You're abroad when you hear the news: a relative in your home country has died. You need to shorten your stay in order to organize the funeral, be present with the family and attend the funeral. But you don't know how to organize your early return. Here's everything you need to know to manage your early return.
Ask your insurance company
If you are traveling abroad on business or pleasure and learn of the death of a loved one, you must first of all contact your insurance company.
Some insurance companies offer warranty "trip interruption" which entitles you to compensation if you have to return to your home country in a hurry. Early return may be covered if one of your loved ones is in hospital with a life-threatening conditionor if you have to attend the funeral of a loved one. This type of coverage considers a loved one :
- spouse
- ascendants or direct ascendants
- brothers and sisters
- in-laws
Please note that thetrip interruption"This is often included in a comprehensive insurance policy. This contract comprises two parts: a insurance component which allows you to receive compensation and a assistance component which offers you advice and support when you're abroad.
Trip interruption cover can also be taken out as part of a cancellation insurance policy.
Whatever your contract, trip interruption cover allows you to be reimbursed for part of the costs incurred during your stay: transport, accommodation or even activities booked and paid for.
Of course, reimbursement is made on a pro rata basis for expenses already paid. All guarantees vary according to the insurance company. So be sure to ask before you leave. If your insurance contract doesn't cover this type of situation, you'll have to cover all the costs associated with your early return.
Air travel: how to obtain an emergency ticket?
To be able to return to your home country in a hurry, you'll need to get a plane ticket as quickly as possible. Start by consulting the website of the airport in the city where you're staying, or contact the airport staff directly. This will give you the times of the next flight to your home country.
Don't hesitate to contact the airline that handled your initial return flight.. Some companies offer "bereaved family rates". However, you may have to pay the cost of your plane ticket in advance. If you have taken out cancellation insurance, your insurance company will reimburse you once you have completed all the necessary formalities.
To facilitate your early return, ask your relatives in your country to send you the death certificate.
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