Losing a loved one is a tough ordeal in itself. When death occurs outside your home country, another form of complexity is added, both legal and emotional. Whether you're anticipating having to deal with this kind of situation or want to spare yourself the worry when you travel in the future, it's always wise to find out about the procedures surrounding a death outside your home country.

In this article, you will find out in detail about the process of repatriating a body to Quebec in case of death outside the country. You will also find important points to consider when traveling outside your home country as well as tips on how to prepare for any eventuality.

What is involved in repatriating a body?

Repatriation of a body refers to all the steps involved in transporting a deceased person to his or her country of origin. This process ensures that the body is returned to its loved ones under the best possible conditions.

Repatriation is a complex process, both logistically and administratively. That's why we recommend that you consult a Quebec funeral services provider to guide you through the steps involved in repatriating a body.

The process of repatriating the deceased requires expertise that we have here at the Aeterna Complex. By dealing with our team, you can rest assured that your loved one will be treated with respect and dignity from beginning to end.

The repatriation process after a death outside the country

How does the repatriation process work when someone dies outside his or her country of origin?

 

Obtaining administrative documents

The process of repatriating a body begins by requesting the necessary documents from the appropriate local authorities. These documents generally include:

 

• Passport or identity (ID) card. These documents serve to identify the deceased.
• Death certificate. This is the official document confirming the death of the person to be repatriated.
• Medical certificate of transport. This certificate, signed by a doctor, attests that the body can be transported without any risk to public health.
• Legal authorizations. Some countries require specific authorizations for the repatriation of a body.

 

Preparing the body of the deceased

Once all administrative formalities have been undertaken with the authorities of the country visited and the country of origin, the body is taken in charge by the professionals of a local funeral provider. The body will be treated and preserved in accordance with international standards. This step is essential to ensure that the body can be transported without endangering public safety.

 

Transporting the body to the country of origin

When a person dies while traveling, his or her body will have to be transported to Quebec so that he or she can be laid to rest in the home country. Depending on where the death occurred, transportation may require international flights or even ground transfers between airports.

In such cases, the team at the Aeterna Complex works closely with the appropriate airlines and transportation agencies to ensure that the process is carried out efficiently and respectfully.

 

Completing Customs and Administrative formalities

Upon arrival in the home country, procedures will need to be completed with the Border Services Agency to allow the deceased's body to cross the border. Our team can take care of all the necessary formalities, including obtaining transport authorizations and death certificates.

 

Planning a celebration of life

Once the body of the deceased has been repatriated to his or her country of origin, the last good-byes can finally take place. Whatever your beliefs or customs, our advisors can help you organize a ceremony that is a true reflection of your loved one.

 

How to prepare well for a trip outside your home country?

Now that you have a better understanding of the complexities involved in repatriating a body in case of death while traveling outside your home country, you will definitely want to know how you can prepare for such a possibility.

When traveling outside your home country, always carry with you the contact details of the Canadian embassy or consulate in the country you are visiting. In case of an emergency, these organizations will be able to provide assistance and practical advice.

Before you leave on your trip, discuss your repatriation wishes with your loved ones. Make sure they have the information they will require to take the right decisions in case of need.

The procedures that follow a death outside your home country are both complex and costly. That's why we advise you to take out repatriation insurance, so that you can travel without worrying either yourself or your loved ones.

 

Travel with peace of mind by taking out repatriation insurance

Our repatriation insurance lets you travel with peace of mind, whether across the country or around the world.

When you purchase repatriation insurance from the Aeterna Complex, you benefit from complete coverage of repatriation costs in the event of death outside your home country. What's more, our dedicated team is on hand at all times to provide you with personalized support in case of an emergency, wherever you are in the world.