Funeral repatriation route guide
Repatriation from Nigeria to Germany
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Repatriation from Nigeria to Germany: what to expect
Nigerian nationals form a growing community in Germany. This corridor handles cases where a Germany-based Nigerian has a family member die in Nigeria and needs remains brought to Germany.
- Key document: Nigerian death certificate (state-issued, in English)
- Documentation takes 14-30 days. State-level variation applies.
- British High Commission in Abuja and Consulate in Lagos register the death and advise.
- Police report required for unexpected or unattended deaths.
- Germany Embassy in Abuja can advise on documentation. They cannot fund repatriation.
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 Abuja 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.
The process
What happens after a death in Nigeria
Contact the police (199 or 112) for unexpected deaths. A doctor must certify the death. Death registered with the state civil registration office. Nigeria has 36 states and the FCT, each with its own procedures. Documentation is in English throughout. Lagos handles the majority of international cargo flights.
Step by step
Timeline: Nigeria 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 with state civil registration office. Death certificate issued.
Documentation in English. State-level processing times vary.
Local funeral director and state authority
British High Commission Abuja or Consulate General Lagos notified
Simultaneous with Step 1. High Commission provides a list of local funeral directors.
Family or repatriation specialist
Embalming and preparation
Embalming required for international repatriation. Quality variable outside Lagos and Abuja.
Licensed local funeral director
Police report (if required) and all export permits obtained
Allow 14-30 days. Police report required for unexpected deaths.
Local funeral director and authorities
Air cargo from Lagos (LOS) or Abuja (ABV) to London Heathrow (LHR)
Once all documentation complete. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic serve LOS-LHR.
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
Common questions
FAQs: repatriation from Nigeria to Germany
In a straightforward case, repatriation from Nigeria to Germany takes 3-6 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 2-3 weeks. Complex cases involving police investigation or death in a remote state can take 6-12 weeks.
The core documents are: Nigerian death certificate (state-issued), embalming certificate, freedom from infection certificate, police report (if required), and passport of the deceased. Documentation is in English throughout.
The Germany Embassy in Abuja can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the Germany Embassy in Abuja as soon as possible after the death.
Yes. Nigeria has 36 states and the FCT, each with its own civil registration office. Lagos and Abuja have more experienced international funeral providers and faster processing. Deaths in more remote states take longer.
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.
Yes. Cremation in Nigeria and bringing ashes home to the UK is an option. You will need the death certificate, cremation certificate, and export permit.
We are here to help, any time of day or night
If your loved one has passed away in Nigeria, 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 · Nigeria repatriation guide · Frequently asked questions