If you’re facing the overwhelming task of transporting a loved one’s mortal remains from India to another country, let VMEDO shoulder the burden for you with care, dignity, and professionalism. We specialize in end-to-end international dead body transportation, handling everything from embalming and documentation to airline booking and embassy clearances. With 24×7 support, experienced coordinators, and complete transparency, VMEDO ensures a smooth, respectful repatriation process during one of life’s most difficult moments. Trust VMEDO to bring your loved one home—no matter the distance. Call us anytime at +91-9343-180-180 or visit www.vmedo.com for immediate assistance
What Is International Dead Body Transportation?
International dead body transportation refers to the transfer of human remains (mortal remains) from one country to another via air cargo. In India, this process is regulated by various government departments, including:
- Local police authorities
- State health departments
- The Airport Health Organization (APHO)
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
- Embassies and consulates of the destination country
When and Why Is International Repatriation Required?
Some of the most common scenarios that require international repatriation of mortal remains include:
- Death of an Indian citizen living abroad who passed away while visiting India
- Foreign nationals who die during their stay in India
- Indian expatriates whose families wish to perform final rites in their home country
- Individuals whose remains need to be buried or cremated as per religious or cultural traditions
Step-by-Step Procedure for Dead Body Transportation from India to Another Country
Step 1: Obtain Death Certificate
The first and foremost step is to obtain a death certificate from the local municipal authority or hospital. This certificate is a legal document that confirms the death and must include the cause of death.
Documents needed:
- Medical cause of death from the hospital
- Identification documents of the deceased
- Identification of next of kin
Step 2: Police Clearance & No Objection Certificate (NOC)
In case of unnatural or sudden death (accident, suicide, etc.), an FIR and postmortem report are mandatory. The local police station will issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) after investigation.
In natural deaths, a police NOC may still be required depending on the jurisdiction.
Step 3: Embalming the Body
Before transporting the body internationally, embalming is mandatory to preserve the body and avoid decomposition. The embalming should be done by a certified mortuary and documented.
Post-embalming requirements:
- Embalming certificate
- Body sealed in a leak-proof zinc-lined coffin
- Coffin certificate confirming it is sealed and fit for transportation
Step 4: Clearance from Airport Health Organization (APHO)
The APHO, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, inspects and verifies the embalming and coffin sealing. They issue a “Clearance for Transport of Human Remains”, which is a critical document required before approaching the airline.
Step 5: NOC from the Indian Embassy (if required)
In cases where a foreign national is being repatriated, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their country’s Embassy or Consulate in India is required. For Indian nationals being sent abroad, the destination country’s embassy may need to issue a NOC or approval for entry.
Step 6: Clearance from the Local Municipal Corporation
A Transit Permit from the municipal corporation (where the death occurred) is also necessary. This acts as permission to transport the body across state or international borders.
Step 7: Booking Air Cargo Services
Only select airlines allow transportation of human remains. The body, packed in a certified coffin and accompanied by all documents, is shipped via air cargo to the destination airport.
You will need to:
- Book air cargo with the airline’s cargo division
- Provide them with the coffin dimensions and weight
- Submit all required documentation
- Pay air freight charges (based on weight and destination)
Step 8: Coordination with the Receiving Country
Ensure that all documents are pre-approved by the receiving country’s embassy or consulate. In some cases, families or funeral agencies at the destination must present import permits or receive clearance for burial/cremation.
List of Documents Required for International Dead Body Repatriation from India
| Document | Issued By |
| Death Certificate | Local Hospital or Municipal Authority |
| Embalming Certificate | Authorized Mortuary |
| Coffin Certificate | Funeral Home or Coffin Sealing Authority |
| Police NOC | Local Police Station |
| APHO Clearance | Airport Health Organization |
| Transit Permit | Municipal Corporation |
| Passport of the Deceased (Cancelled) | Immigration Authority |
| Consular NOC | Embassy/Consulate of Receiving Country |
| Airway Bill & Booking Details | Airline Cargo Division |
| Authorization Letter from Next of Kin | Family Member or Legal Representative |
Key Government Bodies Involved
- Airport Health Organization (APHO) – Issues final health clearance.
- Municipal Authorities – For issuing the death certificate and transit permit.
- Police Department – Investigates and clears any legal hurdles.
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) – Assists through Indian consulates abroad.
- Embassies/Consulates – Provide the necessary documentation for repatriation.
- Airlines – Responsible for cargo booking and safe transportation.
Important Guidelines & Rules to Follow
- Embalming must be completed before sealing the coffin.
- The coffin must be hermetically sealed with a zinc lining.
- All documents must be in English and notarized if needed.
- Some countries may require translation of documents.
- The deceased’s passport must be officially canceled before transportation.
- Some destinations require the presence of a funeral director at both ends.
Airlines That Allow Dead Body Transportation
Some of the major international airlines that allow repatriation of human remains include:
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Lufthansa
- Air India
- British Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Etihad Airways
- Turkish Airlines
Note: Each airline has its own procedures, packaging standards, and cargo rates. Confirm in advance.
Costs Involved in International Dead Body Transport
The cost of transporting a body internationally depends on multiple factors:
| Cost Component | Approximate Cost |
| Embalming and Coffin | ₹15,000 – ₹40,000 |
| Documentation and NOC Charges | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Cargo Booking (Air Freight) | ₹80,000 – ₹2,50,000+ (based on destination) |
| Ambulance Service to Airport | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
How VMEDO Helps in International Dead Body Transportation
At VMEDO, we offer end-to-end support in transporting mortal remains/dead body from India to any international destination with utmost care and respect. Our services include:
24×7 Coordination
We are available around the clock to assist grieving families and guide them through the entire process.
Documentation Support
We help families obtain all essential documents such as death certificates, embalming and coffin certificates, NOCs, and APHO clearances.
Ambulance & Mortuary Arrangements
VMEDO arranges certified mortuaries for embalming and ambulances for hospital/home-to-airport transport.
Airline Coordination
We manage bookings and documentation with major international airlines for smooth air cargo dispatch.
International Liaison
We coordinate with the receiving country’s embassy, consulate, and funeral homes as required.
Transparent Pricing
All our charges are upfront, and there are no hidden costs.
