Funeral repatriation route guide
Repatriation from Democratic Republic of the Congo to France
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Repatriation from Democratic Republic of the Congo to France: what to expect
Congolese nationals from the DRC form a significant community in France, reflecting the French language connection between the two countries. This corridor handles cases where a France-based Congolese national has a family member die in the DRC and needs remains brought to France. Documentation is in French on both sides.
- Key document: Acte de deces (death certificate in French, requires certified English translation)
- Documentation takes 14-28 days. Appoint a specialist on day one.
- British Embassy in Kinshasa registers the death and advises. They cannot fund repatriation.
- The France Embassy in Kinshasa can advise. They cannot fund repatriation.
- All French-language documentation requires certified English translation for France acceptance.
In France
When the body arrives in France
The French funeral director (pompes funebres) takes custody at Charles de Gaulle (CDG, Paris) or another French international airport. The prefecture may require a permis d'inhumer (burial permit) or transport authorisation before burial or cremation can proceed. All foreign documents must carry a certified French translation. (French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, MAE, 2025.)
Consular support
French Embassy in Kinshasa can advise on repatriation documentation requirements for France. French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs (MAE) emergency assistance: +33 1 43 17 67 67 (24 hours). The French Embassy cannot pay for or arrange repatriation.
The process
What happens after a death in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Contact emergency services (112). Death must be registered with the Bureau d'etat civil (Civil Registry). The Police and Prosecutor takes jurisdiction when the death is: violent, suspicious, or unexplained deaths.
Step by step
Timeline: Democratic Republic of the Congo to France
Immediate steps after death
Day of death. Call +44 (0)20 7008 5000 (FCDO) or +33 1 43 17 67 67.
Family or travel insurer
Death registered. Acte de deces (death certificate in French, requires certified English translation) obtained.
Death must be registered with the Bureau d'etat civil (Civil Registry). Police and Prosecutor may be involved.
Local funeral director and registry
France Embassy in Kinshasa notified
Simultaneous with Step 1. Embassy provides a list of local funeral directors.
Family or repatriation specialist
Embalming and preparation.
After body released by authorities.
Licensed local funeral director
All export documentation and permits obtained.
Allow 14-28 days. Cannot begin until death certificate issued.
Local funeral director and authorities
Air cargo to France
Once all documentation complete. France cargo terminal
Repatriation specialist and airline cargo
France funeral director takes custody. receiving funeral director coordinates with local authorities.
Within 24 hours of arrival.
Receiving funeral director
Common questions
FAQs: repatriation from Democratic Republic of the Congo to France
In a straightforward case, repatriation from Democratic Republic of the Congo to France takes 3-6 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 2-4 weeks. Complex cases can take 2-4 months or longer.
The FCDO advises against all travel to many parts of the DRC. Contact the +33 1 43 17 67 67 immediately: +44 (0)20 7008 5000.
The core documents are: Acte de deces (certified English translation required), Police clearance (for unnatural deaths), Embalming certificate, Export permit, Freedom from infection certificate. Your repatriation coordinator handles obtaining these on your behalf.
The France Embassy in Kinshasa can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the France Embassy in Kinshasa as soon as possible after the death.
Violent, suspicious, or unexplained deaths A post-mortem adds time. The body cannot be released until the authorities authorise it.
The French funeral director takes custody at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or another French airport. The prefecture issues a permis d'inhumer before burial or cremation. All foreign documents require certified French translation. The receiving funeral director coordinates with local authorities.
Cremation is not widely available in the DRC. Full body repatriation is the standard approach.
Related guides
More repatriation guidance
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If your loved one has passed away in Democratic Republic of the Congo, please do not face this alone. Our team will guide you through every step of bringing them home.
Reviewed by the Repatriate Service editorial team. Information sourced from UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance, official embassy contacts, and professional repatriation experience. Updated June 2026.
Sources: FCDO gov.uk · Democratic Republic of the Congo repatriation guide · Frequently asked questions