Funeral repatriation route guide
Repatriation from Iraq to Germany
For British families. 24/7 support, every step handled.
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.
- British Embassy in Baghdad registers the death and advises. They cannot fund repatriation.
- The FCDO advises against all travel to Iraq except the Kurdistan Region. 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
Contact emergency services (104 (police)). Death must be registered with the Civil registration office. The Police and judiciary takes jurisdiction when the death is: violent, suspicious, or unexplained deaths.
Step by step
Timeline: Iraq to Germany
Immediate steps after death
Day of death. Call +44 (0)20 7008 5000 (FCDO) or +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. 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. (German Federal Foreign Office, Auswaertiges Amt, 2025.)
Consular support
German Embassy in Baghdad can advise on document requirements for repatriation to Germany. Federal Foreign Office (Auswaertiges Amt) emergency assistance: +49 30 5000 2000 (24 hours). 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.
The FCDO advises against all travel to Iraq except the Kurdistan Region. 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 A post-mortem 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.
We are here to help, any time of day or night
If your loved one has passed away in Iraq, please do not face this alone. Our team will guide you through every step of bringing them home.
Reviewed by the Repatriate Service editorial team. Information sourced from UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance, official embassy contacts, and professional repatriation experience. Updated June 2026.
Sources: FCDO gov.uk · Iraq repatriation guide · Frequently asked questions