Repatriation from the United Kingdom to Czech Republic

In a straightforward case, repatriation from the United Kingdom to Czech Republic takes 2-4 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 10-14 days. Complex cases can take 6-12 weeks or longer.

Death must be registered with the local register office (or National Records of Scotland / GRONI) promptly. Sudden, violent, or unexplained deaths (coroner takes jurisdiction) may add time before the body can be released.

The core documents are: 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 Czech Republic Embassy in London can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the Czech Republic Embassy in London as soon as possible after the death.

Sudden, violent, or unexplained deaths (coroner takes jurisdiction) may trigger a post-mortem examination. This adds time: the body cannot be released until the authorities authorise it.

The Czech funeral director takes custody at Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) cargo terminal. The matrika (civil registry office) at the local authority registers the death; certificates are issued in Czech. The Czech Republic has been a Hague Apostille Convention member since 1998; apostille certificates are accepted for foreign-issued documents. All foreign documents require certified Czech translation. An embalming certificate and hermetically sealed coffin are required.

Cremation in the United Kingdom is widely available. A second medical certificate is required for cremation before the body can be removed. If the coroner is involved, a coroner's certificate replaces the second medical certificate. You will need the local death certificate, cremation certificate, and relevant export documentation. Your repatriation specialist can advise on the current position.