EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF EQUATORIAL GUINEA IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
MINISTRY OF
FOREIGN AFFAIRS, INTERNATIONAL
COOPERATION AND DIASPORA
DEATH CERTIFICATE AND REPATRIATION OF REMAINS:
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When the unfortunate event of the death of an Equatorial Guinean citizen abroad occurs, it is important that the family of the deceased contact this Consular Section as soon as possible to receive assistance and information, especially if the family intends to repatriate the body. However, even when this may not be the case, it is still required that the documentation issued by local authorities be legalized by this Mission for it to be admissible in EG.
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Bellow, we offer a more detailed breakdown of what to do and what to expect under these circumstances.
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The process or repatriation of a body involves compliance with sanitary, legal, and logistical standards from both the country where the death occurred and the receiving country. You will need to hire a funeral service specialized in international repatriation. They will handle much of this process for you. Bear in mind that all costs involved are the family's responsibility 1. Certification of Death Obtain the local death certificate, issued by the competent authority in the foreign country. If possible, include a medical report stating the cause of death. 2. Legalization of documents All documents must be legalized by this Embassy in order to be valid in Equatorial Guinea. 3. Mandatory Health Certificates Certificate of non-contagious disease. Certificate of embalming (required in most cases). 4. Preparation of the Coffin The body must be placed in a hermetically sealed coffin, usually a double coffin (one zinc and one wood). Packaging must meet international sanitary and transport requirements. 5. International Transport Permits Local permit from authorities for the international transfer of human remains. Authorization from the Embassy or Consulate of Equatorial Guinea in the foreign country. 6. Identification of the Body It is essential that a family member or legal representative formally identify the body before transportation. This step helps prevent confusion and ensures correct identification of the deceased. 7. Coordination with the Embassy or Consulate Request support from the embassy for: Document review. Authorization to enter the country with the remains. Coordination with local authorities and international funeral services. Logistics and Transportation Book cargo space on an airline that permits the transport of human remains. Provide the airline with all required documentation. 9. Additional Required Documents Passport of the deceased. Identity document. Family authorization letter. Contact details of the person or institution receiving the body in Equatorial Guinea. Important Considerations The process can take between 2 to 10 business days. Costs can be high, especially if no repatriation insurance is available. It is recommended to keep digital copies of all documents.