Certificate allowing the repatriation of body or ashes (remains) into Poland
Where to apply?
You can obtain a certificate for bringing a body or ashes (remains) into the country at the territorially competent consular office of the Republic of Poland.
Transport of corpses is only permitted using means of transport specially designed for this purpose, provided that certain sanitary requirements are met. In order to bring a body to Poland, it is necessary to use the services of a company specializing in the international transport of bodies.
In the event of the death of a loved one in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos or Myanmar, we suggest first notifying the insurer if the deceased person was insured. The insurer will be responsible for hiring an appropriate funeral company to organize transport.
If the deceased person was not insured, due to the considerable distance and complicated local legal regulations, we suggest hiring a funeral company yourself. Such a company should have a local partner in the region who will help you obtain a death certificate and complete the necessary formalities on your behalf.
The costs of bringing the body or human remains to the country are borne by the insurer or the family.
Do I have to apply in person?
Documents can be submitted in person or sent by post.
How to book an appointment?
Please contact us by email: bangkok.consul@msz.gov.pl
What documents do I need to submit?
ou will need:
- A burial permit issued by the district governor or mayor — such permit may be requested by the deceased’s family or a funeral parlour authorised to do so.
- A copy of the death certificate or other document confirming the death.
- A corpse cremation certificate,
- A certificate from the funeral parlor that the ashes were placed in a special, damage-resistant container.
How much does it cost?
- The visa fee is 1806 THB.
- Consular fees should be paid upon submitting your application at the Consular Section.
- Accepted forms of payment: cash.
- The final amount of the fee will be determined during the visit after analyzing the submitted documents.
- More information about the payment is available here: Consular fees.
What is the waiting time?
The consul will issue the certificate without delay and not later than 3 days from the application date
How to collect the documents?
In person. You can also request to have them delivered to you by post if you will cover the postage costs.
How to appeal?
In the event of refusal, the consul will issue a decision against which you can lodge a complaint with the Minister of Foreign Affairs within 7 days. The complaint is lodged via the consul who issued the decision.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if the family chooses not to repatriate the body into Poland?
If the family of the deceased person chooses not to have them brought to Poland, the consul will request local authorities to give them a burial in accordance with local laws (at the cost of local authorities, in public cemeteries).
Remember that the consul will not cover your expenses, provide advice or take decisions on burial arrangements on behalf of the deceased’s family.
Legal basis
Ustawa z dnia 25 czerwca 2015 roku Prawo konsularne