Repatriation from the United Kingdom to Ukraine

In a straightforward case, repatriation from the United Kingdom to Ukraine takes 4-12 weeks. The fastest cases complete in 4 weeks. Complex cases can take 6 months or longer or longer.

Death must be registered with the register office in England and Wales, National Records of Scotland, or the General Register Office Northern Ireland (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 Ukraine Embassy in London can assist with document authentication and advise on repatriation requirements. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact the Ukraine 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.

Death registration in Ukraine is handled by the State Registry of Acts of Civil Status (DRACS); certificates are issued in Ukrainian. Ukraine has been a Hague Apostille Convention member since 2003; apostille certificates are accepted. Kyiv Boryspil Airport (KBP) has been closed since February 2022; access must be arranged via Poland or Romania. All foreign documents require certified Ukrainian translation. Access constraints due to the ongoing armed conflict mean timelines are unpredictable. A specialist with current operational contacts is required. 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.