The Mission Office has recently worked on several repatriations. It’s a difficult thing to discuss, but I want to share some information regarding repatriation that may be a help to you.

For an active missionary, as part of your monthly deductions you pay $14.80 for Emergency Evacuation which includes benefits for repatriation. IMG Global Response, based in England, is our provider for these services. They work with a network of International Funeral Directors who are experienced in legally transporting a body from one country to another. When a loved one needs to be repatriated, their directors coordinate with local providers in your home country and in the United States to assure repatriation happens as quickly as possible. They will obtain legal certificates, permits, schedule flights and coordinate with a funeral home of your choosing in the states. A normal repatriation will take 7-14 days.

Our plan has a $20,000 per individual benefit. This benefit will normally cover the cost of embalming, preparation for shipping, shipping container, and flight to return the body. The plan will also cover a ticket for one family member to return to the states.

The plan does not cover funeral expenses such as, a casket, facilities for services, or burial plot. Note: those costs can be deducted from a life insurance claim.

Should you decide to have burial on the field, the cost of embalming, cremation (if allowed in your country), and burial may be submitted for consideration under the repatriation benefit.

IMG Global Response will obtain the documentation needed for repatriation. However, there are three documents I encourage you to obtain and have clear copies of before leaving the country.

1. Official Death Certificate
2. Death of an American Citizen Abroad (Embassy)
3. Cancelled Passport   

These three documents are needed to process life insurance claims. We recently had a packet that was misplaced at an airport depot and never located because it was sent on the flight with the body. Fortunately, the family had copies of the necessary documents.

In our experience, when a missionary passes away on the field, there a many people who want to help. Unfortunately, in some cases, their good-hearted intentions can hinder the process for IMG Global Response, causing delays and added expense in getting your loved one back to the states. As best you can, allow IMG Global Response to utilize their expertise and resources. Doing so will lessen the stress on you and others who are grieving.

I hope this is helpful to you and as always, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions.

Mike