Death

The Embassy can provide assistance when a Danish citizen or citizen with permanent residence in Denmark dies during temporary stays abroad.

Returning the deceased to Denmark

• If the deceased person had a travel insurance, the insurance company arranges for the deceased  to be returned to Denmark and covers the costs. 
• If the deceased was not insured, the relatives have to cover the costs themselves.  The relatives decide whether the deceased should be buried or cremated in the country where the death occurred or whether the deceased should be returned to Denmark (repatriation).
• Repatriation can be expensive, so make sure you discuss the costs before confirming your arrangements. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy can guide and help you with the practicalities.  A fee is required for the Embassy’s assistance, which is calculated on an hourly basis. 

The Embassy cannot assist you with: 

• Paying costs in connection with issuing certificates and returning the body to Denmark
• Guarantee payment of the costs
• Provide a loan or prepayment

The EHIC card (blue card) does not cover expenses related to repatriation.

In some cases, you can seek financial assistance in connection with the funeral from Udbetaling Danmark (begravelseshjælp).

Administration of the deceased’s estate

If the deceased resided in Denmark, the estate of the deceased’s person is administered in Denmark by the relevant probate court. If the deceased resided abroad, the estate of the deceased is administered in the country in which the deceased was resident at time of death.  Further information regarding inheritance and administration of estates abroad can be found here.