Practical guidance
What to do if someone dies in Iran
This guide explains what happens after a death in Iran, 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 Iran: The First 24 Hours
Call the FCDO immediately on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours). Do not wait. The British Embassy Tehran is operational and can be reached on +98 21 6405 2000.
Before doing anything else, establish one critical fact: was the deceased also an Iranian national? Iran does not recognise dual nationality. If the person held Iranian as well as British nationality, Iranian authorities will treat them solely as an Iranian citizen. The British Embassy’s ability to provide consular access in these cases is significantly restricted — this is not a formality, it is a fundamental constraint on what can be achieved.
British-Iranian Dual Nationals
If the deceased was a British-Iranian dual national, the FCDO will give direct guidance on what consular support is realistically available. In these cases, a specialist repatriation firm with strong established local contacts in Iran becomes even more important than in a standard case.
The Legal Process
Death registration goes through the State Organisation for Civil Registration (SABTE AHVAL). The SABTE AHVAL issues the official death certificate in Persian (Farsi). Where death was not from natural causes, the Medical Legal Organisation (Pezeshki Qanuni) must issue clearance before the body can be released. This step can add significant time.
The Ministry of Interior issues the export permit once all supporting documents are in place.
Document Checklist
| Document | Issued By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Death certificate (Persian/Farsi) | State Organisation for Civil Registration (SABTE AHVAL) | Certified translation required |
| Medical Legal Organisation clearance | Pezeshki Qanuni (non-natural deaths) | |
| Embalming certificate | Licensed mortuary | |
| Freedom from infection certificate | Ministry of Health | |
| Export permit | Ministry of Interior | |
| Consular death registration | British Embassy, Tehran | Subject to dual-national limitations |
| Coroner permission (UK) | HM Coroner | Required in some circumstances |
Islamic Burial and Timing
Iran is approximately 98% Muslim, predominantly Shia. Islamic law requires burial within 24 hours. Where the family in the UK wishes to repatriate, this must be communicated within hours. Timelines from Iran typically run 14–56 days.
Sanctions and Financial Transactions
UK and international sanctions related to Iran’s nuclear programme affect financial transactions with Iranian entities. Engage a specialist firm that has established compliance procedures — do not attempt to make direct payments to Iranian parties without specialist guidance.
What to Do in the UK
Notify your travel insurer immediately. Note that many policies exclude Iran given the FCDO travel advisory. Gather all available travel documents, passport copies, and any information about the circumstances of death.
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 Embassy Tehran 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