Repatriation from Australia to Sweden

In a straightforward case, repatriation from Australia to Sweden takes 2-4 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 10-14 days. Complex cases can take 4-8 weeks or longer.

Death must be registered with the state or territory Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM) registry promptly. Sudden, violent, or unexplained deaths (coroner takes jurisdiction) may add time before the body can be released.

The core documents are: death certificate with certified translation where required, embalming certificate, export permit, freedom from infection certificate, and passport of the deceased. Your repatriation coordinator handles obtaining these on your behalf.

The Sweden Embassy in Canberra can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the Sweden Embassy in Canberra as soon as possible after the death.

Sudden, violent, or unexplained deaths (coroner takes jurisdiction) may trigger a post-mortem examination. This adds time: the body cannot be released until the authorities authorise it.

The Swedish funeral director takes custody at the receiving airport cargo terminal. Skatteverket (the Swedish Tax Agency) handles civil registration. Foreign death certificates must be apostilled and accompanied by a certified Swedish translation where not already in Swedish. Socialstyrelsen regulates the handling of human remains and funeral operations. Sweden joined the Hague Apostille Convention in 1999. An embalming certificate and hermetically sealed coffin are required. The receiving funeral director coordinates with Skatteverket.

Cremation in Australia is widely available in all states and territories. You will need the local death certificate, cremation certificate, and relevant export documentation. Your repatriation specialist can advise on the current position.