Repatriation Definitions
Please refer to the list below of Repatriation Definitions to familiarize yourself with the terminology commonly used when repatriating your loved one. We have listed ones you are likely to not know.
What is a Cadaver Certificate?
A cadaver certificate, also known as a certificate of no contagious disease, is a legal document issued by local health authorities that certifies the deceased did not suffer from any contagious diseases at the time of their death (1). It helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases across borders and ensures that the remains are safe to transport.
What is an Apostille Stamp?
Repatriation involves transporting the deceased person’s remains from one country to another. The process often requires various documents to be legalised to prove their authenticity to the receiving country’s authorities. The apostille stamp validates the signatures and seals on these documents, ensuring that they are accepted by the foreign authorities without further legalisation.
What is a Mortuary Passport?
A mortuary passport is a document issued by a country’s consular or diplomatic authorities to facilitate the transportation of human remains across international borders. Its primary purpose is to serve as a permit for repatriating the deceased person’s remains to their home country or another designated country. Mortuary passports contain information about the deceased person, the cause of death, and details about the transportation arrangements.
The process for obtaining a mortuary passport may vary depending on the country and its consular services. However, it generally involves providing proof of the deceased’s citizenship, a certified copy of the death certificate, and relevant permits or documentation from local authorities.
What is a Freedom from Infection Certificate?
A Freedom from Infection Certificate, also known as a No Infection Certificate or a Certificate of Non-Contagious Disease, is an official document issued by a medical professional or an authorised health institution. This certificate attests that the individual in question, typically the deceased in the context of repatriation, has been examined and found to be free of any contagious or infectious diseases. The purpose of this certificate is to ensure the safe handling and transportation of the remains and to comply with international health regulations, safeguarding public health and preventing the potential spread of communicable diseases across borders.
What is a Declaration of contents?
Is a document that provides a detailed description of what is inside the coffin. This document is usually required by airlines and customs authorities to ensure that the coffin’s contents meet the necessary regulations and pose no risk to public health or safety. The declaration typically includes information about the deceased, the materials used in the preparation of the body, and a list of any personal items or other objects inside the coffin. The funeral director must sign this declaration, and it may need to be notarized or certified, depending on the requirements of the involved countries