Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. If their wish was to be laid to rest or have their ashes scattered in another country, or if they passed away abroad and the family wishes to bring them home, understanding the regulations for traveling internationally with cremated remains is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you need to know when considering, “Can You Travel Abroad With Ashes?”
Taking Ashes on a Plane: The Basics
Yes, you can travel abroad with ashes. However, it requires careful planning and adherence to specific rules and regulations. Key considerations include documentation, urn requirements, and airline policies. This guide will help you navigate the process smoothly.
Essential Paperwork for International Travel with Ashes
When traveling internationally with cremated remains, you’ll need specific documents to ensure a smooth passage through airport security and customs. Here’s a list of the essential paperwork:
- Death Certificate: A certified copy of the death certificate is a fundamental requirement.
- Cremation Certificate: This certificate confirms that the remains have been cremated.
- Certificate of Sealing: Although not always mandatory, this certificate can prevent potential issues by verifying that the urn is sealed.
- Attestation from the Crematorium: A statement from the crematorium confirming that the container holds only the ashes of the deceased.
- Proof of Relationship: Evidence of your relationship with the deceased can also be helpful.
These documents will assist you when questioned by airline staff or security personnel. Increased security measures at airports mean that airlines are stricter than ever. Having the correct documentation will help prevent delays or the detention of the ashes.
Death certificate needed when transporting ashes
Urns for Traveling Abroad: Airport Security Considerations
When taking ashes on a plane, the type of urn you use is crucial. Security measures require that the urn is made of a material that can be easily X-rayed.
- Non-Metallic Material: The urn should be made of non-metallic, scannable material. Recommended materials include wood, plastic, non-lead lined ceramics, or even biodegradable materials like paper.
- Securely Sealed: The urn must be securely closed to prevent any spillage.
- Hand Luggage: Always carry the ashes as hand luggage. Most airlines prohibit transporting ashes in checked suitcases to avoid potential damage.
- Temporary Urn: Consider using a temporary urn for transportation to avoid damage to a more valuable, permanent urn.
Adding a tag to the urn is also a good idea. Cremated remains can be mistaken for other substances, and proper identification can prevent potential loss or confusion.
Who To Inform Before Traveling with Ashes
Navigating the complexities of international travel with ashes involves more than just paperwork and urn selection. Communicating with the right authorities and organizations is crucial for a smooth and respectful journey.
- Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO): This UK government department provides information and support to British nationals traveling abroad. They can offer guidance on local regulations and requirements for transporting ashes.
- Consulates and Embassies: Contacting the consulate or embassy of the destination country is essential. They can provide specific information about local laws and procedures related to the repatriation of ashes.
- Funeral Homes and Crematoriums: These professionals have experience in handling the logistics of transporting cremated remains. They can offer advice, assist with paperwork, and ensure compliance with regulations.
- International Repatriation Agents: These specialized agents focus on the international transportation of human remains and can handle all aspects of the process, from documentation to transportation.
- Local Funeral Directors: Working with a local funeral director in the destination country can streamline the process. They are familiar with local regulations and customs and can provide valuable assistance.
It’s also important to inform the airline of your plans to bring ashes on board. Different airlines have different policies, and early communication can prevent issues. Arriving at the airport early allows ample time for security screening.
Country-Specific Policies for Traveling with Ashes
Each country has its own regulations for importing cremated remains. Contacting the embassy or consulate of the destination country is crucial to understand their specific requirements. Here are some examples of policies for different countries:
- France: Requires a certified copy of the UK death certificate, cremation certificate, certificate of sealing, attestation from the crematorium, and a signed authorization from the person legally appointed to request repatriation. Air France-KLM is a popular airline for transporting ashes to France.
- Spain: Requires the UK death certificate, cremation certificate, a certified Spanish translation of the death and cremation certificate, the deceased’s ID (if available), and a sealing certificate. British Airways allows cremation urns containing ashes as either hand or checked luggage.
- Ireland: Requires the UK death certificate and cremation certificate. Aer Lingus allows an urn containing cremated remains as either checked or cabin luggage.
- Germany: Requires the official UK death certificate, certificate of cremation, a certified German translation of the death and cremation certificate, a copy of the deceased’s passport (if available), and a confirmation letter from the funeral home or crematorium. Lufthansa allows cremated remains as carry-on or checked luggage.
- Portugal: Requires the official UK death certificate, cremation certificate, and a certified Portuguese translation of the death and cremation certificate. EasyJet is a popular airline.
- Greece: Requires 2 copies of the UK death certificate, cremation certificate, 2 copies of the out-of-state transit permit, and a document with the flight number and details. Wizz Air allows cremated remains as cabin luggage only.
- USA: Requires a certified copy of the UK death certificate, cremation certificate, a mortuary certificate, and a statement from the funeral home/crematorium. Delta Airline accepts cremation urns as carry-on or checked baggage.
- India: Requires the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Indian Embassy/Consulate in the UK, a certified copy of the UK death certificate, the deceased’s passport, a cremation certificate, and a declaration of contents from the crematorium. Emirates allows cremated ashes to be carried as hand or checked baggage.
- Australia: Requires declaration of urns made from wood to the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources. Qantas Airways allows ashes as checked or carry-on baggage with no certificate requirements.
Airline-Specific Policies for Traveling with Ashes
Different airlines have specific policies regarding the transportation of ashes. Here’s a summary of guidelines for some common airlines:
- TUI Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Emirates Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Ryanair Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Jet2 Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Aer Lingus Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Wizz Air Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Logan Air Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Turkish Air Flight Ashes Guidelines
- British Airways Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Virgin Airways Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Easyjet Flight Ashes Guidelines
- Qatar Airways Flight Ashes Guidelines
Conclusion
Traveling abroad with ashes involves careful preparation and adherence to specific regulations. Ensuring you have the necessary documentation, selecting an appropriate urn, and understanding airline and country-specific policies are essential steps. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the process with respect and ease, ensuring your loved one’s final wishes are honored.
