Repatriation from Australia to Georgia

In a straightforward case, repatriation from Australia to Georgia takes 2-4 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 10-14 days. Complex cases involving criminal investigation or remote locations can take 4-8 weeks.

The core documents are: death certificate (state or territory Births, Deaths and Marriages registry), embalming certificate, freedom from infection certificate, passport of the deceased, and all required export permits. Death certificates are issued in English. No translation is required for English-speaking destinations. Certified translation may be required for non-English-speaking destinations. Source: FCDO Travel Advice Australia 2025.

The Canberra-based British embassy or high commission can register the death with UK authorities, provide a list of local funeral directors, and advise on documentation. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. FCDO 24-hour emergency line: +44 (0)20 7008 5000.

The Georgian funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal at Tbilisi (TBS) or Batumi (BUS). Death is registered with the Public Service Development Agency (PSDA) through its Justice Houses (Iusticiis Sakhli). Death certificates are issued in Georgian, which uses the Mkhedruli (Georgian) script. Georgia is a Hague Apostille Convention member since 2007. Certified translation of all foreign-language documentation into Georgian is required. All documentation from Australia must be in order before the body is released for the funeral.

Yes. Cremation in Australia is an option in most cases, though local authorities must release the body before cremation can take place. You will need the death certificate, cremation certificate, and an export permit for the ashes. Ashes are simpler to transport than a body and carry lower cargo costs. Ask our team for specific guidance on your case.

Georgia is a Hague Apostille member since 2007. However, the Georgian civil registry (PSDA Justice Houses) works exclusively in Georgian, which uses the Mkhedruli (Georgian) script. All documentation from Australia requires certified translation into Georgian before it is accepted. Your repatriation specialist will arrange this translation as part of the documentation process. Hague Apostille stamping applies to origin documents, but Georgian translation remains a firm requirement.