Families in Canada wishing to transport the ashes of a deceased loved one to India can now follow a clear and formal process through the Consulate General of India in Toronto. The Consulate issues a No Objection Certificate (NOC), which is required for sending cremated remains to India.
Applicants must first gather essential documents. These include a completed Registration of Death Form for Indian passport holders, the NOC application proforma, and the original and a copy of the Death Certificate issued by provincial authorities. Ontario residents must include Form 16. The cremation certificate and a copy, along with a certificate of packing detailing the deceased’s name, age, date, time and cause of death, and package contents, are also required. The deceased’s original passport and a copy, as well as the passport information of the person transporting the ashes, must be provided. Fees are payable via debit card or demand draft to the Consulate. All application fields must be completed.
Applications can be submitted in person at the Consulate from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding holidays. Those living outside the Greater Toronto Area may apply by post, including a pre-paid return envelope for the attested NOC.
After receiving the NOC, applicants must complete additional clearance through India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare using the e-clearance portal before transport.
This process ensures families comply with Indian regulations while providing a structured, transparent method for returning loved ones’ ashes to India.
