United States Citizens Abroad Vital Records

United States Vital Records  Citizens Abroad

Learn how to find birth, marriage or death documentation records for United States citizens when the vital records event occurred in a foreign country, or on the high seas.

Births
Prior to 2011. Researchers may be able to document the birth of a person born to United States civilian citizens abroad using a Certification of Birth Report (DS-1350)  issued by the United States embassy or consular office nearest the place where the birth occurred.

Starting 2011. On 3 January, 2011 the Department of State began issuing a new Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240). All previously issued DS-1350 are still valid for proof of identity, citizenship and other legal purposes.

Marriages
Document the marriage of a civilian United States citizen abroad using a Certificate of Witness to Marriage. "Report of the Death of an American Citizen Prior to November 1, 1990 these documents were called a "Consular Report of Birth, Marriage, or Death."

If a person was a member of the Armed Forces, write to the Secretary of Defense; Washington, DC 20301.

If the person was a member of the Coast Guard, contact the Commandant, P.S., U.S. Coast Guard, Washington, DC 20226.

If the Birth or death occurred on the high seas while the vessel or aircraft was outbound from the U.S. or at a foreign port, write to the U.S. Department of State, Washington, DC 205520.

If the vessel was inbound and first docked in the U.S. after the event occurred, write to the Bureau of Vital Records for the State where it arrived.

To obtain copies

Department of State


 * Passport Vital Records Section
 * 1150 Passport Services PL
 * 6th Floor

Department of State information on Birth, Marriage, and Death