Specialists Since 1994
Cuba Repatriation Experts
Available 24/7
Bilingual Team EN / ES
International Repatriation
What is International Repatriation?
International repatriation is the process of transporting a loved one’s remains to their home country for burial or final rites. It involves documentation, embalming, consular authorizations, and airline coordination. Very few funeral homes in Florida have the experience to manage this process efficiently — National Funeral Homes has been doing it since 1994.
For immigrant families in Miami, repatriation is often a cultural obligation and a practical decision. Returning a loved one to their homeland allows the entire family to gather, follow traditional rites, and say goodbye in a meaningful setting — often at a lower cost than services in the United States.
Countries We Serve
Cuba and All of Latin America
- Cuba — Our primary specialty since 1994
- Colombia
- Venezuela
- Mexico
- Dominican Republic
- Puerto Rico
- Guatemala and Nicaragua
- All of Latin America and the Caribbean
- Worldwide service available
Why Families Choose to Repatriate Their Loved Ones
Emotional and Cultural Reasons
- Honor cultural and religious traditions that can only be observed in the country of origin
- Gather the entire family for a shared farewell
- Fulfill the deceased’s last wish to rest in their homeland
- Facilitate mourning following familiar family and cultural practices
- Celebrate the legacy, roots, and community of the loved one
Economic Reasons
- Avoid high US cemetery costs (plot, vault, headstone, maintenance)
- In Cuba, funeral services are provided free upon arrival — the family only pays for repatriation
- Guatemala and Nicaragua: government subsidies available — we coordinate with consulates
- Sending ashes is simpler and more affordable
- Transparent pricing — no hidden fees
How the Repatriation Process Works
Step 1 — Initial Consultation
We meet with your family by phone or in person to confirm your wishes, gather necessary information, and determine whether the repatriation will be of the body or cremated remains. We provide a transparent, itemized quote with no hidden charges.
Step 2 — Documentation and Permits
We prepare and process all required documents: death certificate, embalming certificate, transit permit, consular permit, and entry documentation for the destination country. We handle all consular appointments on your behalf — you do not need to contact the consulate.
Step 3 — Preparation of the Deceased
For traditional repatriation, the body is professionally embalmed according to US and destination country standards. For cremation, the ashes are placed in an airline-approved urn with secure packaging. Both options comply with all international airline and customs regulations.
Step 4 — Airline and Consulate Coordination
We coordinate directly with airlines and the relevant consulates to schedule transport and secure all authorizations before shipping. Our established relationships with carriers and embassies significantly reduce processing times.
Step 5 — Delivery and Follow-Up
We coordinate with a receiving funeral home or family representative at the destination to ensure safe and dignified delivery. We keep the family informed throughout the entire process so they are never left without updates.
Repatriation to Cuba — Specialists Since 1994
Our Primary Specialty
National Funeral Homes was founded in the heart of Miami’s Cuban community and has been repatriating remains to Cuba since 1994. We have direct relationships with Cuban consular authorities, established air routes to the island, and deep knowledge of the documentation requirements that make Cuba repatriation unique.
When remains arrive in Cuba, the Cuban government provides funeral services at no charge. Your family only pays our repatriation service from Miami to the point of arrival. We handle all permits, consular approvals, and local logistics — to make the process as fast and seamless as possible.
Special Permits Managed
We handle all Cuban consular transit permits and special authorizations required for repatriation to the island.
Flight Restrictions Resolved
Flights to Cuba have unique cargo regulations. Our team manages all reservations and compliance requirements with airlines operating to the island.
Local Partners on the Island
We coordinate with trusted receiving funeral homes in Cuba to ensure dignified delivery and appropriate local arrangements.
Full Body Repatriation vs. Sending Ashes
Full Body Repatriation
- Professional embalming to international standards
- Transit casket or airline-approved container
- Complete consular documentation
- More complex process and higher freight cost
- Required by families for whom returning the body is non-negotiable
Sending Ashes (Cremation)
- Faster and more affordable process
- Airline-approved urn with secure packaging
- Simplified documentation
- Easier to transport as carry-on or checked luggage
- Preferred by families who wish to scatter or keep ashes locally
Not sure which option is best for your family? Call us 24/7 and we will explain all options clearly, without pressure and without hidden costs. Contact us here.
Why Families Trust National Funeral Homes
- Over 30 years of international repatriation experience
- Deep knowledge of Cuban consular requirements
- Bilingual team — Spanish and English
- Available 24/7 — including holidays
- Transparent pricing — itemized quotes, no surprises
- We handle consular appointments on your behalf
Frequently Asked Questions — International Repatriation
How long does the repatriation process to Cuba take?
Generally between 5 and 10 business days, depending on consulate processing times and flight availability. With our established relationships, we frequently complete the process faster than average. We provide a time estimate at the initial consultation.
What documents are needed?
Death certificate, embalming certificate, transit permit, consular permit, and identification of the recipient in the destination country. We prepare and process each document on your behalf — you do not need to contact the consulate personally.
Can I hold a farewell service in Miami before repatriation?
Yes. We can arrange a viewing or private memorial service in Miami before the transfer. Many families choose this option to allow friends and the South Florida community to say goodbye before the final departure.
Is repatriation more affordable than burial in the US?
In most cases, yes. Burial in the US includes plot, vault, headstone, and maintenance costs. Repatriation avoids all those expenses. In Cuba, funeral services are provided free upon arrival. In Guatemala and Nicaragua, government subsidies are available — we coordinate with consulates to obtain them.
Do you handle repatriations to countries outside Latin America?
Yes. We offer a worldwide repatriation service. Although Cuba and Latin America are our primary specialties, we have coordinated repatriations to Europe, Africa, and other regions. Contact us to discuss your specific destination.
Ready to Begin? We Are Here 24/7.
Losing a loved one is never easy. When repatriation is the right decision for your family, our team is ready to guide you through every step with compassion, clarity, and no hidden costs. Call us now or send us a message.