Emergency Services

Death of an American Citizen

When an American dies abroad, the consular officer notifies the next of kin or legal representative. The officer provides guidance on how to make arrangement for local burial or return of the body to the United States. In the event a citizen dies unattended, the consular officer will report the death to the Department of State and the next of kin and, when informed of the family's wishes, will make arrangements for disposition of remains and forwarding of personal effects. The State Department has no funds to assist in the return of ashes or remains of U.S. citizens who die abroad. In all cases, the death of an American citizen, whether resident or tourist, should be reported to the Consulate, so an official Report of Death can be completed.