Cremation and ashes transport

Cremation in Vietnam and bringing ashes home

Both practised. Burial traditional in rural areas. Cremation growing in cities. This page sets out what Vietnam requires, and what to check before you decide.

Send an enquiry Full repatriation guide for Vietnam

Cremation in Vietnam

Can you cremate someone in Vietnam?

Both practised. Burial traditional in rural areas. Cremation growing in cities.

Cremation available in major cities. Some families may wish for Buddhist cremation ceremony in Vietnam.

Religious context: Buddhist (~16% practising), Confucian/Taoist influence, Catholic (~7%), folk religion widespread

Local funeral timing: Traditionally 3-5 days mourning period before burial/cremation. Varies by family.

Ancestor worship is central to Vietnamese culture; White headbands worn by mourners; Incense burning standard; Funeral procession through streets common; Vietnamese families may be very involved in the process

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

Documentation language

Vietnamese

Airline guidance

Can you carry ashes on the flight home?

Airline rules that apply on any route.

What affects the cost from Vietnam

We do not publish a figure, because it turns on the specifics of the case. For Vietnam 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 Vietnamese
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 Vietnam guide sets out that process.

Full repatriation guide for Vietnam

First steps guide

What to do if someone dies in Vietnam

Local emergency number 113. The step-by-step first response guide covers the first 24 hours in Vietnam.

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

Talk to us about cremation in Vietnam

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.