Practical guidance
What to do if someone dies in Syria
This guide explains what happens after a death in Syria, 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 Syria: The First 24 Hours
Call the FCDO immediately on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours). The UK Embassy in Damascus has been closed since 2012. The British Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon (+961 1 960 800) is the consular post providing what assistance is currently possible for British nationals in Syria.
Be specific about the location. Syria is divided into distinct zones following the political transition of December 2024: the transition government controls Damascus and western Syria; the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) administer north-east Syria. The documentation process and practical feasibility differ significantly by zone.
The Political Transition Context
The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024 ended 53 years of Assad family rule. Syria is in political transition. Civil registration infrastructure — severely disrupted by over a decade of conflict — is now being absorbed into new administrative structures. Documentation processes are in flux. A specialist repatriation firm with current Syria contacts is the only realistic source of up-to-date guidance.
Document Checklist
| Document | Issued By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Death certificate | Relevant local authority (varies by zone) | Arabic — translation required |
| Cause of death documentation | Local authority | |
| Export permit | Relevant authority | |
| Consular registration | British Embassy, Beirut | Subject to current capability |
| Coroner permission (UK) | HM Coroner | Required in some circumstances |
Routing from Syria
Damascus Airport (DAM) has resumed limited commercial operations since December 2024. The more reliable route remains overland to Beirut, followed by air cargo from Beirut International Airport via Middle East hubs. Any routing is subject to conditions on the ground. A specialist firm will confirm the current viable route for each specific case.
Realistic Expectations
Syria is one of the most challenging repatriation destinations in the world. Families should understand that immediate repatriation may not be achievable in all areas. Any firm guaranteeing outcomes is not being honest about the situation.
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 Beirut 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