Cremation and ashes transport
Cremation in Bulgaria 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 Bulgaria requires, and what to check before you decide.
Cremation in Bulgaria
Can you cremate someone in Bulgaria?
Religious context: Eastern Orthodox Christianity
Weighing cremation abroad against bringing your loved one home intact? How families decide between the two.
Documentation language
Bulgarian
Airline guidance
Can you carry ashes on the flight home?
What Bulgaria requires: Bulgarian cremation certificate; Death certificate (translated); Certificate of freedom from contagious disease; Ashes in a sealed, clearly labelled container
What affects the cost from Bulgaria
We do not publish a figure, because it turns on the specifics of the case. For Bulgaria 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 Bulgarian
- Whether you carry the ashes yourself or need them shipped
Contact us with the details and we will give you a figure for your case. Source: FCDO guidance; IATA regulations
Considering full repatriation instead?
Some families decide they want their loved one brought home intact. The full Bulgaria guide sets out that process.
Full repatriation guide for BulgariaSources: FCDO: death abroad · FCDO travel advice · Repatriation from Bulgaria
Talk to us about cremation in Bulgaria
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.
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