Funeral repatriation route guide
Repatriation from Iraq to Germany
For families bringing someone home to Germany. Send the details any time and we will take it from there.
Quick answer
Repatriation from Iraq to Germany: what to expect
Iraqi nationals form a significant community in Germany. This corridor handles cases where a Germany-based Iraqi has a family member die in Iraq and needs remains brought to Germany. Documentation requires certified German translation from Arabic.
- Key document: Arabic death certificate from civil registration office (requires certified English translation)
- Documentation takes 14-28 days. Appoint a specialist on day one.
- Consular assistance in other parts of Iraq is severely limited.
- A consulate in Erbil covers the Kurdistan Region.
- Germany Embassy in Baghdad can advise on documentation. They cannot fund repatriation.
The process
What happens after a death in Iraq
Repatriation from Iraq begins at the local level: contacting the emergency services on 104 (police), then registering the death with the Civil registration office and obtaining a certified local death certificate, which usually takes 14-28 days. A death that is violent, suspicious or unexplained falls under the jurisdiction of the Police and judiciary, which may require a post-mortem first. With the paperwork complete, the body is embalmed, sealed in a zinc-lined coffin, and cleared for export before being flown to Germany as air cargo. A funeral director in Germany then takes custody. The full process most often takes 3-6 weeks.
Step by step
Timeline: Iraq to Germany
Immediate steps after death
Day of death. Contact the embassy or consulate of the person's own country (citizens of Germany: +49 30 5000 2000).
Family or travel insurer
Death registered. Arabic death certificate from civil registration office (requires certified English translation) obtained.
Death must be registered with the Civil registration office. Police and judiciary may be involved.
Local funeral director and registry
Germany Embassy in Baghdad 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 Germany
Once all documentation complete. Germany cargo terminal
Repatriation specialist and airline cargo
Germany funeral director takes custody. The receiving funeral director coordinates with local authorities.
Within 24 hours of arrival.
Receiving funeral director
In Germany
When the body arrives in Germany
The German funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal, typically Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC), or Berlin (BER). A Leichenpass (body transport passport) or equivalent laissez-passer must accompany the remains. The local Gesundheitsamt (public health authority) may inspect the remains on arrival. The receiving funeral director registers the death with the local Standesamt (civil registry) if required.
Consular support
German Embassy in Baghdad can advise on document requirements for repatriation to Germany. The German Embassy cannot pay for or arrange repatriation.
Common questions
FAQs: repatriation from Iraq to Germany
In a straightforward case, repatriation from Iraq to Germany takes 3-6 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 2-4 weeks. Complex cases can take 2-4 months or longer.
Consular assistance in other parts of Iraq is severely limited.
The core documents are: Arabic death certificate (certified English translation required), Police clearance, Exit permit from Iraqi authorities, Embalming certificate, Freedom from infection certificate. Your repatriation coordinator handles obtaining these on your behalf.
The Germany Embassy in Baghdad can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the Germany Embassy in Baghdad as soon as possible after the death.
Violent, suspicious, or unexplained deaths require a post-mortem, which adds time. The body cannot be released until the authorities authorise it.
The German funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal. A Leichenpass or laissez-passer must accompany the remains. The Gesundheitsamt may inspect the remains. The death is registered with the local Standesamt. All foreign documents must carry certified German translation where required.
Cremation is not permitted under Iraqi law. Full body repatriation is the only option.
Related guides
More repatriation guidance
We are here to help. Send us the details, any time
If your loved one has died in Iraq, 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 Germany.
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 Iraq (gov.uk) · Iraq repatriation guide · Frequently asked questions