Repatriation from Brazil to Ireland

In a straightforward case, repatriation from Brazil to Ireland takes 3-6 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 2-3 weeks. Complex cases involving prolonged IML investigation or death in a remote state can take 6-12 weeks.

The Instituto Medico Legal (IML) is Brazil's forensic medical service. All violent, sudden, suspicious, or unexplained deaths are referred to the IML. The body cannot be released until the IML examination is complete and the Ministerio Publico authorises release. This is standard procedure and cannot be bypassed.

The core documents are: certidao de obito with certified English translation, IML release document, embalming certificate, freedom from infection certificate, and passport of the deceased.

The Irish Embassy in Brasilia can register the death with Irish authorities, provide a list of local funeral directors, and advise on documentation. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Department of Foreign Affairs emergency line: +353 1 408 2000.

The Irish funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal. All Brazilian documentation must be in certified English. The Coroner is involved only where the death abroad was unnatural, and may then order a post-mortem. Straightforward cases proceed to funeral arrangements without delay.

Yes. Cremation in Brazil is an option, though the IML must still release the body before cremation can take place. You will need the certidao de obito, cremation certificate, and export permit.