Practical guidance
What to do if someone dies in Burundi
This guide explains what happens after a death in Burundi, who to contact, and how to arrange for your loved one to be brought home to the UK. The information comes from FCDO and government sources. Every situation is different, and if you need someone to guide you through it, our team is available any time.
Typical timeline
Typical cost
FCDO 24hr helpline
+44 (0)20 7008 5000
When Someone Dies in Burundi: The First 24 Hours
Call the FCDO immediately on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours). The British High Commission in Kampala, Uganda (+256 31 231 2000) handles British national consular matters for Burundi on a non-resident basis.
The FCDO can advise on the current security situation in the specific location, which matters in Burundi where some border and rural areas have FCDO advisories in place.
The Legal Process
Death registration in Burundi is handled by the civil registry (registrar des actes de l’état civil). The civil registry issues the official death certificate. Where death was not from natural causes, the Public Prosecutor’s Office (Parquet) must authorise release before the body can be moved.
The export permit is issued by the relevant authority once all documents are in order. Documentation is in Kirundi or French — certified English translation is required for all documents presented to UK authorities.
Document Checklist
| Document | Issued By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Death certificate | Civil registry | Kirundi/French — translation required |
| Public Prosecutor’s clearance | Parquet (non-natural deaths) | |
| Embalming certificate | Licensed local mortuary | |
| Freedom from infection certificate | Ministry of Health | |
| Export permit | Relevant authority | |
| Consular death registration | BHC Kampala | Non-resident |
| Coroner permission (UK) | HM Coroner | Required in some circumstances |
Routing from Burundi
Bujumbura’s Melchior Ndadaye International Airport (BJM) is the main gateway. Most UK-bound repatriation uses Brussels Airlines (direct Brussels with UK connections) or routes via Nairobi or Addis Ababa.
What to Do in the UK
Notify your travel insurer as soon as possible. Gather original travel documents, passport copies, and any documentation about the circumstances of death. Timelines typically run 14–42 days.
For more information on the full repatriation process, read our complete guide to what happens when someone dies abroad.
Source: FCDO — Support for British Nationals Abroad, updated 2024. British High Commission Kampala contact details correct as of May 2026.
First things first
What to do in the first 24 hours
The immediate period after a death abroad is disorienting. Here are the steps in the order they normally need to happen.
Contact local emergency services
Contact the British Embassy or consulate
FCDO 24hr: +44 (0)20 7008 5000
Appoint a local funeral director
A local funeral director in will take care of the body, arrange embalming, obtain the necessary documents, and coordinate with airlines. The embassy can recommend accredited directors. You can also contact a specialist UK repatriation company, who will coordinate with a local partner on your behalf.
Contact your travel insurer
If your loved one had travel insurance with repatriation cover, contact the insurer immediately. They will often have an emergency assistance line and may appoint their own funeral director. They may cover the full cost of repatriation, which can be .
Gather the required documents
Repatriation from requires specific paperwork before a body can be transported. Your local funeral director will handle most of this.
What to expect
How long does it take?
Cost guide
How much does it cost?
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WhatsApp us nowReviewed by the Repatriate Service editorial team. Information sourced from UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance, official embassy contacts, and professional repatriation experience. Updated May 2026.
Sources: FCDO gov.uk · Repatriation from · Frequently asked questions