Registering the Death of an Indian Citizen in the UAE: Your Step-by-Step Embassy Guide

Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and navigating the administrative procedures that follow can add to the stress, especially when it happens abroad. This guide aims to simplify the process of registering the death of an Indian citizen in the UAE with the relevant Indian mission – either the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General of India, Dubai. We'll walk you through each step, offering practical advice to help you through this challenging time.

Starting Point: What Happens Immediately After a Death in the UAE?

Before you even approach the Indian Embassy or Consulate, there are crucial local procedures that must be completed. These steps are mandatory and provide the necessary documentation for the subsequent embassy registration.

1. Reporting the Death to the Hospital/Medical Authority:

   • The hospital or medical facility where the death occurred is the first point of contact. They will issue a Medical Death Certificate (also known as a Notification of Death).
   • If the death occurred at home, you must immediately contact the police and emergency services (999). They will arrange for the body to be transferred to a government hospital for examination and issuance of the medical death certificate.

2. Police Report:

   • For any death, a police report is mandatory in the UAE. The police will investigate the circumstances, especially if the death is sudden, accidental, or unnatural.
   • They will issue a Police Clearance Certificate or No Objection Certificate (NOC), stating there are no criminal implications. This is critical for all further steps.

3. Public Prosecution/Judicial Authority (if required):

   • In cases of unnatural death (accidents, suicides, homicides), the case will go to the Public Prosecution. They will authorize the release of the body after investigations are complete. This can significantly prolong the process.

4. Local Death Certificate Issuance:

   • Once the medical and police procedures are complete, the hospital will submit the necessary documents to the local health authority (e.g., Ministry of Health and Prevention - MOHAP) to issue the official UAE Death Certificate. This is the primary document you'll need.

5. Attestation of UAE Documents:

   • All documents issued by UAE authorities (Medical Death Certificate, Police Report, UAE Death Certificate) must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC). This attestation confirms their authenticity within the UAE and for international use.
   • Practical Tip: You can often get documents attested at MOFAIC service centers or through designated typing centers.

Documents Required for Indian Embassy/Consulate Registration

Once you have the attested UAE documents, you can proceed with the Indian mission. Ensure you have both originals and multiple photocopies (at least 3-4 sets) of every document.

Here's what you'll typically need:

• Original UAE Death Certificate: Issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, attested by MOFAIC.

• Original Passport of the Deceased: This will be cancelled and returned to you.

• Copy of Passport of the Deceased: All relevant pages.

• Original Emirates ID of the Deceased: (If available). This will also be cancelled.

• Copy of Emirates ID of the Deceased.

• Original Police Report/NOC: Attested by MOFAIC (if applicable, especially for unnatural deaths).

• Original Medical Death Certificate: Attested by MOFAIC.

• Original Passport of the Applicant/Next-of-Kin: The person applying for the death registration.

• Copy of Passport of the Applicant/Next-of-Kin: All relevant pages.

• Original Emirates ID of the Applicant/Next-of-Kin:

• Copy of Emirates ID of the Applicant/Next-of-Kin.

• Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate (for spouse), birth certificate (for parent/child), or other official documents proving the relationship to the deceased.

• Two Passport-size Photographs of the Deceased: Recent, clear.

• Application Form for Death Registration: This form can be downloaded from the respective mission's website or obtained at the application center.

• Declaration/Affidavit (if required): Sometimes, an affidavit might be needed from the next-of-kin, especially if there are complexities.

• Practical Tip: Always check the specific website of the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General of India, Dubai under their "Consular Services" section for the most current and exact list of requirements and forms. Requirements can occasionally change.

The Indian Embassy/Consulate Registration Process

The actual registration of death with the Indian mission is typically handled through their authorized service provider, BLS International, which has centers across the UAE.

1. Identify Your Jurisdiction:

   • If the deceased resided in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, or the Western Region, you'll approach the Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi.
   • If they resided in Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah, you'll approach the Consulate General of India, Dubai.

2. Complete the Application Form:

   • Download and fill out the Application for Registration of Death form accurately. Ensure all details match the official documents.

3. Visit the BLS International Center:

   • Take all original documents and their photocopies to the nearest BLS International center within your jurisdiction.
   • Practical Tip: It's advisable to book an appointment online beforehand to avoid long waiting times. Check the BLS website for appointment booking and center locations.

4. Submit Documents and Pay Fees:

   • The BLS staff will review your documents. Be prepared for them to ask questions or request additional information if anything is unclear.
   • Pay the prescribed consular fees for death registration and any service charges for BLS. Fees are typically paid in AED and are subject to change, so confirm current rates on the BL BLS International website.

5. Collection of Attested Indian Death Certificate and NOC:

   • Once processed, the Indian mission will issue an attested Indian Death Certificate and a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This NOC is crucial for either repatriating the mortal remains to India or for local burial in the UAE.
   • The processing time can vary, but typically it takes 2-5 working days after submission. Urgent requests might be accommodated in certain circumstances, but this is not guaranteed.

Options After Registration: Repatriation or Local Burial

With the Indian Death Certificate and NOC in hand, you have two primary options:

Option 1: Repatriation of Mortal Remains to India

This is often chosen when the family wishes to perform the last rites in their hometown.

• Embalming Certificate: The body must be embalmed by an authorized facility in the UAE. They will issue an embalming certificate, which is mandatory for international transport.

• Fitness to Travel Certificate: A certificate from a medical authority stating the body is fit for air travel.

• Airline Booking: You'll need to book cargo space with an airline that transports human remains. This usually requires coordination with a cargo agent.

• Customs Clearance: The cargo agent will handle customs clearance for the mortal remains at the UAE airport.

• NOC from Indian Mission: The NOC issued by the Embassy/Consulate specifically for repatriation will be submitted to the airline and cargo agent.

• Receiving End in India: Inform the receiving family in India about the flight details so they can arrange for customs clearance and collection at the Indian airport.

• Costs: Repatriation can be expensive, involving embalming, cargo fees, and agent charges. Costs can range from AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 or more, depending on the destination in India and the chosen airline/agent.

Option 2: Local Burial in the UAE

If the family prefers to bury the deceased in the UAE.

• Burial Permit: Obtain a burial permit from the local municipality in the UAE. This will require the UAE Death Certificate, the Indian NOC, and the police report.

• NOC from Indian Mission: The NOC issued by the Embassy/Consulate for local burial.

• Coordination with Local Cemetery/Funeral Services: Arrange for a burial plot and services with a local cemetery.

• Religious Rites: Coordinate with local religious bodies or community groups for appropriate last rites.

• Costs: Local burial is generally less expensive than repatriation, but still involves fees for the burial plot, services, and any religious ceremonies.

Key Considerations & Practical Tips

• Act Swiftly: While grieving, it's important to act quickly as procedures can take time, and some documents have time-sensitive elements.
• Jurisdiction Matters: Ensure you approach the correct Indian mission (Abu Dhabi or Dubai) based on the deceased's last residence.
• Next-of-Kin: The application should ideally be made by the closest next-of-kin (spouse, parent, adult child). If they are not in the UAE, they may need to provide a power of attorney to a representative.
• Financial Planning: Understand that there are significant costs involved, whether for repatriation or local burial. Check if the deceased had any insurance policies that cover such expenses.
• Employer's Role: If the deceased was employed, their employer might assist with some procedures, especially if they were the visa sponsor. An NOC from the employer might be required by the Indian mission in some cases.
• Keep Copies of EVERYTHING: Make multiple sets of photocopies of all documents at every stage. You never know when you might need them.
• Seek Assistance: Don't hesitate to seek help. Many community organizations, social workers, and even the Indian missions themselves can offer guidance and support during this difficult time.
• Language Barrier: Most procedures in the UAE will be in Arabic. If you're not proficient, consider taking someone who can translate or using a reputable typing center.

Common Questions Answered

• How long does the entire process take? From the time of death to the final disposition (repatriation or burial), the process can take anywhere from 5-10 working days for straightforward cases. If there are police investigations or complexities, it can extend to several weeks or even months.
• What if the deceased's passport is expired or lost? You would still need to provide proof of identity and Indian nationality. The Indian mission might require an affidavit and possibly a police report for the lost passport. Contact the mission directly for specific guidance in such cases.
• Are there any fees for the Indian Death Certificate? Yes, there are prescribed consular fees for the death registration and issuance of the NOC. These are usually nominal compared to the overall costs of repatriation or burial. Check the BLS International website for current fee schedules.
• Can someone else apply on my behalf if I'm not in the UAE? Yes, with a properly attested Power of Attorney from the next-of-kin, a representative in the UAE can handle the procedures. However, the initial steps (hospital, police) often require direct family involvement or a very clear authorization.
• Will the Indian mission help with financial costs? Generally, no. The Indian missions facilitate the paperwork and provide consular assistance but do not cover the financial costs of repatriation or burial. However, they can sometimes guide you to community organizations that might offer assistance in genuine hardship cases.

Important Contacts

While this guide provides general information, always refer to the official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date details.

• Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi: https://www.indembassyuae.gov.in/
• Consulate General of India, Dubai: https://www.cgidubai.gov.in/
• BLS International (for Indian consular services in UAE): https://www.blsindia-uae.com/

Navigating the death of a loved one abroad is an immense challenge. While the administrative steps can seem overwhelming, remember that you don't have to do it alone. Reach out to community support groups, friends, and the consular services for assistance. Patience, organization, and clear communication will be your best allies during this difficult time.