Cremation and ashes transport
Cremation in Kazakhstan 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 Kazakhstan requires, and what to check before you decide.
Cremation in Kazakhstan
Can you cremate someone in Kazakhstan?
Cremation arrangements in Kazakhstan 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.
Who must release the body
Republican Centre of Forensic Medical Examination, Astana; regional facilities in Almaty and other major cities
Treaty position
Not a signatory to the Strasbourg Agreement on the Transfer of Corpses
Airline guidance
Can you carry ashes on the flight home?
Departure airports: NQZ (Astana International Airport); ALA (Almaty International Airport)
Carriers serving the UK: Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul Ataturk); flydubai (via Dubai International); Emirates (via Dubai International); Air Astana (domestic and connecting)
What affects the cost from Kazakhstan
We do not publish a figure, because it turns on the specifics of the case. For Kazakhstan the things that move it are:
- Distance from where the death happened to the nearest crematorium
- Whether Republican Centre of Forensic Medical Examination, Astana; regional facilities in Almaty and other major cities has to release the case first
- 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 and funeral industry data
Considering full repatriation instead?
Some families decide they want their loved one brought home intact. The full Kazakhstan guide sets out that process.
Full repatriation guide for KazakhstanOfficial lists for Kazakhstan
Published by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for British nationals. We are not connected to the firms listed.
- Translators and interpreters, for certified translation of the death certificate and permits
Sources: FCDO: death abroad · FCDO travel advice · Repatriation from Kazakhstan
Talk to us about cremation in Kazakhstan
We deal with Republican Centre of Forensic Medical Examination, Astana; regional facilities in Almaty and other major cities and the local funeral directors directly. Tell us what has happened and we will take it from there.
Thank you. We have received your enquiry and will respond within one hour.