Repatriation from France to Haiti

In a straightforward case, repatriation from France to Haiti takes 2-4 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 7-14 days. Complex cases involving criminal investigation or remote locations can take 4-8 weeks.

The core documents are: acte de deces (death certificate from the local mairie), embalming certificate, freedom from infection certificate, passport of the deceased, and all required export permits. The acte de deces is issued in French. Certified translation into the destination country's language is required for all non-French-speaking destinations.

The funeral director in Haiti takes custody after air cargo clears Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP), Port-au-Prince, though the airport has faced repeated flight suspensions linked to unrest. Death is registered with the local bureau d'etat civil (civil registry office); records are forwarded to the National Archives of Haiti. Haiti is not a Hague Apostille Convention member; documents require consular legalisation. The death certificate, the acte de deces, is issued in French. All documentation from France must be in order before the body is released for the funeral.

Yes. Cremation in France is an option in most cases, though local authorities must release the body before cremation can take place. You will need the death certificate, cremation certificate, and an export permit for the ashes. Ashes are simpler to transport than a body and carry lower cargo costs. Ask our team for specific guidance on your case.

Yes, significantly. In areas under armed group control, families have sometimes had to submit a signed statement of unavailability in place of a death certificate that could not safely be collected. Speak to a specialist early. Timelines here are far less predictable than in most other corridors on this site.