Reports of Death

Consulate-Issued Reports of Death of an American Citizen Abroad:

A Report of Death of an American Citizen Abroad is a document prepared by the U.S. Consulate in English and is based upon a death certificate issued by a competent authority in China.  It can be used in U.S. courts to settle estate matters.  Individuals should apply for a Report of Death of an American Citizen Abroad at the Consulate that has jurisdiction over the area in which the death occurred. In order for the U.S. Consulate to issue a Report of Death of an American Citizen Abroad, the following documents must be presented: 

1. The death report from the local Exit Entry Administration office of the Public Security Bureau where the American citizen passed away.

2. The death certificate from the local hospital, with cause of death listed.

3. The cremation report from the funeral home (or other documentation relating to the disposition of remains if cremation is not applicable).

4. The American citizen’s U.S. passport.

5. The American citizen’s social security number.

6. The deceased’s last addresses in both China and the United States.

7. The names of any individuals who lived with or were traveling with the deceased at the time the death occurred.

The Consulate will provide next of kin up to 20 copies of the Report of Death of an American Citizen Abroad free of charge. 

Additional copies can be obtained subsequently by contacting the Department of State, Passport Services, Correspondence Branch, 1111 19th Street, N.W., Suite 510, Washington, D.C. 20522-1705, tel (202) 955-0307. Submit a signed, written request including all pertinent facts along with requester's return address and telephone number. Effective June 1, 2002, there is a $30 fee for a certified copy of Reports of Death, and a $20 fee for each additional copy provided at the same time. Fees are payable to the Department of State. For the most up to date contact information, please visit the Family Issues section of the State Department’s Travel Website: www.travel.state.gov.