An international repatriation usually takes between three and twelve days. The process is similar for every destination country; what differs are the consulates' requirements and the flight connections. You do not have to take any of these steps yourself — we set them out here so that you understand the process.

The stages

From collection to handover

1

Day 1 — First conversation and collection

You call. We establish the destination country, the faith, the timeframe and any particular wishes. Within a few hours we collect the deceased and bring them to our premises.

1–2

Days 1–2 — Official notifications

Notification of the death to the municipality, issue of the death certificate, application for the repatriation permit.

2–3

Days 2–3 — Care and placing in the coffin

Hygienic care, dressing and placing in the coffin — in the family's presence if they wish. The zinc coffin is sealed and the seal officially confirmed.

2–5

Days 2–5 — Consulate and legalisation

We submit the file to the destination country's consulate, which issues the laissez-passer or legalises the Swiss documents. This step usually determines the overall duration.

4–7

Days 4–7 — Flight booking and customs

Booking the air freight, preparing the freight papers, customs clearance. Relatives who wish to travel are booked onto the same flight.

5–10

Days 5–10 — Arrival and handover

At the destination airport the partner funeral home or the family takes over. We stay in contact until the handover is confirmed and report the completion to you.

When faith calls for speed

In Islam and Judaism the burial should take place as quickly as possible. Tell us in the first conversation and we will prioritise the consular appointments and look for the earliest available flight. In favourable cases a repatriation within 48 to 72 hours is possible.

The process, step by step