Repatriation of the deceased in Riga

Methods of Repatriating the Deceased from Riga

Embalming is used to preserve the body for ten days or more. For transport by truck, the body is protected in a hermetically sealed zinc container. The coffin containing the body is placed in the luggage compartment of the selected mode of transport, subject to permission from the Health Inspectorate. To obtain permission, you must submit the following documents to the Inspectorate: an application, a certificate from a medical institution stating the cause of death or a death certificate, and a certificate from the funeral service provider stating that the body of the deceased has been placed in a coffin in accordance with regulations. The coffin contains only the body of the deceased and personal belongings that will be buried with them.

Transporting the body by air

Transporting the deceased by air is an expensive but fast method of delivery. The zinc container is delivered to the airport by special transport 4-6 hours before the flight; an escort is required, and upon arrival, a hearse is provided.

Transporting the body by rail

Rail transport is a more cost-effective option compared to air transport, but it also requires specialized transport to the departure and arrival points, as well as an escort. The cargo is placed in baggage cars, the availability of which depends on the train's composition.

Transportation of the body by water

Transportation by water also requires special transport to the port, departure and arrival points, and an accompanying person. The coffin with the body is placed in the baggage compartment of the watercraft.

Transportation of the deceased by car

This method is cost-effective and fast. The driver accompanies the body in a sealed coffin, delivering it directly to the cemetery.

Required documents for transporting a body to another city from Riga

The following documents are required to organize the transportation:

• Official death certificate or medical certificate (copies can be provided).
• A certificate (certificate) in any form from the funeral service confirming the performance of ritual services for sealing zinc coffins, confirming the absence of foreign objects, including a detailed list of the deceased's personal and valuable belongings, if they are being sent with the body.
• Permit from the Health Inspectorate confirming compliance with sanitary standards during transportation.
• A certificate from the cemetery where the deceased's body will subsequently be buried.

The death certificate must be translated into the language of the country receiving the body. Notarized and apostilled.

For international repatriation, the following is required:

• Application for customs clearance.
• Approval from the diplomatic service of the country receiving the body.

Assistance with repatriation of the body from Riga

The City Funeral Service provides body transportation services in Riga. Our funeral service specialists will help determine the most appropriate method and route for transportation, prepare the necessary documents for international transportation, and provide professional support throughout the entire journey. For assistance and assistance with transporting the body, please call 24/7 at +371 2944 9849.