Repatriation from the Netherlands to Vietnam

In a straightforward case, repatriation from the Netherlands to Vietnam takes 4-8 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 3-4 weeks. Complex cases can take 8-16 weeks or longer.

Death must be registered with the gemeente (municipal civil registry) promptly. Violent or unexplained deaths (officier van justitie) may add time before the body can be released.

The core documents are: akte van overlijden (death certificate) with certified translation where required, embalming certificate, export permit, freedom from infection certificate, and passport of the deceased. Your repatriation coordinator handles obtaining these on your behalf.

The Vietnam Embassy in The Hague can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the Vietnam Embassy in The Hague as soon as possible after the death.

Violent or unexplained deaths (officier van justitie) may trigger a post-mortem examination. This adds time: the body cannot be released until the authorities authorise it.

The Vietnamese funeral director takes custody at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. The local People's Committee civil status office handles death registration. A Ministry of Health import permit is required. All foreign documents require certified Vietnamese translation and legalisation through the Vietnamese Embassy in the origin country. Vietnam is not a Hague Apostille member; full consular legalisation is required. The receiving funeral director coordinates with the People's Committee civil status office.

Cremation in the Netherlands is widely available. You will need the local death certificate, cremation certificate, and relevant export documentation. Your repatriation specialist can advise on the current position.