How Do Repatriation Benefits Work for Foreign Workers and Their Employers in Canada?
You’ve invested time and money into building a reliable workforce in Canada. These workers aren’t just employees – they’ve become valuable team members who have travelled thousands of miles to help your business succeed.
But what if the unthinkable happens? And what if you need to act quickly to protect the dignity of those involved – as well as your company?
Without repatriation coverage, you could face costs upwards of tens of thousands of dollars, complex international regulations, and supporting a grieving family across borders – all while trying to keep your business running.
That’s why you need to fully understand what repatriation benefits for foreign workers in Canada entail – and how to get the best protection for everyone in your business.
What Are Repatriation Benefits?
Repatriation benefits are a safety net for both employers and foreign workers’ families.
The Foreign Workers Canada Health Plan (FWCHP) covers everything from initial documentation to final transportation arrangements, so the process is dignified and professional during a very difficult time.
Many employers don’t realize that basic health coverage excludes repatriation costs and leaves them with financial and logistical headaches. FWCHP’s repatriation coverage protects you from those costs and ensures your workers’ families get the support they need.
The Step-by-Step Repatriation Process
Should the unthinkable happen, you need to know that you’re protected by your repatriation benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide for what you should do the moment you are notified of a tragedy.
Step 1: Handle The Initial Notifications
The first 24 hours are critical. Quick, coordinated action ensures proper protocols are followed, and families receive timely support.
Notify Appropriate Authorities
Proper documentation begins with official notification. Your first responsibility is to ensure all relevant parties are informed.
Contact local law enforcement if death occurred outside a healthcare facility
Notify the attending physician or coroner for the death certificate
Contact workplace safety authorities if work-related
Family Communication
Breaking devastating news requires sensitivity and cultural awareness. Having proper support ensures clear, compassionate communication.
Contact the designated emergency contact
Work with the consulate or Employment Agency if needed
Arrange for a translator if required
Provide FWCHP policy information
Insurance Notification
Prompt notification activates crucial support services. That’s why FWCHP begins coordination while guiding you through the next steps.
Contact FWCHP's 24/7 emergency line
Request necessary claim forms
Start documentation gathering
Receive immediate guidance
Step 2: Complete All Proper & Necessary Documentation
International repatriation requires specific documentation to satisfy various regulations. Early preparation prevents delays – and can make the entire difficult process much smoother.
Gather & Complete Your Essential Documents
Each document serves a specific legal purpose and must be properly prepared. These include:
Death certificate with cause of death
English or French translations, if needed
Employer's Statement
Claimant's Statement
Signed beneficiary form
Transportation Requirements
International transport has strict documentation needs – so make sure that you are following protocol closely and handling the proper documentation for transferring a deceased person:
Container certification
Export permits
Transportation declarations
Quarantine clearance, if required
Step 3: Handle The Arrangements
International repatriation involves multiple parties across different countries – a process that can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why the team at WCHP manages this complex process from start to finish.
Funeral Home Coordination
Proper coordination ensures dignified, compliant handling. Here are some of the key steps involved in funeral home coordination:
Select an experienced international funeral home
Arrange appropriate preservation
Secure proper container
Coordinate with receiving funeral home
Transportation Management
FWCHP handles all logistics and compliance for transportation, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed.
Arrange international transport
Meet airline requirements
Process customs documentation
Coordinate between parties
Step 4: Complete & Confirm All Payment Processing
During a time of tragedy, nobody wants to think about payments for services. However, the sooner you can handle payment processing, the better. Quick financial support for families is essential to show that you care – and FWCHP ensures secure, efficient processing.
Payment Options
There are several flexible methods to accommodate various circumstances.
International wire transfers
Secured courier checks
Local currency where available
Support Services
Processing cross-border payments can get tricky. FWCHP offers complete assistance with payment logistics and will guide you through any obstacles, including:
Banking documentation
Tax requirements
Payment tracking
Issue resolution
When Tragedy Strikes, Be Prepared
Don't wait for a crisis to evaluate your repatriation coverage. As an employer, you have the opportunity to ensure your foreign workers and their families have the protection they deserve. FWCHP's comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind for both you and your employees, while our experienced team stands ready to guide you through every step of the process.
Contact our dedicated team today to:
Review your current coverage
Update your emergency procedures
Ensure complete documentation
Access our 24/7 support system
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Your foreign workers trust you with their livelihoods – we'll help you protect their families' peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Contact your insurance provider for these essential documents:
Employer's Statement (completed by employer)
Claimant's Statement (completed by beneficiary)
Proof of Death (Death Certificate) from attending physician or funeral home
Employee Enrolment Form/Beneficiary Form from employer records
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Description text goes hereFWCHP offers two secure payment methods:
Check mailed directly to beneficiary's home address
Wire transfer to beneficiary's bank account in their home country
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The funeral home manages all transportation arrangements, working directly with FWCHP to ensure proper handling and compliance with international regulations.
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FWCHP's repatriation benefit covers all funeral home costs, including:
Local funeral home services
International transportation
Required documentation
Receiving funeral home coordination
Looking to provide your foreign workers with the necessary healthcare coverage?
Click through the video below to learn about the FWCHP.
