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What happens if you die abroad?
Your funeral and repatriation from abroad costs may be covered by your insurance or not
When a loved one dies abroad, it can be an incredibly distressing and complicated experience. Dealing with local authorities, repatriation and funeral arrangements from afar and in a foreign language adds a layer of complexity that can pile stress upon you during a situation that is already incredibly hard.
Here’s a comprehensive guide from Compare Funerals for what you need to know and what to do if someone dies while outside their home country, and in what circumstances the body can be brought back to the home country, which is known as ‘repatriation’.
Insurance coverage and costs
The first step is to check if the deceased had travel insurance. If the insurance is in place and covers death abroad, the insurance company typically engages a local assistance firm. This firm will help arrange an international undertaker and handle various logistics. However, it’s important to note that not all travel insurance policies cover repatriation costs, so it’s essential to understand the specifics of the policy in question.
When insurance covers the costs of repatriation
When covered, the travel insurance will manage and pay for the necessary arrangements, including any hospital bills, documentation to be sorted out, repatriation and other funeral-related costs.
When insurance does not cover the costs of repatriation
If the travel insurance doesn’t extend that far or there is no valid insurance, the financial responsibility falls on the deceased’s family or estate. This includes paying for hospital bills, repatriation and local funeral costs.
Without insurance, these expenses can be substantial, adding stress to an already difficult situation which is why it is important to ensure you have a funeral plan in place.
Repatriation
Repatriation involves transporting the deceased’s body back to their home country. This process can be intricate, requiring various legal and health documents. Compare Funerals is one such company that specialises in repatriation, offering a comprehensive plan to manage all the necessary arrangements.
Compare Funerals provides a detailed repatriation funeral plan, known as the Marble Plan, which includes:
- Collection of the deceased
- Supply of a coffin
- Family support and communication
- Documentation management, including notary services and death certificates
- Preparation and embalming of the deceased
- Family meetings and private viewings
- Transport to the airport in a hearse
- Complete repatriation documentation, ensuring compliance with local, foreign, and consular requirements
- Sealed flight bag for the deceased
How it works
- Select your plan: Choosing a repatriation plan in advance can ensure that your funeral arrangements are managed according to your wishes, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
- Receive your paperwork: Upon selecting a plan, you will receive all necessary paperwork. The funds paid towards the funeral plan are securely held in a trust fund, ensuring that they are available when needed.
- Provide details to your next of kin: An emergency contact pack will be provided, containing all the information your next of kin will need to take the necessary steps after your passing.
- Get a quote: If unsure about the best plan, contacting Compare Funerals for a quote can help you make an informed decision.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and when it happens abroad, the challenges can multiply. Being prepared and understanding the options for repatriation and funeral arrangements can significantly ease the burden during such a difficult time. Ensuring proper insurance coverage and selecting a reliable repatriation service can provide much-needed support and peace of mind.
