Mortuary pass and mortuary passport

When a body must be transferred across borders, specific authorizations are required to allow international transportation in compliance with health and administrative regulations. The two main documents required are the mortuary laissez-passer and the mortuary passport, essential tools both for returning to Italy and for transfers to other countries.

Why these documents are needed

The need for authorization does not depend on the reason the person was abroad, but solely on the fact that the body must cross a border. Even someone who dies while simply on vacation, for example, must be transported with one of these documents. These are therefore mandatory procedures in all cases of international transport, regardless of the context.

The regulatory framework: the Berlin Convention

In 1937, many European countries signed the Berlin Convention, an agreement designed to streamline procedures related to the transfer of mortal remains. The aim was to avoid bureaucratic delays, standardize health and hygiene requirements, and expedite the issuance of necessary permits. When transfers occur between states that have signed this convention, the mortuary laissez-passer is sufficient, replacing any other international document.

The mortuary laissez-passer: characteristics, issuance, and timeframes

The mortuary laissez-passer is the document used for transfers between countries that have signed the Berlin Convention. In Italy, it is issued by the municipality where the death occurred or where the body is buried, after the mandatory approval of the local health authority (ASL) regarding hygiene and sanitary conditions. When the death occurs abroad, however, the authorization can be issued directly by the local authorities or by the Italian embassy or consulate in the country.

To obtain it, you will need the death certificate, which you can request through the Agenzia delle Successioni, the coroner's certificate, the funeral director's declaration certifying the coffin's suitability for international transport, and, if the death is under investigation, the authorization from the judicial authority. If the destination country requires documentation in a foreign language, official translations may be required. Administrations treat these procedures as urgent, so processing times are generally very quick, often between one and three days. Costs vary depending on municipal fees, any translations or legalizations, and the services provided by the appointed funeral home.

The mortuary passport: when it is needed and how it works

The mortuary passport becomes necessary when the transfer involves countries that are not signatories to the Berlin Convention. In this case, the authorization is more detailed, as it must comply with non-harmonized regulations. In Italy, the document is issued by the Municipality or Prefecture, depending on their territorial jurisdiction or the procedures established by individual regions.

To obtain a mortuary passport, you need the death certificate, authorization from the judicial authority when an investigation is underway, an identity document of the deceased, the autopsy report, and a declaration regarding the final destination of the body, whether burial or cremation in another country. In this case, too, the funeral home must certify that the coffin complies with international requirements. Many countries require official translations or consular legalizations, which can impact the overall time and cost. Expenses include administrative fees, any consular documents, and funeral home services.