Repatriation from Japan to United Kingdom

In a straightforward case, repatriation from Japan to the UK takes 10-21 days. The fastest cases complete in 7-14 days. Complex cases involving a medical examiner inquiry can take 4-8 weeks.

Embalming is not part of traditional Japanese funeral practice. Japanese funeral homes use dry ice as standard for body preservation. For international repatriation, full embalming to international standards is required and must be explicitly requested.

For many families, yes. Japan's cremation rate is over 99% and the process is well-organised. Bringing ashes home to the UK avoids the embalming and full body cargo requirements and is significantly faster and less costly.

The core documents are: shibo kenshin-sho (Japanese death certificate) with certified English translation, embalming certificate, freedom from infection certificate, and passport of the deceased.

The British Embassy in Tokyo 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 UK funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal. All Japanese documentation must be in certified English translation. The coroner for the district is notified. Straightforward cases proceed directly to funeral arrangements.