Repatriation from France to Nauru

In a straightforward case, repatriation from France to Nauru 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. Source: FCDO Travel Advice France 2025.

The Paris-based British embassy or high commission can register the death with UK authorities, provide a list of local funeral directors, and advise on documentation. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. FCDO 24-hour emergency line: +44 (0)20 7008 5000.

The funeral director in Nauru takes custody at the cargo terminal at Nauru International Airport (INU). Nauru Airlines is the only carrier serving the island, and all international routing for a repatriation case runs via Brisbane, Australia. Death registration goes through Nauru's civil registration office, with the Nauru Police Force investigating non-natural deaths. Nauru is not a Hague Apostille Convention member; documents require standard legalisation. Mortuary and embalming capacity on the island is very limited; complex cases have historically been referred to Australia or Fiji. Cremation is not available; full body repatriation via Brisbane is required. 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.

Nauru International Airport is served only by Nauru Airlines, and flights to Brisbane run just a few times a week with limited cargo space. Every repatriation case from Nauru depends on securing space on one of those services, since there is no alternative carrier and no other viable international gateway. The island itself is tiny, just 21 square kilometres, so once cargo space is confirmed the on-island logistics move quickly.