Transport of remains and death procedures: checklist

Initial procedures

• 1. Obtain the death certificateObtain the death certificate in the United States from the local authorities or through the funeral home.
• 2. Contact the missionTo expedite the procedures, contact the relevant mission in advance by email or on the duty phone.
  Embassy of Türkiye in WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaCounsellor for Labor and Social Security – WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaCounsellor for Religious Services – WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaAll (45) →
• 3. Determine the place of burialKeep in mind that a certificate for transporting remains is required for burial in Türkiye and that registration is also required if burial takes place in the United States.
• 4. Prepare the transport documentsFor transport to Türkiye, prepare the death certificate, petition, identification, embalming and health letters, and other required documents.
  Embassy of Türkiye in WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaCounsellor for Labor and Social Security – WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaCounsellor for Religious Services – WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaAll (45) →
• 5. Register the deathTo register the death in the Turkish civil registry, submit the application form or petition, death certificate, and identification documents.
  Embassy of Türkiye in WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaCounsellor for Labor and Social Security – WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaCounsellor for Religious Services – WashingtonConsulates and Embassies · District of ColumbiaAll (45) →
• 6. Put inheritance procedures in orderHandle estate, bank, pension, and insurance procedures with the relevant documents and, if necessary, a power of attorney.