with repatriation services that the family is responsible for covering. Unfortunately, the Federal Government does not offer grants or funds to assist with the cost. However, crowdfunding is a tactic that has been used successfully to assist with the costs when families have been unable to cover them.
An important thing to remember is that the process could be delayed if your loved one is a victim of a crime. In this circumstance the local police will conduct an investigation and an autopsy which could delay the process. This can affect which repatriation options are available and limit the family’s choices.
Understanding Repatriation Service Options
Preparation And Return Of Embalmed Remains
If a family chooses to have the remains embalmed and returned home, the work will be completed by a local funeral home in the country of death. This option carries the greatest costs to bring the remains home. It is also not recommended to hold a viewing when the body is returned as embalming in foreign countries is not always up to US standards.
Cremation And Return Of Remains
Cremation is usually less expensive than having the remains embalmed and returned home. In many cases, this is the choice families make to bring their loved one home. While cremation is available in most countries, it may be difficult if the country is predominately Catholic or Muslim. In these countries, cremation facilities may be few and far between and usually charge a higher rate.
Local Burial
This option is typically the cheapest option but the least popular among families. Burying a loved one in another country can be difficult decision but may be the most appropriate given the situation. If a family selects this option, the local embassy will coordinate with local funeral homes to give the family a selection of quotes. An employee from the local embassy will also be present at the burial to represent the family.
36 Comments
Jenny Dobson
November 11
Liverpool here! WildRobin Casino is fully UKGC licensed and completely reliable. Deposits are instant, and their live games feature professional British dealers. What I love is how they balance excitement with responsible gaming features. It's become my go-to escape after work, knowing everything is secure!
Neil Patel
September 29
This was a very eye-opening read. Most of us never think about what happens if someone passes away while traveling abroad, and the process of repatriation sounds both stressful and costly. The explanation of embalming, cremation, and local burial options really helped me understand the choices families face during such a difficult time. It also makes me realize how important it is to plan ahead for unexpected situations, just like we do when looking for ways to save on travel with a Coupon Code. Preparation, whether financial or emotional, can really make a difference in hard times.
Patrick
September 26
Cremation is usually less expensive than having the remains embalmed and returned home. In many 1deposit cases, this is the choice families make to bring their loved one home. While cremation is available in most countries
gordonchris275
September 4
Thanks for this valuable information for all. Bond Concrete Contractors Albany
Zerene Clausy
August 20
Everyone here keeps telling me how great this blog is supposed to be but I don't see any of the fairy dust. Greenacre Preschool
Jenny Rose
August 20
Even my partner thinks you write serious stuff. Commercial painting Rockdale
duncanjosie918
August 20
They keep me reading till the end (not an easy feat). Bore water pump services in Byron Bay
Robie Brandy
August 20
Your writing style and chosen topics are interesting. NDIS registered providers in Fairfield
mathewsarah1109
August 20
I just shared this post to my account. NDIS registered providers in Greystanes
sh4k3
July 31
solsunusa
Plants and animals also need water to survive. Water is important for farming, too.
Christopher Gordon
July 23
So thanks for sharing the information. Aspen Landscaping Staten Island
Christopher Gordon
July 23
I think we need to bring more ideas for this purpose. Mix Concrete Contractors Staten Island
himlakurzo
July 1
Interesting read! If someone dies abroad, it’s a complex process involving local laws, embassy steps, and repatriation costs. Travelers using services like st maarten boat charters should ensure proper travel insurance—especially for emergencies far from home. Always be prepared, even while exploring paradise.
himlakurzo
May 21
Dying abroad is complicated—paperwork, repatriation, and costs pile up fast. That’s why even last-minute trips with بلیط لحظه آخری need solid planning. No one expects it, but understanding the process matters. Great post for shedding light on this!
memozi liza
May 15
During my breaks, I often play run 3. You can push yourself and learn something new in a short amount of time while having fun.
Jackd
May 11
This article brings much-needed awareness to the emotional and logistical challenges of repatriation. It's heartbreaking to think about losing a loved one abroad, and the steps involved in bringing them home can be overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. The detailed breakdown of options and procedures is incredibly helpful for families who may not know where to start. It's also eye-opening to learn that there’s little to no financial support from the government. In such heavy moments, even a short distraction can be helpful—for example, playing a quick game like Electron Dash can offer a small mental break when things feel too intense. Thank you for sharing this important information.
Jackd
May 11
This article is incredibly informative and sheds light on a topic that many of us rarely think about until faced with it. The process of repatriation is clearly complex, emotionally overwhelming, and filled with legal and logistical hurdles. It's important for families to be aware of their options—whether it's embalming, cremation, or local burial—and to understand the time-sensitive nature of the paperwork involved. I appreciate how the article also highlights the financial challenges and the reality that government assistance is not available. In such difficult times, even a small break can help ease stress—sites like Unblocked Games 76 offer a simple way to take your mind off things, even for just a few minutes. Thanks for sharing this valuable information.
Ricko
April 14
Reading this brought up things most of us never really think about until we have to. Handling a death abroad is overwhelming enough, so having clarity and support is everything. I’ve had to deal with complex travel plans in tough moments, and using a private transfer really helped take some pressure off. It was reliable, discreet, and gave me the space to focus on what mattered. When emotions are already running high, small comforts like that make a huge difference.