Funeral repatriation guidance
Repatriation from Israel to the UK
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How long does repatriation from Israel to the UK take?
Most repatriations from Israel complete in 14 to 21 days. Israel is not a Strasbourg Convention signatory, so the European simplified pathway does not apply. The National Forensic Medicine Centre at Abu Kabir in Tel Aviv conducts post-mortems for unnatural or sudden deaths. Ben Gurion Airport operates direct UK flights.
- Fastest cases (natural death in hospital, documentation clear, no forensic referral): 7 days.
- Average cases (Abu Kabir forensic post-mortem, police clearance, Ministry of Health permit): 14 to 21 days.
- Complex cases (criminal investigation, delayed body release): 28 to 40 days.
- Direct UK flights from Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) with El Al, British Airways, and easyJet.
- Cremation technically available at Or HaGanuz private crematorium near Haifa, but most families choose full body repatriation.
The British Embassy is located in Tel Aviv. The UK also operates a Consulate-General in Jerusalem � but this covers Palestinian Authority areas only. For all Israeli deaths, contact the British Embassy Tel Aviv.
Process verified May 2026, how we verify
Step by step
The repatriation process from Israel
Here is what happens after a death in Israel, and what you or your appointed coordinator needs to do at each stage.
What you will need
Documents required for repatriation from Israel
The following documents must be obtained before your loved one can be transported to the UK. Your local funeral director will help gather most of these.
We handle the paperwork
Our team coordinates with local funeral directors in Israel to ensure all documentation is obtained correctly and on time.
What to expect
How long does repatriation from Israel take?
Timelines vary depending on the circumstances of the death and the speed of local authorities. Here is a realistic guide.
Best case
7 days
Natural death, straightforward documentation, no post-mortem required.
Typical case
14-21 days
Most repatriations from Repatriation from Israel to the UK fall within this range.
Complex case
28-40 days
Post-mortem, inquest, criminal investigation, or remote location involved.
Factors that can extend the timeline
- National Forensic Medicine Centre (Abu Kabir, Tel Aviv) conducts post-mortems for unnatural or sudden deaths; release of the body after post-mortem can take several days
- Israeli police must close their investigation before the Ministry of Health export permit is processed
- Hebrew-language documentation requires certified English translation for UK entry formalities
- Religious authority involvement: the Israeli rabbinate may be consulted on religious law aspects of burial; non-Jewish deaths do not require rabbinical input but this context can affect funeral director availability
- Political situation can occasionally affect diplomatic processing timelines at the British Embassy
Cost
What does repatriation from Israel cost?
Every case is different, so we do not quote a figure until we know the details. Contact us for a case-specific estimate with no obligation.
What the cost depends on
- Whether a post-mortem or inquest is required
- Distance and location, including island or remote transfers
- Documentation and certification needed for Israel
- Whether travel insurance covers repatriation
- Air freight availability and timing
Travel insurance with repatriation cover often meets the full cost. Without insurance, the family is responsible for costs directly; the embassy and consulate cannot pay repatriation expenses. How we verify our information.
Travel insurance
Check whether your policy, or the deceased's policy, includes repatriation cover. If it does, the insurer typically appoints and funds the funeral director directly.
Official support
British Embassy and consulates in Israel
The British Embassy can provide assistance and information, but cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Contact them as early as possible.
Just found out? Start here
If a death in Israel has just occurred and you are not sure what to do first, our step-by-step guide explains everything from the first call through to bringing your loved one home.
What to do if someone dies in IsraelRoute guides
Repatriation routes from Israel
Bringing someone from Israel to a country other than the UK? These route guides cover the documentation, timeline and process for each corridor.
We are here to help, any time of day or night
If your loved one has passed away in Israel, please do not face this alone. Our team will guide you through every step.
Thank you. We have received your enquiry and will be in touch as soon as possible, usually within a few hours.
Reviewed by the Repatriate Service editorial team. Information sourced from UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) guidance, official embassy contacts, and professional repatriation experience. Process and costs verified May 2026. How we verify information.
Sources: FCDO gov.uk · Full guide: what to do if someone dies in Israel · Frequently asked questions