Repatriation: established route

Repatriation from Nigeria to the UK: step by step

A clear guide to each stage of the process, from the first phone call through to your loved one's arrival in the UK.

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Available around the clock for families dealing with a death in Nigeria.

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Step by step

The repatriation process from Nigeria

Each step must be completed in sequence. Your repatriation coordinator manages the process, but knowing what to expect reduces uncertainty.

Timeline

How long does the process take?

Best case

14 days

Natural death, no post-mortem, documentation issued quickly.

Typical case

21-28 days

Most repatriations from Nigeria fall within this range.

Complex case

35+ days

Post-mortem, inquest, criminal investigation, or remote location.

What can extend the timeline

NPC death certificate (5-14 days)
State Ministry of Health export permit (7-14 days)
Limited forensic capacity outside Lagos/Abuja
Post-mortem required for violent/suspicious deaths

Common questions

Frequently asked questions about repatriation from Nigeria

How long does repatriation from Nigeria to the UK take?

How much does it cost to bring a body home from Nigeria?

What is the National Population Commission death certificate in Nigeria?

Which airlines repatriate bodies from Lagos to London?

What are the biggest delays in repatriation from Nigeria?

City guides

Repatriation from specific cities in Nigeria

Abuja Lagos Port Harcourt

Start the process today

Our team handles every step of repatriation from Nigeria. Call us now or send an enquiry and we will respond as quickly as possible.

Reviewed 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 · Embassy contacts: Nigeria · Frequently asked questions