In addition to the above, other documents such as clearance and arrangements for embalming of mortal remains, clearance from local immigration/customs department, etc. are required. These procedures may differ from country to country.
While there is no undue delay in cases of natural deaths, the time taken in transporting the mortal remains to India is longer in the case of unnatural deaths, because of local procedures involved in those countries for investigating the cause of death.
Our Missions/Posts remain in constant touch with the next of kin of the deceased Indian national to facilitate the transportation or local burial of the mortal remains in accordance with the wishes of the family of the deceased. They also liaise with the concerned foreign officials to expedite procedures for the repatriation of mortal remains to India.
Yes, it is possible but most of these countries allow this only in the case of Muslims. This would also require the consent of the legal heir(s) of the deceased for local burial. In the case of non-Muslims, the mortal remains are required to be repatriated to their home countries. In the case of unclaimed bodies, local authorities take steps to dispose of them as they deem fit.
Local procedures fortransportation of mortal remains of foreign nationals vary from country to country. In Gulf countries,the normal time line ranges from 2 to 4 weeks due to local procedures as indicated above.If the death was due to unnatural causes and investigations are ongoing to ascertain the cause of death, it may take significantly longer, depending upon progress in the investigations. The Indian Embassy/Consulate stays in touch with the concerned local authorities to expedite the process.