After a sudden loss, the question families ask first is when their loved one can come home. The short answer: once the documents are in place, repatriation usually takes 3 to 7 days. The exact timing depends on the country and on how quickly the paperwork comes together.
FOUR THINGS THAT DETERMINE THE TIMELINE
Four factors largely decide how long repatriation takes.
✓ Consular legalization at the embassy — 1 to 3 days depending on the country. The biggest variable
✓ Document preparation, translation, and notarization — usually 1 to 2 days
✓ Embalming and encoffining — usually 1 day
✓ Flight availability — depends on the route and cargo space
The steps that most often take time are consular legalization and, when the family is overseas, processing the power of attorney.
TYPICAL TIMELINES BY COUNTRY
These estimates are based on cases we have actually handled, assuming all documents are ready.
✓ Japan — about 2–3 days (no consular legalization; translation, notarization, and apostille instead)
✓ Mongolia — about 2–4 days
✓ Pakistan — about 3–5 days
✓ Vietnam — about 4–5 days
✓ Malaysia — about 4–5 days
✓ Indonesia — about 5 days
✓ Sri Lanka — about 5 days
✓ United States — about 5–7 days (embassy applications online)
✓ Philippines — about 7 days (consular legalization takes 2–3 days)
Detailed procedures and documents for each country can be found in our Country Guides.
HOW TO SHORTEN THE TIMELINE
The family’s help can noticeably shorten the process.
✓ Send the power of attorney early — for families overseas, this is the biggest variable
✓ Have the deceased’s passport and identity documents ready
✓ Choose one main contact person we can reach easily
When a family sent the power of attorney promptly, we once completed repatriation even to Senegal, in Africa, in about 3 days.
FOR AN EXACT ESTIMATE
Tell us the country and your situation, and we will give you an estimated timeline right away. Consultation is free, and contacting us places you under no obligation.
The timelines above are approximate, based on our actual experience, and may vary by situation. 24-hour consultation: +82 10-3668-3439