Repatriation Services

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If someone dies in South Africa and their family wishes to return them to another country for burial (or vice versa), New Life Burials handles all the logistics, legal paperwork, liaison with foreign embassies, transport, and compliance.

What Repatriation Involves

1.

Determining destination country’s requirements – Embassies or consulates will require certain documents: death certificate, embalming certificate, transit permit, etc.

2.

Preparation of the body – Embalming may be required so that the remains remain in a safe condition during transport. Also securing of coffin / casket that meets airline standards.

3.

Permits & documentation of the body – Embalming may be required so that the remains remain in a safe condition during transport. Also securing of coffin / casket that meets airline standards.


  • Death Certificate issued by South African authorities.
  • Embalming certificate if required.
  • Transit permit: for moving remains across borders.
  • Clearance from Home Affairs if required, customs in both departure and destination jurisdictions.

4.

4. Transportation:


  • Road transport to airport or border point.
  • Air‑transport: compliance with airline, packaging, veterinary or health if needed. Cargo arrangements.
  • On arrival, coordinating with local funeral or repatriation service.
  • Final burial or cremation in destination country – according to local laws, religious / cultural practice there.
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Legal & Practical Requirements in South Africa

  • The Department of Home Affairs must issue a Death Certificate.
  • If death occurred abroad, South African missions (embassies / consulates) assist with documentation and registration with Home Affairs.
  • Compliance with International Health Regulations: embalming (if required), sealed coffin, fumigation
  • in some cases coordination with airline rules and customs.

What Families Should Expect

  • Costs can be significantly higher than local burial due to transport, permits, airline fees.
  • Time delays: paperwork, obtaining clearances, transporting overseas, possibly consular stuff.
  • Need for certain documents: passport, identification, family consent, etc.

For more information or to arrange a repatriation