Repatriation from Canada to Nepal

In a straightforward case, repatriation from Canada to Nepal takes 4-8 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 3-4 weeks. Complex cases can take 8-14 weeks or longer.

Death must be registered with the provincial civil registration authority promptly. Sudden, violent, or unexplained deaths (coroner or medical examiner) 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 Nepal Embassy in Ottawa can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the Nepal Embassy in Ottawa as soon as possible after the death.

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

The Nepali funeral director takes custody at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, Nepal's only international airport. The local Ward Office under the Ministry of Home Affairs handles death registration on receipt of overseas documentation. Nepal is not a Hague Apostille Convention member; full consular authentication through the Embassy of Nepal in the origin country is required. All foreign documents require certified Nepali translation for the Ward Office. A hermetically sealed zinc-lined coffin is required. The Embassy of Nepal coordinates the overseas death registration.

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