Research shows that the UK has increased 60% in booking foreign holidays in the last 12 months. This is the highest since a survey conducted in 2011. We all enjoy looking forward to the prospect of a holiday, with fun, laughter and world experiences. But …………… what happens if someone dies abroad?
If your spouse, civil partner, family member or a friend dies abroad? Would you know what to do and how the process works?
In the first instance you would need to contact the nearest British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate, they will be able to assist in arrangements or provide you with the advice and help. If you are on a package holiday then the Tour Guide or Tour Operators will give assistance in contacting the correct authorities.
You must register the Death in the country where the person died. The British Consul can help you with this. You will then need to register the Death with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in addition. You can obtain further detailed information https://www.gov.uk/register-a-death by completing an on-line application.
It is important to check whether your loved one had taken out travel insurance before you begin the repatriation process. Most Travel Insurance Policies include repatriation insurance, but you will need to check the Policy to see if they assist with the fees and other expenses involved.
If you want to arrange and hold a funeral in the UK, then your loved one will need to be repatriated. In order to do this, you will need:
- Death Certificate from the County where the death happened;
- Permission to deport your loved one from the country;
- A Certificate for Embalming;
- Death Certificate issued in a language other than English, will need to be professionally translated to be accepted by the Registrar of Birth Deaths and Marriages in the UK. Without a full translated death certificate, you will be unable to arrange for your loved one to be buried or cremated in the UK.
- Upon return to the UK a Coroner may be in contact to examine your loved one. This is common procedure when a death happens unexpectedly. The Coroner would need to verify the cause of death.
- You will be asked to submit the translated death certificate to the registry office closest to where you plan to have the funeral. Thereafter, they will be able to issue you a certificate which then allows a burial to take place. If you wish for a Cremation, you will need a Home Office Cremation Order. The Crematorium can assist with the paperwork that you need to submit.
If Fisher Jones Greenwood can assist you in your future planning or drafting of your Will, then please do not hesitate to contact us on 01206 700113 or email [email protected].
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