Comprehensive Guide to Importing Human Remains into Canada: What You Need to Know

When faced with the challenging task of bringing a loved one's remains back to Canada, understanding the regulations set by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is crucial.

This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the process and provide you with all the necessary information.

What Constitutes Human Remains?

The CBSA's definition of human remains is broad, including:

• Complete bodies of deceased individuals
• Body parts, organs, tissues, or cells
• Skeletons, skulls, and other bones
• Anthropological or archaeological specimens

Importantly, cremated remains are treated differently and have fewer restrictions.

Essential Requirements for Importing Human Remains

• Proper Containment: At minimum, human remains must be transported in a leak-proof container. Some air carriers may require a hermetically sealed container.
• Death Certificate: An original death certificate must accompany the remains. If it's not in English or French, a translation must be provided. Death certificates are generally considered valid unless a screening officer suspects fraud, in which case a quarantine officer will be notified.
• Cause of Death Considerations: The importation process varies depending on whether the deceased had a communicable disease.
• Container Type: The type of container, particularly whether it's hermetically sealed (airtight) or not, can affect the import process.

Border Procedures

When you arrive at the Canadian border, officers will review the death certificate and take appropriate actions:

• No Communicable Disease: If the death certificate clearly shows no communicable disease, the remains can typically be released.
• Unclear Cause of Death: If the cause isn't specified, the officer's actions depend on the container type. Hermetically sealed containers can be released with a warning not to open, while others may require consultation with a quarantine officer.
• Missing Death Certificate: A quarantine officer must be contacted if there's no death certificate.
• Communicable Disease Present: For hermetically sealed containers, release is possible with a warning. Otherwise, a quarantine officer must be consulted.

A screening officer must inform a quarantine officer if there are reasonable grounds to suspect that the remains have arrived in a damaged state (e.g., broken hermetic seal, leaking container, or compromised container).

Special Circumstances

• Cremated Remains: These don't require a death certificate and are generally easier to import. However, it's recommended to carry the death and cremation certificates and use an easily scannable container.
• Organs for Transplant: These follow different rules under the Food and Drugs Act and are usually expedited to facilitate urgent medical needs.
• Suspected Health Risks: If there's reason to suspect a public health risk, a quarantine officer may issue special handling instructions.
• No Available Death Certificate: In such cases, other evidence like a coroner's letter identifying the remains and confirming they're free of vectors can be helpful.

Important Notes for Travelers

1. Always carry all relevant documentation, including the death certificate and any necessary translations.
2. Using a hermetically sealed container can often simplify the importation process.
3. Be prepared for potential delays if additional checks or quarantine officer consultations are needed.
4. Remember that HIV/AIDS and hepatitis are not considered communicable diseases of concern in this context.
5. A CBSA document will not be issued for the importation of human remains.

Exporting Human Remains from Canada

If you need to export human remains from Canada, and the deceased had a communicable disease, you must obtain permission from the Director General, Centre for Border Litigation and Regulatory Affairs at the Public Health Agency of Canada. They can be contacted at ra.exemption-ar@phac-aspc.gc.ca.

Communicable Diseases of Concern

The Quarantine Act provides a list of communicable diseases that are of particular concern. This list includes, but is not limited to:

• Active pulmonary tuberculosis
• Anthrax
• Cholera
• COVID-19
• Ebola
• Plague
• Smallpox
• Yellow fever

It's important to note that this list can change, so always refer to the most current version of the Quarantine Act.

Additional Information

• Caskets and Coffins: Information about importing caskets or coffins containing human remains can be found in Memorandum D8-3-11.
• Human Cells, Organs, and Tissues for Research: For information on importing these for research purposes, contact the Importation and Biosafety Programs at the Public Health Agency of Canada.
• Cargo Control Documents: These are not required for the importation of human cells, organs, and tissues. However, if issued, they can be acquitted by referencing the memorandum.

Airports Accepting Body Repatriation in Canada

When repatriating human remains to Canada, it's important to know which airports are equipped to handle this sensitive process. While many international airports may accept human remains, several major airports across Canada have dedicated Quarantine Stations that are specifically prepared to assist with body repatriation. These include:

1. Halifax International Airport (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
2. Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (Montreal, Quebec)
3. MacDonald-Cartier International Airport (Ottawa, Ontario)
4. Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Toronto, Ontario)
5. Calgary International Airport (Calgary, Alberta)
6. Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver, British Columbia)

These airports have 24/7 Quarantine Stations with dedicated phone lines and staff to assist with complex cases, including body repatriation. They are well-versed in the necessary procedures and can provide guidance on any specific requirements or concerns.

However, it's important to note that this list may not be exhaustive. Other international airports in Canada may also accept body repatriation, but they might coordinate with these main Quarantine Stations for guidance and assistance.

When planning for body repatriation, it's advisable to work with a funeral home experienced in international transfers. They can help coordinate with the appropriate airport and ensure all necessary arrangements are made. Additionally, you can contact the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) directly for the most up-to-date information on which airports can handle your specific repatriation needs.

Remember, each case of body repatriation is unique, and the process may vary depending on the circumstances. Always consult with the relevant authorities and professional services to ensure a smooth and respectful transfer of your loved one.

Seeking Help

If you have questions about these procedures, you can contact the CBSA Border Information Service (BIS). They offer toll-free services within Canada and can be reached from outside the country as well.

Remember, while these regulations may seem complex, they're designed to protect public health while respecting the dignity of the deceased and the wishes of their loved ones. Always consult with funeral homes experienced in international transfers and don't hesitate to reach out to official channels for clarification. With proper preparation and understanding, you can navigate this difficult process more smoothly, allowing you to focus on honoring your loved one's memory.