Repatriation services
Whether your loved one died in the UK or abroad, our remains repatriation specialists will aim to get them home swiftly and safely.
Do you need immediate support?
You can call our helpline at any time.
Our friendly London team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
What is the repatriation of human remains?
If a person dies in a country away from home, their friends or relatives may want to arrange for their body to be brought back. This is known as 'remains repatriation' or the 'repatriation of human remains'.
Repatriation can be a complicated process – but we're here to make things as simple as possible. As an experienced international funeral parlour, we provide compassionate, step-by-step guidance and make arrangements on your behalf. It's all about making sure your loved one gets home swiftly, safely and in time for the funeral service.
What to expect
Compassion and guidance
We know how shocking and overwhelming it can be when a loved one dies away from home. Our team is here to guide you through each step with professionalism and compassion.
Global repatriation service
Do you need help transporting your loved one to their home country? Are you looking for help bringing them back to the UK? We cover all countries and accommodate all needs.
Minimal delays
Repatriation can be complex and isn't always quick – but we'll work as swiftly as possible to bring your loved one home. In most cases, we can complete the process in seven to 10 days.
"Nitesh at AFD provided an exceptional service for our dad from the moment we spoke with him on the phone. Our dad was repatriated from India, and Nitesh liaised with the repatriation company as well as our family throughout. He provided clear and helpful advice on how the embalming process was conducted, as well as how it was to be correctly applied. He also collected our dad after hours and ensured his safe passage."
An AFD client
Our remains repatriation services
Repatriation to the UK
For a loved one who has died abroad and needs to come home to the UK
- Transport to the UK from any country worldwide
- Repatriation for the person's body or cremated remains
- Typically takes 7 to 10 days
Repatriation abroad
For a loved one who has died in the UK and needs to go back to their home country
- Transport to any country from the UK
- Repatriation for the person's body or cremated remains
- Typically takes 7 to 10 days
How it works
Repatriation can be complex. It involves filing paperwork, making special travel arrangements for the person who has died and communicating with various organisations. The process is different every time and for every person.
The best thing to do is to get in touch with our team. We'll discuss your unique circumstances and guide you through the process so you can bring your loved one home swiftly and safely.
Worldwide repatriation service
At AFD, we've helped families repatriate loved ones to and from countries all around the world. Here are just some of the territories we cover.
A trusted international funeral director since 2021
Akshardham Funeral Directors (AFD) is a team of qualified international funeral directors established in 2021.
Our founder, Nitesh Patel, has worked in the funeral industry for nearly 20 years. He is the first funeral director from the Shree Kutch Leva Patel Community (UK) and possesses unrivalled knowledge of international funeral customs and procedures.

You'll find our funeral home in Edgware, North London. If you're in need, we're here to support you.
Your questions answered
What does 'repatriation of remains' mean?
The repatriation of human remains is the process of transporting a person who has died back to their home country. This can mean bringing a person who died abroad back to the UK or arranging transport from the UK to their country of origin.
Repatriation may involve transporting a person's body or, if they have already been cremated, their ashes. In any case, it can be complicated – but when you choose our remains repatriation service, we'll make sure you know what's happening at every step.
What happens if you die abroad?
If a person dies abroad, there are special steps to take. This includes registering the death in the country where they died and making arrangements with their travel insurance company to pay for their transport home. Each country has its own guidance and regulations on what exactly to do. That's why it's often worth using a specialised repatriation service from an international funeral director.
How much does repatriation cost?
The cost of repatriation varies depending on several factors, including the countries involved and the circumstances of the person's death. The best thing to do is to get in touch with our team. We'll listen to you, discuss the best course of action and provide a quote based on your unique needs.
How long does repatriation take?
It depends. Typically, we can complete the process and bring your loved one home in around seven to 10 days. However, it might take longer in certain circumstances – for instance, if the coroner needs to investigate how your loved one died.
