International medical repatriation, step by step

Reviewed by the AirAmbulance.org editorial team · Updated 20 October 2026 · Editorial policy

Medical repatriation brings an ill or injured person home from abroad, by air ambulance or with a medical escort on a commercial flight. Here is how it works and what to prepare.

The steps

• Get a current medical report from the treating doctor, and ask whether the patient is fit to fly.
• Call the travel insurer or assistance company first: many arrange and pay for repatriation directly.
• Decide the transport: air ambulance for stretcher or critical-care patients, medical escort for stable patients.
• Line up a receiving hospital or care at home, with a doctor who accepts the patient.
• Prepare documents: passports, visas if needed, insurance details and medical records.
• Confirm ground ambulances at both ends and who travels with the patient.

Questions to ask a provider

• Is the quote bed to bed, including both ground ambulances?
• What medical crew and equipment will be on board?
• How long does it take to arrange, and what could delay it?
• What payment is needed upfront, and what if the insurer pays later?

General information only, not medical, legal or insurance advice. Rules, coverage and prices change; confirm with your provider and insurer.