Practical guidance
What to do if someone dies in Iraq
This guide explains what happens after a death in Iraq, 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 Iraq: The First 24 Hours
Call the FCDO immediately on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours). If the death occurred in Baghdad or central/southern Iraq, they will connect you with the British Embassy Baghdad (+964 790 192 6280). If in the Kurdistan Region, contact the British Consulate Erbil (+964 750 444 7101). Do not wait.
The FCDO can confirm the current security situation in the specific area, advise on what documentation is required, and provide guidance on which specialist repatriation firms are currently operating in Iraq.
The Legal Process
Death in Iraq is registered with the Civil Status Directorate (Mudiriyyat al-Ahwal al-Madaniyyah). The Directorate issues the official death certificate, which is the foundation document for the entire repatriation process. Where the death was not from natural causes, the Medico-Legal Directorate must issue clearance before the body can be released.
The Ministry of Interior issues the export permit once all supporting documents are in place.
All documents are in Arabic (or Kurdish in the Kurdistan Region) and require certified English translation before any UK authority will accept them.
Document Checklist
| Document | Issued By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Death certificate | Civil Status Directorate | Arabic/Kurdish — translation required |
| Medico-Legal clearance | Medico-Legal Directorate | Required if not natural causes |
| Embalming certificate | Licensed local mortuary | |
| Freedom from infection certificate | Ministry of Health | |
| Export permit | Ministry of Interior | |
| Consular death registration | British Embassy Baghdad or Consulate Erbil | |
| Coroner permission (UK) | HM Coroner | Required in some circumstances |
Islamic Burial and Timing
Iraq is approximately 97% Muslim. Islamic law requires burial within 24 hours. The family must communicate immediately that repatriation to the UK is intended. Islamic scholars permit delay for repatriation where the deceased’s family is based abroad. An experienced specialist firm will handle this sensitively. Timelines for repatriation from Iraq typically run 14–56 days.
What to Do in the UK
Notify your travel insurer as soon as possible — most policies require immediate notification. Gather original travel documents, passport copies, and any documentation about the circumstances of death. The FCDO will advise on registering the death through UK civil registration on return.
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 Baghdad and British Consulate Erbil 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 June 2026.
Sources: FCDO gov.uk · Repatriation from · Frequently asked questions