After a loss
When someone dies abroad
The US embassy can help, but it can't pay for anything.
Current as of October 2026. Laws and figures can change — see full disclaimer.
When a US citizen dies in another country, the nearest US embassy or consulate is usually involved. Local laws, languages and costs can make the next steps complicated, so knowing who does what helps.
What the US government usually does
- Tells the next of kin, if local authorities haven't already
- Explains the options and local requirements for burial, cremation or bringing the person home
- Provides a list of local funeral homes and English-speaking lawyers
- Issues a Consular Report of Death of a US Citizen Abroad, which is used in US legal matters like probate and insurance
- Helps the family send money for costs
The embassy can't pay for funeral costs or bringing the person home. Those are the family's responsibility.
The main options
- Bringing the person home. This can be expensive, and it involves international transport, embalming and paperwork from both countries.
- Cremation abroad, then bringing the ashes home. Usually far cheaper and simpler, where local law and religion allow it.
- Burial in the country where they died. Some families choose this, especially if the person lived there.
Insurance that can help
Some travel insurance policies cover repatriation, meaning bringing someone home after a death. Credit cards used to book the trip sometimes include travel coverage too. Most US health insurance and Medicare don't cover it.
Who to call
Families in the US can call the State Department's Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. From overseas, the number is +1-202-501-4444.
A death abroad may need a certified, translated copy of the local death certificate, as well as the Consular Report of Death. Asking the embassy for several copies of the report is common.
- State Dept., calling from the US: 1-888-407-4747
- State Dept., calling from overseas: +1-202-501-4444
- Last verified: October 2026 against travel.state.gov