Knowing how to contact the US Consulate or Embassy while traveling abroad is important in case of emergencies. They can assist with legal disputes, illness, and injury, but not with financial problems or obtaining visas. Research their contact information before traveling.
While it’s best to do everything in your power to avoid legal trouble while traveling abroad, it’s important to know what to do if you find yourself arrested or detained by foreign officials. Almost every foreign country has a US consulate or US embassy. These offices are intended to assist or simply advise American travelers while abroad.
The Consulate has a branch called the Citizens Emergency Center that assists Americans who find themselves in emergencies while abroad. If, for example, you have the most unfortunate circumstances of being injured, seriously ill or the victim of a crime while abroad, this office can help you.
It is important to know how to contact your Consulate while traveling abroad. Before setting off on your trip, do a little research to find out where your Consulate is located in each country you intend to visit. Be sure to write down their contact information and keep it with you at all times. Simply printing out the information and keeping it in your wallet or purse is a great idea. This government website has links to all US embassies or consulates around the world: http://usembassy.state.gov. From this site you can access the websites of each consulate and locate their contact information.
While you can get help through these offices, there are some things the Consulate can’t help you with. Below, you will find two lists. The first includes the things a Consulate can help you with. The second is a list of things the Consulate will not be able to assist you with.
A US embassy or consulate can help you if:
Have a legal dispute with the local government.
They are held by the local government.
They are being prosecuted by the local government and require assistance to protect your human rights.
You become ill or injured and need assistance in finding adequate medical care and/or returning home.
An embassy or consulate cannot help you if:
They are arguing with your airline.
Are you having financial problems while abroad.
You want to obtain a work permit, visa or any type of license in the country you are visiting.
We hope this information is irrelevant to your next trip abroad. But protecting yourself with information is one of the best ways to stay safe and protect yourself and your interests while you travel.
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