Consular Reports Of Birth, Death, And Marriage On File With The Department Of State
Definitions
Consular Report of Birth Abroad
A document issued by an American embassy or consulate reflecting the facts of a birth abroad of a child acquiring U.S. citizenship at birth through one or both parents. This record, also known as an FS-240, along with the Certification of Birth, DS-1350, are acceptable as proof of birth and U.S. citizenship for all legal purposes.
Report of the Death of an American Citizen
A document issued by an American embassy or consulate reflecting the facts of a death abroad of an American citizen. The document is based upon the local death certificate.
Certificate of Witness to Marriage
A document issued by an American embassy or consulate reflecting the facts of a marriage abroad in which at least one party is an American Citizen. A consular officer must have attended the ceremony. This accommodation was discontinued in 1987.
How to Apply for a Certified Copy of One of These Reports
Submit a signed, written request including all pertinent facts of the occasion along with requester's return address and telephone number. Only the subject, parent, or legal guardian may request a birth record. If the request is for an FS-240, the original FS-240 or a notarized affidavit attesting to its disposition must be included with the request. If a birth record is to be amended or corrected, appropriate certified documents supporting the request must be included.
Where to Write
U.S. Department of State
Passport Services
Vital Records Section
1111 19th St., NW, Suite 510
Washington, D.C. 20524
Cost
$40.00 for one copy FS-240.
$20.00 for first copy and $10.00 for each additional copy for DS-1350, Report of Death, Certificate of Witness to Marriage and Certificate of No Record.
Turnaround Time
Unlike passport agencies which receive all of the documentation needed from the applicant, most consular vital records must be retrieved from off site repositories, including the National Archives. Since the time required to retrieve these records varies significantly based upon the type of record and date of occurrence, it is impossible to give a definite turnaround time. However, most cases can be completed between four and eight weeks.
Expedite Service
Overnight delivery can save about ten days processing time, but there is no way to reduce the retrieval time. Overnight return via Federal Express is available for an additional $10.00 or the requester may provide a pre-paid air bill for the carrier of choice.
Additional Information
The Vital Records Section can be reached at (202) 955-0307. A clerk or caseworker will be pleased to assist you.
CONSULAR VITAL RECORD SEARCH REQUEST FORM (download)
