Repatriation from Ukraine: step by step
A clear guide to each stage of the process, from the first phone call through to your loved one's arrival home.
Bringing someone home to a particular country? Find the guide for your route or send us the details. We arrange repatriation to any country.
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Send us the detailsStep by step
The repatriation process from Ukraine
Each step must be completed in sequence. Your repatriation coordinator manages the process, but knowing what to expect reduces uncertainty.
Timeline
How long does the process take?
Best case
3 to 6 weeks
Natural death, no post-mortem, documentation issued quickly.
Typical case
6 to 12 weeks
Most repatriations from Ukraine fall within this range.
Complex case
Several months or longer
Post-mortem, inquest, criminal investigation, or remote location.
What can extend the timeline
- FCDO advises against all travel to Ukraine since February 2022: deaths involve atypical consular procedures
- Boryspil International Airport closed since February 2022: all cargo must transit overland via Poland or other EU land borders
- Ukrainian documentation (Cyrillic) requiring certified translation
- Active conflict zone conditions affecting access to bodies, administrative infrastructure, and transport logistics
Route guides
Repatriation routes from Ukraine
Each route guide covers the documentation, timeline and process for one corridor from Ukraine, written for the family at the receiving end.
Start the process today
Our team handles every step of repatriation from Ukraine. Send an enquiry and we will explain what happens next and prepare a quote for bringing your loved one home, to the UK, Ireland or any other country.
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 · Embassy contacts: Ukraine · Frequently asked questions