Practical guidance
What to do if someone dies in Bhutan
This guide explains what happens after a death in Bhutan, who to contact, and how to arrange for your loved one to be brought home, to the UK, Ireland or any other country. Facts for British nationals come from FCDO and government sources. Every situation is different, and if you would like us to take over the arrangements, send us the details.
When Someone Dies in Bhutan: The First Steps
Call the FCDO immediately on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours). The British High Commission New Delhi (+91 11 2419 2100) handles consular matters for Bhutan on a non-resident basis.
Notify the tour operator at the same time. All foreign visitors to Bhutan are on registered tour packages with licensed Bhutanese guides. The tour operator has a legal and practical role in the immediate response and will liaise with local authorities.
The Legal Process
Death registration in Bhutan is handled by the Civil Registration and Census Authority (CRCA). The CRCA issues the official death certificate. Where death is not from natural causes, the Royal Bhutan Police must investigate and clear the case before the body can be released.
Documentation is primarily in Dzongkha with some English elements, and requires certified English translation.
Document Checklist
| Document | Issued By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Death certificate | Civil Registration and Census Authority (CRCA) | Dzongkha/English: translation required |
| Royal Bhutan Police clearance | Royal Bhutan Police (non-natural deaths) | |
| Embalming certificate | Local mortuary (where available) | |
| Export authorisation | Relevant authority | |
| Consular death registration | BHC New Delhi | Non-resident |
| Coroner permission (UK) | HM Coroner | Required in some circumstances |
Paro Airport
Paro International Airport (PBH) is the only international gateway. Capacity is severely limited: only Drukair and Bhutan Airlines operate there, with services to Delhi, Kolkata, Bangkok, and Kathmandu. Advance coordination with carriers for cargo is essential. Timelines typically run 14 to 42 days.
What to Do in the UK
Notify your travel insurer immediately, Bhutan travel insurance is typically part of a broader Asia or worldwide policy. Gather all tour operator documentation and travel documents.
For more information on the full repatriation process, read our complete guide to what happens when someone dies abroad.
Source: FCDO, Support for British Nationals Abroad, updated 2024. British High Commission New Delhi contact details correct as of May 2026.
First things first
What to do in the first 24 hours
The immediate period after a death abroad is disorienting. Here are the steps in the order they normally need to happen.
Contact local emergency services
Contact the embassy or consulate
Tell the embassy or consulate of your loved one's own country as soon as possible. It can register the death, give you a list of local funeral directors and explain what the local authorities will need.
British nationals, FCDO 24hr: +44 (0)20 7008 5000
Appoint a local funeral director
A local funeral director in Bhutan will take care of the body, arrange embalming, obtain the necessary documents, and coordinate with airlines. The embassy can recommend accredited directors. You can also contact a specialist UK repatriation company, who will coordinate with a local partner on your behalf.
Contact your travel insurer
If your loved one had travel insurance with repatriation cover, contact the insurer immediately. They will often have an emergency assistance line and may appoint their own funeral director. Many policies cover the full cost of repatriation, subject to the limit set out in the policy schedule.
Gather the required documents
Repatriation from Bhutan requires specific paperwork before a body can be transported. Your local funeral director will handle most of this.
What to expect
How long does it take?
Cost guide
What affects the cost?
Nobody publishes a reliable figure for Bhutan alone. Our cost page sets out the ranges repatriation firms publish, each named and dated. What you pay turns on the specifics of the case.
| Where the death happened | Distance to the departure airport, and any island or overland transfer, changes the freight arrangement |
| Whether a post-mortem is ordered | An investigation holds the release and adds mortuary time |
| Documentation required | Bhutan paperwork, translation, and any legalisation step |
| Coffin and preparation | Airline and destination rules dictate what is needed |
| Flight availability | Direct services cost less to arrange than multi-leg cargo routing |
| Insurance | Whether a policy covers repatriation, and up to what limit |
Send us the details and we will give you a figure for your case, with no obligation.
Full repatriation guide for Bhutan
Detailed information on the full repatriation process, embassy contacts, what affects the cost, cultural considerations, and more.
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If you need someone to take over the arrangements, tell us what has happened. We arrange repatriation from Bhutan to the UK, Ireland or any other country.
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Reviewed by the Repatriate Service editorial team. Information sourced from UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance, official embassy contacts, and professional repatriation experience. Facts last checked September 2026; page updated .
Sources: FCDO gov.uk · Repatriation from Bhutan · Frequently asked questions