Repatriation from Australia to Ireland

In a straightforward case, repatriation from Australia to Ireland takes 10-21 days. The fastest cases complete in 10-14 days when documentation is issued promptly. Complex cases involving a post-mortem, investigation, or remote location can take 4-8 weeks or longer.

The core documents are: Australian death certificate (state-issued), Embalming certificate, Freedom from infection certificate, Passport of deceased (or copy), Export permit for human remains. Your repatriation coordinator handles obtaining these on your behalf.

The British High Commission in Australia 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.

Notify a UK repatriation specialist and the FCDO emergency line (+44 (0)20 7008 5000) on the day of death. Do not instruct a local funeral director independently before engaging a UK specialist, as this can complicate documentation.

The Irish funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal. All foreign documentation must be in certified English. The Coroner for the district is notified. Straightforward cases proceed to funeral arrangements without delay.

Yes. Cremation in Australia and bringing ashes home to Ireland is often simpler and less costly than full body repatriation. You will need the local death certificate, cremation certificate, and possibly an export permit.