OVERVIEW
The United States is among the countries we are most often asked to repatriate to from Korea. The process is relatively well established, though consular verification at the U.S. Embassy in Korea typically takes around two days. Applications are generally made through the embassy’s website, and documents are also obtained online.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
✓ The deceased’s original passport and a copy of the alien registration card
✓ Death certificate (postmortem examination report)
✓ Certificate of embalming
✓ Non-contagious disease certificate
✓ Consular verification from the U.S. Embassy in Korea
EMBALMING REQUIREMENT
Embalming is required for air transport. The certificate issued afterwards forms part of the customs documentation.
CASKET · PACKAGING
A casket meeting international transport standards is required. Some airlines may have additional packaging requirements, which we confirm at the time of booking.
CONSULAR PROCEDURE
Consular verification of the death-related documents must be obtained through the U.S. Embassy in Korea’s website. This step usually takes one to two days. Where the family is in the United States, a letter of authorization is required.
ESTIMATED TIMELINE
Approximately 5–7 days, once documents are in place.
NOTES
Where the family is in the United States, authorization forms or local notarization can take considerable time. Preparing documents in advance can shorten the overall timeline considerably.
Last verified 2026-07-25
Regulations may change without notice. Please confirm with us before proceeding. 24-hour assistance: +82-10-3668-3439