Country guide · Germany
Repatriation from Germany
German procedures for international transfers are formal, but they are also very predictable. Once the documents are in order, things move reliably. A repatriation from Germany is usually complete within one to two weeks.
What happens in the country of death
The local Standesamt (registry office) issues the death certificate, the Sterbeurkunde. For the international transfer, the authorities also issue a Leichenpass (mortuary passport). Funeral law differs slightly from one federal state to another, and our local partners know the regional practice.
The journey home
Frankfurt and Munich are two of Europe’s best-connected cargo hubs. From northern Germany, going by road is a practical alternative for many destinations.
Good to know
German documents are widely accepted across Europe, so translations are needed less often than for most other countries.
Read more
Talk to us when you’re ready
One call or message is enough to get things started. We’ll explain honestly what happens next and what it requires, and tell you what it is likely to cost.
Mon–Fri 10–17 (EET) · we usually respond outside these hours too