Dead body transportation from India to other countries

Dead body transportation from India to other countries

When you are faced with the heartbreaking responsibility of transporting the mortal remains of your loved ones, VMEDO is here to support you with compassion, dignity, and professionalism. We specialize in end-to-end international dead body transportation, managing every critical step—from embalming and legal documentation to airline bookings and embassy clearances.

With 24×7 assistance, experienced coordinators, and transparent processes, VMEDO ensures a smooth, respectful, and stress-free repatriation during one of life’s most difficult moments. No matter the destination, we help bring your loved one home with care and dignity.

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Visit: www.vmedo.com

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, following strict medical, legal, and aviation regulations.

In India, this process is governed by multiple authorities, including:

  • Local Police Authorities

  • State Health Departments

  • Airport Health Organization (APHO)

  • Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)

  • Embassies and Consulates of the destination country

Each authority plays a vital role in ensuring lawful, hygienic, and dignified transport.

When and Why Is International Repatriation Required?

International repatriation is typically required in the following situations:

  • An Indian citizen living abroad passes away while visiting India

  • A foreign national dies during their stay in India

  • Families wish to conduct final rites in the deceased’s home country

  • Religious or cultural customs require burial or cremation in a specific location

Step-by-Step Procedure for Dead Body Transportation from India to Another Country

Step 1: Obtain the Death Certificate

The process begins with obtaining an official death certificate from the hospital or local municipal authority. This document legally confirms the death and states the cause.

Required documents may include:

  • Medical cause of death certificate

  • Identification proof of the deceased

  • Identification of next of kin

Step 2: Police Clearance & No Objection Certificate (NOC)

For unnatural or sudden deaths (accident, suicide, etc.), an FIR and post-mortem report are mandatory. Based on the investigation, the local police issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

Even in natural deaths, a police NOC may be required depending on local jurisdiction.

Step 3: Embalming the Body

International transportation requires mandatory embalming to prevent decomposition. This must be performed at a certified mortuary.

Post-embalming requirements include:

  • Embalming Certificate

  • Leak-proof, zinc-lined coffin

  • Coffin Certificate confirming proper sealing

Step 4: Clearance from Airport Health Organization (APHO)

APHO officials inspect the embalmed body and sealed coffin. Upon verification, they issue a Clearance for Transport of Human Remains, which is mandatory for airline cargo booking.

Step 5: Embassy or Consular NOC

  • For foreign nationals, a NOC from their country’s embassy or consulate in India is required.

  • For Indian nationals, the destination country’s embassy may issue an entry or transit approval.

Step 6: Municipal Transit Permit

A transit permit from the local municipal corporation (where the death occurred) authorizes cross-border transportation of the mortal remains.

Step 7: Air Cargo Booking

Only select airlines permit transportation of human remains. The sealed coffin is shipped as air cargo, not passenger luggage.

This step involves:

  • Booking cargo space with the airline

  • Submitting coffin dimensions and weight

  • Completing documentation

  • Paying air freight charges based on destination

Step 8: Coordination with the Receiving Country

Before dispatch, clearances from the destination country must be confirmed. Some countries require:

  • Import permits

  • Funeral home coordination

  • Customs or burial approvals

Documents Required for International Dead Body Repatriation from India

Document Issued By
Death Certificate Hospital / Municipal Authority
Embalming Certificate Authorized Mortuary
Coffin Certificate Funeral Home
Police NOC Local Police Station
APHO Clearance Airport Health Organization
Transit Permit Municipal Corporation
Cancelled Passport Immigration Authority
Consular NOC Destination Country Embassy
Airway Bill Airline Cargo Division
Authorization Letter Next of Kin

Key Government Bodies Involved

  • Airport Health Organization (APHO): Final health clearance

  • Municipal Authorities: Death certificate and transit permit

  • Police Department: Legal clearance

  • Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): Diplomatic coordination

  • Embassies & Consulates: Repatriation approvals

  • Airlines: Cargo transport and handling

Important Rules & Guidelines

  • Embalming must be completed before coffin sealing

  • Coffin must be zinc-lined and hermetically sealed

  • All documents must be in English (translations may be required)

  • The deceased’s passport must be officially canceled

  • Some countries require a funeral director at both ends

Airlines That Allow International Dead Body Transportation

Major airlines that support human remains repatriation include:

  • Air India

  • Emirates

  • Qatar Airways

  • Lufthansa

  • British Airways

  • Singapore Airlines

  • Etihad Airways

  • Turkish Airlines

Each airline follows its own cargo procedures and pricing.

Cost of International Dead Body Transportation from India

The overall cost depends on destination, airline, documentation, and urgency.

Cost Component Approximate Range
Embalming & Coffin ₹15,000 – ₹40,000
Documentation & NOCs ₹5,000 – ₹15,000
Air Cargo Charges ₹80,000 – ₹2,50,000+
Ambulance to Airport ₹3,000 – ₹10,000

How VMEDO Helps in International Dead Body Transportation

VMEDO provides complete end-to-end international repatriation support, including:

  • 24×7 emergency coordination

  • Complete documentation assistance

  • Certified embalming & coffin arrangements

  • Ambulance and mortuary services

  • Airline cargo booking & AWB coordination

  • Embassy, consulate & destination liaison

  • Transparent pricing with no hidden charges

Our experienced team ensures every step is handled with sensitivity, professionalism, and respect.

VMEDO Helpline: +91-9343-180000
Visit: www.vmedo.com

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