Where is the corpse export permit (Leichenpass) applied for?

The export permit for a deceased person, known in Germany as the Leichenpass, is an official document required for transporting a body out of the country, whether by land or by air. It is specifically needed when the deceased is to be repatriated to another country, usually to the person’s country of origin.

Where is the Leichenpass applied for?

The application is usually submitted to:

• the Gesundheitsamt (local public health authority) in the city or district where the person died.

In some federal states, the

• Standesamt (civil registry office) or

• Ordnungsamt (public order office)

may accept the application and forward it directly to the Gesundheitsamt.
However, the competent authority for issuing the document is always the Gesundheitsamt or the responsible local health authority.

Documents required for a Leichenpass

Typically the following documents are needed:

• the official death certificate (Sterbeurkunde)

• burial/cremation permit (Bestattungsgenehmigung)

• the deceased person’s passport or ID card

• details of the funeral home in charge of the repatriation

• a medical certificate confirming that the body does not pose a health risk (usually issued after the medical examination of the body)

• in some cases: proof of embalming or information about the type of coffin used (for example a zinc-lined coffin – Zinksarg)

Processing time

The Leichenpass is usually issued within one to two days.
Nevertheless, the process should be started immediately in order to avoid delays, especially when flights for the repatriation have already been booked.

Important note

A funeral home (Bestattungsunternehmen) that specialises in international repatriation will usually handle all application steps on behalf of the family, including:

• applying for the Leichenpass

• organising the transport of the body

in accordance with the relevant German and international regulations.

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The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. However, errors or incomplete details cannot be completely ruled out. Please regard the information in these articles as an initial point of reference and always contact the competent authorities for definitive and legally binding guidance.