Death abroad

Regulations/December 09, 2025

Traveling is a great adventure, but it also carries risks that we often ignore. Unfortunately, there are situations in which travelers can become ill or, in the worst case, die in a foreign country. For Poles traveling to Spain, it is important to know what steps to take in such a situation.

1. Contact local services

In the case of the death of a Polish citizen in Spain, the first step is to contact local services such as the police (Policía Nacional or Guardia Civil). Officers will conduct the necessary investigation and prepare a report. In Spain, in the case of death due to a crime or unclear circumstances, an autopsy will be necessary.

2. Notification of the consulate

The next step is to contact the nearest Polish consulate or embassy. The consulate can help arrange for the transportation of the body to Poland and provide information on local regulations for handling the body of the deceased. The consulate staff will also help with local authorities and paperwork.

3. Gathering the necessary documents

In order to carry out the procedures for transporting the body to Poland, it will be necessary to gather the relevant documents, including:

Death certificate issued by local authorities,
Police report (if applicable),
Identity documents of the deceased,
Alternatively, documents proving travel insurance.

4. organization of body transport

Transporting a body to Poland can be arranged in several ways. The consulate can help you find a suitable transportation company that specializes in transporting corpses. It is important to make sure that the company is experienced in international transportation and meets all legal requirements.

5. costs associated with the transportation of the body

The cost of transporting a body can be significant, so it is worth bearing in mind that many people choose to purchase travel insurance that can cover such expenses. It is worth checking whether the insurance policy covers situations involving death.

The death of a traveling Pole in Spain is a tragic event that involves a lot of paperwork and emotion. It is crucial to act in accordance with local regulations, contact the consulate and gather the necessary documents. It is also a good idea to keep travel insurance issues in mind, which can help minimize the costs associated with transporting the body to the country. In difficult times, the support of loved ones and professionals is invaluable, so consider seeking psychological help.