Guide: Death of a loved one abroadUnited States

Coping with the Death of a Loved One Abroad

This painful situation requires many steps. This guide will assist you.

First Contacts

Embassy/Consulate

• Declaration of death
• Assistance with formalities
• Registration of the death certificate

Local Authorities

• Local death certificate
• Police formalities if necessary

Insurance

• Repatriation insurance
• Death insurance if applicable

Repatriation of the Body

Options

• Repatriation: return of the body to France
• Local burial: according to the wishes of the deceased
• Local cremation: repatriation of ashes possible

Organization

• Through repatriation insurance
• Through an international funeral service
• The embassy can provide advice

Costs

• Variable according to distance and country
• Often covered by insurance
• Consular assistance possible in case of difficulties

Necessary Documents

To Obtain On-Site

• Local death certificate
• Medical certificate of death
• Transport authorization (if repatriation)

At the Embassy

• Registration of the death certificate
• French death certificate

Administrative Formalities

In France

• Inheritance and succession
• Banks and insurance companies
• Social agencies

In the Country

• Closure of accounts
• Termination of contracts
• Local succession if assets exist

Support

Psychological

• This ordeal is difficult
• Do not hesitate to ask for help
• Associations that assist bereaved individuals

Practical

• The embassy can guide you
• SOS-Expat for legal questions