What Happens If You Die Abroad?

When someone dies abroad, the situation can quickly become overwhelming for family and friends. From dealing with local authorities and arranging repatriation to understanding legal requirements, there are many important steps to navigate. In this guide, we explore what happens if you die abroad, with practical advice on how to manage the situation with care and ensure all necessary arrangements are made.

When an expat passes away in a foreign country, the local laws and regulations will play a critical role in determining the next steps. Each country has its own legal framework for handling death, which can vary widely from one location to another. These laws govern everything from the declaration of death to the management of the deceased’s estate.

Local authorities, such as the police, medical staff, and embassies, typically have a process they must follow when someone dies. They will confirm the cause of death, issue a death certificate, and notify the next of kin or legal representatives. In some countries, especially those with strict cultural or religious practices, additional procedures might need to be observed before the body can be moved or a funeral arranged.

It’s important to note that in many places, the local authorities will require the involvement of a local legal professional to guide families through the bureaucracy, which can often be complex and time-consuming. This could include obtaining permits for repatriation or completing paperwork related to the estate.

The first important document to obtain when someone dies abroad is the death certificate, which will be issued by local authorities after the death has been confirmed. This certificate will be needed for all subsequent procedures.

The process of obtaining a death certificate can vary depending on the country, but typically it requires confirmation from a doctor or coroner, who will determine the cause of death. In some countries, authorities might need to conduct a post-mortem examination before the certificate can be issued. The death certificate will generally be issued in the local language, so you might need a certified translation for official use in the UK or elsewhere.

In addition to the death certificate, other paperwork might be required. For example, if repatriation is planned, you’ll likely need a permit to transport the body, along with documents from the airline. If the deceased was an expat, their embassy or consulate will often be involved in assisting with the paperwork for repatriation and legal matters.

The first step in repatriation is ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is in order. This includes the death certificate, any permits for transporting the body, and potentially a certificate of embalming or a declaration of non-contagious disease if required by the destination country. Some countries might require additional paperwork, such as a certificate of the cause of death or an autopsy report, depending on local laws and circumstances surrounding the death.

Once the paperwork is complete, funeral homes or specialist repatriation companies can arrange the transportation. These companies will be experienced in handling the logistics of repatriation and will ensure the body is securely prepared for transport, as well as make all necessary arrangements with airlines, authorities, and customs officials. Typically, the body will be transported in a sealed coffin or casket which meets both the requirements of the local authorities and the destination country.

The cost of repatriation can vary widely depending on the country of death, the distance to be travelled, and the complexity of the case. You can check whether your expat health insurance or life insurance policy covers repatriation, as many policies offer this service.

If the family wishes to have the funeral in the deceased’s home country or another location, repatriation will be necessary, as discussed earlier. However, some families might choose to hold the funeral abroad, especially if the deceased had strong connections to their place of residence.

In many countries, funeral homes or local undertakers will be the first point of contact. These professionals will guide the family through the necessary steps, which could include securing permits for burial or cremation, arranging the transportation of the body to the funeral home, and preparing the body for the funeral. The requirements for embalming, preparation of the body, and burial or cremation vary by location, so it’s important to clarify these details early on.

Cultural and religious customs will also play a significant role in the funeral process. Some countries or regions will have specific rituals or ceremonies that must be followed, which could affect the timing and type of funeral service held. For example, certain cultures require a funeral to be held within a specific number of days after death, while others might have particular mourning practices or memorial services that should be respected.

It’s also worth considering the costs involved, as funeral expenses can vary significantly depending on the country. In some cases, expat life insurance or repatriation insurance may cover funeral expenses, but this should be confirmed with the relevant insurance provider in advance.

When an expat passes away abroad, managing their estate in a foreign country can be complicated, as each jurisdiction has its own laws surrounding inheritance, taxation, and the distribution of assets.

The first step is typically to identify the assets owned by the deceased in the foreign country, which could include property, bank accounts, investments, or business interests. These assets will need to be assessed and valued in accordance with local laws. If the deceased had a will, it would need to be assessed as valid under the local legal system. Some countries might require a will to be drawn up according to local customs, and a foreign will may need to be authenticated or translated to be recognised.

Local probate procedures are another key consideration. Probate is the legal process of administering the estate, which includes verifying the validity of the will, paying any outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining assets. In many countries, the probate process can be lengthy and complex, especially if the estate involves property or significant financial assets. It’s also important to be aware of any inheritance taxes or other local fees that may apply, as these can vary significantly from one country to another.

In many cases, it will be necessary to appoint a local executor or legal representative to manage the estate on behalf of the deceased’s family. This person will be responsible for ensuring that all legal and financial matters are handled according to the laws of the country in which the assets are located. If the deceased had assets in multiple countries, the family will need to navigate the legal systems of several jurisdictions, which can make the process even more complicated.

It might be possible to appoint an international law firm or estate planning expert with experience in managing estates across borders. These professionals can provide valuable guidance on the necessary legal steps and ensure that the deceased’s wishes are respected, regardless of where the assets are held.

If a loved one dies while abroad, it can be an overwhelming and distressing experience, especially for those who may be unfamiliar with the local legal and cultural practices. However, there are important steps that can be taken to manage the situation with care and ensure that all necessary actions are carried out in a timely and respectful manner.