Cremation and ashes transport

Cremation in Kyrgyzstan 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 Kyrgyzstan requires, and what to check before you decide.

Send an enquiry Full repatriation guide for Kyrgyzstan

Cremation in Kyrgyzstan

Can you cremate someone in Kyrgyzstan?

Cremation arrangements in Kyrgyzstan 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, Bishkek

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: FRU (Manas International Airport, Bishkek)

Carriers serving the UK: Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul Ataturk); flydubai (via Dubai International); Air Manas (domestic)

Airline rules that apply on any route.

What affects the cost from Kyrgyzstan

We do not publish a figure, because it turns on the specifics of the case.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

Distance from where the death happened to the nearest crematorium
Whether Republican Centre of Forensic Medical Examination, Bishkek has to release the case first
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 Kyrgyzstan guide sets out that process.

Full repatriation guide for Kyrgyzstan

First steps guide

What to do if someone dies in Kyrgyzstan

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

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

Talk to us about cremation in Kyrgyzstan

We deal with Republican Centre of Forensic Medical Examination, Bishkek and the local funeral directors directly. Tell us what has happened and we will take it from there.