Repatriation from Greece to Ireland

In a straightforward mainland case, repatriation from Greece to Ireland takes 8-12 days. Most cases take 10-21 days once translation and documentation time is factored in. Island deaths add at least 1-4 days. Complex cases involving a post-mortem or prosecutor investigation can take 4-12 weeks.

Deaths on any Greek island require an internal transfer to the mainland, usually Athens, before international repatriation can proceed. This adds approximately 1-4 days and extra cost. Contact a specialist on the day of death.

The core documents are: lixiarxiki praxi thanatou (Greek death certificate), certified English translation, prosecutor authorisation for release, embalming certificate, freedom from infection certificate, and passport of the deceased.

The Irish Embassy in Athens can register the death with Irish authorities, provide a list of local funeral directors, and advise on documentation. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Department of Foreign Affairs emergency line: +353 1 408 2000.

The Irish funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal. All Greek documentation must be in certified English translation. The Coroner is involved only where the death abroad was unnatural, and may then order a post-mortem. Straightforward cases proceed to funeral arrangements without delay.

Yes. Cremation in Greece is available but limited as Greek Orthodox tradition favours burial. Bringing ashes home to Ireland is simpler and less costly than full body repatriation.