Funeral repatriation route guide
Repatriation from Ghana to South Africa
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Repatriation from Ghana to South Africa: what to expect
Ghanaian nationals work in South Africa in professional and business roles. This corridor handles cases where a South Africa-based Ghanaian has a family member die in Ghana and needs remains brought to South Africa. Ghana's documentation process is well-mapped for the diaspora community.
- Key document: Ghanaian death certificate (Births and Deaths Registry, in English)
- Documentation takes 7-21 days. Police report required for unexpected deaths.
- South Africa Embassy in Accra can advise on documentation. They cannot fund repatriation.
In South Africa
When the body arrives in South Africa
The South African funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal, typically O.R. Tambo International (JNB, Johannesburg), Cape Town International (CPT), or King Shaka International (DUR, Durban). A permit from the South African Department of Home Affairs (Form DHA-1744) is required before burial or cremation. The provincial health authority issues any additional permits. (South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation, DIRCO, 2025.)
Consular support
South African Embassy or High Commission in Accra can advise on documentation requirements for repatriation to South Africa. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the nearest South African mission for assistance.
The process
What happens after a death in Ghana
Call the police (191 or 112) for unexpected deaths. A doctor must certify the death. Death registered with the Births and Deaths Registry of Ghana. Documentation is in English throughout. Kotoka International Airport in Accra is the main cargo departure point.
Step by step
Timeline: Ghana to South Africa
Immediate steps after death
Day of death. Contact the embassy or consulate of the person's own country.
Family or travel insurer
Death registered with Births and Deaths Registry of Ghana.
Documentation in English. Police report required for unexpected deaths.
Local funeral director and Births and Deaths Registry
Embassy or consulate notified
Simultaneous with Step 1. The embassy or consulate can provide a list of local funeral directors.
Family or repatriation specialist
Embalming and preparation
Embalming required for international repatriation.
Licensed local funeral director
Police report (if required) and all export permits obtained
Allow 7-21 days.
Local funeral director and authorities
Embassy or consulate notified
Once all documentation complete.
Repatriation specialist and airline cargo
South Africa funeral director takes custody. The receiving funeral director coordinates with local authorities.
Within 24 hours of arrival.
Receiving funeral director
Common questions
FAQs: repatriation from Ghana to South Africa
In a straightforward case, repatriation from Ghana to South Africa takes 2-4 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 10-14 days. Complex cases involving police investigation can take 4-8 weeks.
The core documents are: Ghanaian death certificate (Births and Deaths Registry), embalming certificate, freedom from infection certificate, police report (if required), and passport of the deceased. Documentation is in English throughout.
The South Africa Embassy in Accra can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the South Africa Embassy in Accra as soon as possible after the death.
The Births and Deaths Registry of Ghana is the official government body responsible for registering all deaths in Ghana. All deaths must be registered with the Registry before any funeral or repatriation process can begin. The Registry issues the official death certificate.
The South African funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal. Department of Home Affairs Form DHA-1744 is required before burial or cremation. The provincial health authority may issue additional permits. The receiving funeral director coordinates with the local registrar.
Yes. Cremation in Ghana and bringing the ashes home to South Africa is an option. You will need the death certificate, cremation certificate, and export permit.
Related guides
More repatriation guidance
We are here to help. Send us the details, any time
If your loved one has died in Ghana, please do not face this alone. Send us the details and we will explain what happens next and prepare a quote for bringing them home to South Africa.
Reviewed by the Repatriate Service editorial team. Information sourced from official government and embassy guidance and professional repatriation experience. Facts last checked September 2026; page updated .
Sources: Official guidance on a death in Ghana (gov.uk) · Ghana repatriation guide · Frequently asked questions