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What is repatriation insurance?
Repatriation insurance (also known as return transport insurance) covers the cost of transporting a deceased person from abroad to their home country. The cost of a repatriation ranges from 2,500 to 7,000 euros — without insurance, an enormous financial burden for the bereaved.
Repatriation is often included in international health insurance, protection letter products or specialist funeral planning products. The precise scope of cover is crucial: not every policy covers embalming, zinc coffin and consular fees.
The 5 most important providers compared
| Provider | Price/year | Coverage limit | Zinc coffin incl. | 24h hotline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADAC Auslandsschutzbrief | ab 59,90 € | unlimited | Yes | Yes |
| Allianz Reiseversicherung | ab 12,90 € | bis 15.000 € | Yes | Yes |
| DKV Auslandsreise | ab 14,50 € | bis 10.000 € | Partially | Yes |
| HanseMerkur | ab 17,00 € | bis 20.000 € | Yes | Yes |
| ERGO Reiseversicherung | ab 11,90 € | bis 10.000 € | No | Yes |
As of March 2026. Prices and conditions may vary. Please check the current insurance terms of the respective provider.
ADAC Auslandsschutzbrief — the classic choice
The ADAC Auslandsschutzbrief is the best-known product for travellers abroad in Germany. It covers the complete repatriation of a deceased person: transport, zinc coffin, embalming, documents. The coverage limit is unlimited — a decisive advantage for repatriations from overseas, where costs can quickly exceed 5,000 euros.
Disadvantage: The protection letter only applies to trips up to a certain duration (usually 6 weeks). It is not suitable for long-term stays or emigrants.
Tips for choosing: What you should look for
Check the coverage limit
A repatriation from Asia or Africa can cost 5,000 to 7,000 euros. Ensure the coverage limit is sufficient.
Scope of cover
Are embalming, zinc coffin and consular fees included? Or only the transport itself? Read the fine print.
Period of validity
Many policies only apply to trips of up to 6 to 8 weeks. For longer stays abroad you will need a long-term policy.
Pre-existing conditions
Some insurers exclude deaths caused by pre-existing conditions. Check the exclusion clauses carefully.
How to report a death to your insurer
Report the claim as early as possible via your insurer's 24-hour hotline. You will need: policy number, the deceased's name and date of birth, place and date of death, and the local death certificate. The insurer will then either instruct their own assistance partner or reimburse the costs upon submission of invoices.
At Ritual Service24, we work directly with all major insurers and handle the communication for you. This allows you to focus on what truly matters.
What to do without repatriation insurance?
Even without insurance there are options: The social welfare office can cover funeral costs under §74 SGB XII if the heirs are without means. We also offer flexible instalment payments. Advance planning can also prevent family members from facing high costs in an emergency.
FAQ: Repatriation Insurance
Which insurance covers the repatriation of a deceased person from abroad?
Most international health insurance policies and protection letters (ADAC, Allianz, DKV, HanseMerkur) cover repatriation in the event of death. The scope varies depending on the provider and tariff.
How much does repatriation insurance cost?
Depending on the provider, 10 to 60 euros per year. Family tariffs from 20 euros. The ADAC Auslandsschutzbrief costs around 60 euros per year and includes repatriation as a standard benefit.
Does the ADAC Auslandsschutzbrief cover repatriation?
Yes, the ADAC Auslandsschutzbrief covers the cost of repatriating a deceased person to Germany — including the zinc coffin and necessary documents.
How do I report a death to my insurer?
Report the claim immediately via your insurer's 24-hour hotline. You will need: policy number, death certificate, medical certificate. We handle the communication with your insurer.
Further guides
ADAC Auslandsschutzbrief
Detailed guide to ADAC cover in the event of death abroad.
Repatriation costs 2026
All costs transparently itemised — from embalming to air transport.
Plan ahead
Why plan now? Pre-arrangement contract for repatriation explained.