Cremation and ashes transport

Cremation in Belize and bringing ashes home

For some families, arranging cremation locally and carrying ashes home is the right choice, and it can be quicker than full repatriation. This page sets out what Belize requires, and what to check before you decide.

Send an enquiry Full repatriation guide for Belize

Cremation in Belize

Can you cremate someone in Belize?

Cremation arrangements in Belize depend on local facilities and on whether an investigation is open. Contact us and we will confirm the current position before you make any decision.

Weighing cremation abroad against bringing your loved one home intact? How families decide between the two.

Documentation language

English. English is the sole official language of Belize and the only Central American nation with English as the official language. Documentation is in English. No translation required.

Airline guidance

Can you carry ashes on the flight home?

Routing out of Belize: Belize City (BZE) via Miami (American Airlines) to London; Belize City (BZE) via Houston (United) to London; Belize City (BZE) via Dallas (American Airlines) to London

Departure airports: Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE), Belize City

Carriers serving the UK: American Airlines (via Miami); United Airlines (via Houston); Delta (via Atlanta)

Airline rules that apply on any route.

What affects the cost from Belize

We do not publish a figure, because it turns on the specifics of the case. For Belize the things that move it are:

Distance from where the death happened to the nearest crematorium
Whether an investigation must conclude before release
Translation, since documentation is in English
Routing home. Belize City (BZE) via Miami (American Airlines) to London; Belize City (BZE) via Houston (United) to London; Belize City (BZE) via Dallas (American Airlines) to London
Whether you carry the ashes yourself or need them shipped

Considering full repatriation instead?

Some families decide they want their loved one brought home intact. The full Belize guide sets out that process.

Full repatriation guide for Belize

First steps guide

What to do if someone dies in Belize

The step-by-step first response guide covers the first 24 hours in Belize.

Official lists for Belize

Published by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for British nationals. We are not connected to the firms listed.

Lawyers, where an estate or an investigation needs local legal advice

Sources: FCDO: death abroad · FCDO travel advice · Repatriation from Belize

Talk to us about cremation in Belize

We can advise on whether cremation abroad is the right choice for your family. Tell us what has happened and we will take it from there.