Embassy of the United States

Official Documents

Report of Birth Abroad

A Consular Report of Birth for children born outside the United States can be prepared only at an American Consular Office overseas while the child is under the age of 18. Detailed information on applying for this document is available at this location.

If your child has claim to U.S. citizenship but is born in a foreign country, it is advisable that you apply for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, especially if you plan to apply for U.S. passport for the child. This Certificate is proof of your child’s U.S. citizenship.

Report of Death Abroad

When an American dies abroad, a Consular Officer notifies the American’s family and informs them about options and costs for disposition of remains. Costs for preparing and returning a body to the U.S. may be high and must be paid by the family. The Consular section also handles the personal estates of deceased U.S. citizens. Detailed information on getting copies of Reports of Death can be found at this location.