Families in Canada who wish to transport or send the ashes of a deceased loved one to India must follow a formal process through the Consulate General of India in Toronto. Indian authorities require specific documentation and approvals to ensure cremated remains are transported legally and respectfully.
The Consulate issues a mandatory No Objection Certificate (NOC), which is required before ashes can be taken to India. To apply, families must first gather all essential documents, including a completed Registration of Death Form for Indian passport holders, the official NOC application proforma, and the original death certificate issued by provincial authorities, along with a photocopy.
For applicants residing in Ontario, Form 16 must also be included. Families must provide the cremation certificate, as well as a certificate of packing that clearly lists the deceased’s name, age, date and time of death, cause of death, and details of the package contents.
Additional identification documents are also required, including the deceased’s original passport and a copy, along with the passport information of the individual who will be transporting the ashes.
The Consulate notes that all application fields must be fully completed, and fees must be paid either by debit card or through a demand draft made payable to the Consulate General of India.
Applications can be submitted in person at the Consulate between 9:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Families living outside the Greater Toronto Area may apply by mail, provided they include a pre-paid return envelope so the attested NOC can be sent back securely.
Once the NOC is issued, applicants must also obtain additional clearance through India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare by using the official e-clearance portal before the ashes can be transported.
Officials say the structured process is designed to ensure families comply with Indian regulations while offering a transparent and respectful method for returning loved ones’ remains to their homeland.