Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ). The answers provide information that supplements our list of services offered.

1. How do I report the death of a Canadian citizen abroad?

2. Do I need to register the death of a Canadian citizen abroad?

3. How do I have the remains of a loved one returned to Canada?

4. How can consular officials help?

5. Where can I obtain emergency financial assistance in case of a death abroad?

1. How do I report the death of a Canadian citizen abroad?

Contact the nearest Canadian government office abroad or our Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

2. Do I need to register the death of a Canadian citizen abroad?

Yes. You should register the death according to local regulations and obtain a death certificate from the proper authorities. You may need a local death certificate (authenticated and translated if necessary by officials at the nearest Canadian government office abroad) in order to register the death with the Vital Statistics Office of the Canadian province or territory where the deceased last resided. A fee is charged for each consular service provided, starting at C$50 per service. Consult our Consular Fees section for details.

3. How do I have the remains of a loved one returned to Canada?

Having the remains of a loved one returned to Canada requires the assistance of qualified funeral homes both in Canada and in the country where the death occurred. Confirm whether any travel health insurance purchased by the deceased will cover the preparation and repatriation of remains to Canada or, alternatively, cremation or local burial. You may contact us for assistance.   

The amount of time required for the repatriation of remains can vary greatly and is determined by a number of factors, including the location and cause of death.

4. How can consular officials help?

Canadian consular officials overseas and in Ottawa can assist families in making all the necessary arrangements in such situations. If Canadian consular officials are notified of the death first, they will make arrangements through the RCMP to have the appropriate Canadian police service contact the next of kin and put the family in touch with consular officials in Ottawa. The family will then need to decide whether to have the remains returned to Canada or buried or cremated in the other country. Consular officials can then assist with the following:

• With permission from the next of kin, returning the remains to Canada at the earliest possible time. Travellers may encounter security concerns if they are transporting cremated remains in urns. Contents may be subject to X-ray examination. Check with the appropriate foreign government office accredited to Canada to inquire about country-specific exit requirements.
• Obtaining appropriate documentation, including a death certificate, an autopsy report, and police reports, where applicable.
• Obtaining information on the circumstances surrounding the death.
• Obtaining information on police investigations, arrests, and court proceedings, if the death was the result of murder or suicide. The investigation into the death of a Canadian abroad is the sole responsibility of the local authorities.
• Returning personal effects to Canada or making arrangements for disposal in the other country.
• At the request of the next of kin, providing documentation to insurance companies to assist in the payment or investigation of claims.

5. Where can I obtain emergency financial assistance in case of a death abroad?

All costs related to repatriation of remains and personal belongings must be borne by the client or applicable insurance company.

See our Financial Assistance FAQ for further information.