United States Department of State — Emergency Help for U.S. Citizens Abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling or living overseas and experience a serious emergency, the U.S. Department of State and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate can provide guidance and limited assistance. In urgent situations, calling is usually the fastest option.

24/7 Emergency Phone Numbers (Overseas Citizens Services)

  • From the U.S. or Canada: 1 (888) 407-4747
  • From overseas: +1 (202) 501-4444

These numbers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays.

Contacting a U.S. Embassy or Consulate

For local, on-the-ground assistance, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, specifically the American Citizen Services (ACS) unit.

  • Embassy and consulate websites list emergency after-hours phone numbers
  • They also list local ACS email addresses for non-urgent matters
  • Find any U.S. embassy or consulate worldwide at:
    https://www.usembassy.gov

Situations They Can Help With

  • Arrest, detention, or serious legal trouble
  • Being the victim of a crime
  • Medical emergencies or hospitalization
  • Death of a U.S. citizen abroad
  • Missing U.S. citizens
  • Lost or stolen passport when immediate travel is required
  • Natural disasters, civil unrest, or evacuation situations

Emergency Financial Help While Abroad

If you run out of money overseas, the Department of State’s first recommendation is to contact family, friends, or an employer to send funds directly.

Money Transfers From Family or Friends

  • International money transfer services (such as Western Union or MoneyGram)
  • Deposits into your U.S. bank account followed by ATM withdrawal abroad
  • Transfers to a foreign bank account (may be slower)

Repatriation Loans — Help Getting Home

In certain cases, if you are a U.S. citizen who is destitute or otherwise unable to return to the United States, a U.S. embassy or consulate may help you apply for a repatriation loan.

These loans may cover transportation back to the U.S. and limited temporary expenses necessary to make the return possible.

Important: A repatriation loan is a loan, not a grant. You are legally required to repay it, and your U.S. passport may be restricted until the loan is paid in full.

Mental Health Emergencies Abroad

If you experience a mental health crisis abroad — including severe anxiety, depression, mania, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, or feeling unsafe — treat it as a medical emergency.

  • If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services first
  • Then contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance and support
  • Embassies can help locate local mental health providers and hospitals
  • With your permission, they can assist in notifying family or trusted contacts

U.S. embassies and consulates do not provide medical treatment themselves, but they can help you understand local options and procedures.

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Enrollment allows the Department of State to send safety alerts and contact you during emergencies.

Sign up at:
https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step

What to Save Before You Travel

  • Emergency phone numbers: 1 (888) 407-4747 and +1 (202) 501-4444
  • The website for your destination’s U.S. embassy or consulate
  • Copies of your passport, insurance, and emergency contacts
  • A brief plan if you have known medical or mental health needs

In any serious overseas emergency, contacting the U.S. Department of State or your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate should be one of your first steps.