What to do if someone dies in Colombia

Colombia requires more specialist knowledge than almost any other Latin American repatriation. Multiple government agencies are involved, the export permit (INVIMA) is specific to Colombia and unknown to many generalist funeral directors, and there are no direct flights to the UK. This guide explains the process in order.

Step 1: Notify the British Embassy Bogota

The British Embassy in Bogota must be notified on the day of death. Address: Carrera 9 No. 76-49, Bogota. Phone: +57 1 326 8300. FCDO 24-hour emergency line: +44 1908 516666.

Consular staff issue UK consular documentation and advise on current Colombian government requirements. Do not engage any local mortuary until the Embassy has confirmed it is licensed for international repatriation.

Step 2: Registro Civil de Defuncion

The Registro Civil de Defuncion (civil death certificate) is obtained from a Notaria (notary office). This is distinct from the medical certificate of death issued by a hospital. Both documents are needed, but the Registro Civil de Defuncion is the legally recognised document for international repatriation. Source: Colombian Civil Registry Code (2023).

For violent, suspicious, or criminal deaths, the Fiscalia General de la Nacion (Attorney General’s Office) takes jurisdiction. The Fiscalia must formally authorise the release of the body before any other steps can proceed.

Step 3: Instituto de Medicina Legal (IML) post-mortem

For unnatural deaths, the Instituto de Medicina Legal y Ciencias Forenses (IML) conducts the post-mortem. IML offices are present in all major cities. In Bogota and Medellin, results typically arrive within 7 to 14 days. In Cartagena, Cali, or Barranquilla, allow longer.

If the Fiscalia is involved, the IML post-mortem is not complete until the Fiscalia formally releases the case. This combined IML-Fiscalia process is the most common source of extended delays in Colombia repatriations.

Step 4: Transfer to Bogota

Colombia is geographically diverse. Deaths in Cartagena, the coffee region (Salento, Armenia), or the Tayrona coast require the body to be transferred to Bogota (El Dorado Airport, BOG) for international air cargo. Domestic flights connect these cities to Bogota. Arrange the transfer through your licensed local funeral director.

Step 5: INVIMA export permit

The Instituto Nacional de Vigilancia de Medicamentos y Alimentos (INVIMA) issues the health permit required for exporting human remains. INVIMA is responsible for controlling biological materials leaving Colombia. Required documents: Registro Civil de Defuncion, IML post-mortem report, Fiscalia release (if applicable), embalming certificate, freedom from contagious disease clearance. Allow 3 to 7 days for the INVIMA permit.

Step 6: Embalming

Embalming is mandatory for international transfer. Licensed Colombian mortuaries perform this to the required standard. Confirm the facility is licensed before proceeding.

Step 7: Routing to the UK

No direct flights operate from Colombia to the UK. Standard routing: Bogota via Miami (American Airlines or British Airways codeshare) to London Heathrow, or via Panama City (Copa Airlines) to Heathrow. Human remains travel as air cargo. Your specialist manages multi-leg cargo booking with the receiving airline in each sector.

Travel insurance note

Adventure travel insurance is essential for Colombia. Standard UK single-trip policies typically cover Colombia for conventional tourism. Trekking, climbing, or activities at altitude (lost city, coffee region mountains) may require specific adventure coverage. Verify before travel. Source: Association of British Insurers guidance; FCDO Colombia travel advice (2023).