Death in Cuba: Insurance, Consular Help and Repatriation

SENSITIVE EMERGENCY GUIDE

Death in Cuba: insurance, consular help and repatriation steps

This guide outlines the first actions for relatives of a Canadian traveller who dies in Cuba. Follow the insurer, Cuban authorities, funeral professionals and Canadian consular officials.

First priority: notify local authorities and the travel insurer, appoint one family representative and contact Canadian consular assistance before authorizing major expenses or arrangements.

What to do first

Notify the hotel, hospital, police or appropriate local authority.
Contact the travel-insurance assistance line and follow its instructions.
Choose one family representative to coordinate communications.
Contact the nearest Canadian government office or the 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Do not set a Canadian funeral date until the remains and documents have arrived and cleared the required processes.

What consular officials may help with

Explaining local procedures and directing the family to authorities.
Providing lists of local funeral-service providers.
Helping obtain information and required documentation.
Assisting with questions about the deceased person’s Canadian passport.

Canadian government offices do not pay burial, cremation or repatriation costs, provide legal advice or replace the insurer or funeral home.

Documents may include

Official death certificate with the cause of death.
Cancelled passport.
Autopsy, police or medical reports when required.
Cremation or embalming certificate.
Transport permit and funeral-provider documents.
Documents requested by the airline and Canadian border authorities.

Insurance and costs

Repatriation can be expensive and delayed. Review coverage for preparation and transport of remains, local burial or cremation, return of ashes and travel by a family representative. Obtain authorization before signing contracts whenever possible.