Death Overseas

	How do I have the remains of a relative returned to Canada?
	What should I do if I am notified of the death of a Canadian relative or friend travelling abroad?

Q: How do I have the remains of a relative returned to Canada?

A: Having the remains of a relative returned to Canada requires the assistance of qualified funeral homes in Canada and in the country where the death occurred. You should contact the appropriate Canadian government office abroad for assistance as well as the Department's Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa.

The length of time required for the repatriation of remains can vary greatly and is determined by a number of factors including the cause of death, location of death, etc. When death is the result of natural causes, remains can be more quickly repatriated. When death is the result of a crime, a suicide or an accident, repatriation of remains can take much longer.

Q: What should I do if I am notified of the death of a Canadian relative or friend travelling abroad?

A: You should contact the Emergency Operations Centre of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. An experienced officer is always available to respond to emergency calls from anywhere in the world.

For calls originating in Canada and the U.S., call 1 800 267-6788 or (613) 944-6788.
Canadian citizens outside Canada can call collect to (613) 996-8885.
Some countries also have toll-free lines to contact the Operations Centre in Ottawa.

Related Links
	Deaths section