The American Citizen Services Unit (ACS) of the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait will assist family and friends in the event of the death of a private U.S. citizen in Kuwait.
The Embassy should be notified as soon as possible of the death of a U.S. citizen by calling 2259-1001.
Even if no assistance is needed in making local funeral arrangements, the death of a U.S. citizen, whether resident or tourist in Kuwait, should be reported to ACS so that a Consular Report of Death of a U.S. Citizen Abroad (CRODA) can be issued. Copies of this report are provided to the next-of-kin or legal representative to settle legal and estate matters in the United States. ACS staff members can issue up to 20 copies of the report to the next-of-kin.
While we recognize the days following the loss of a loved one can be difficult, it is necessary to make timely decisions regarding the disposition of the remains of the deceased. The family or legal representative (usually the sponsoring company) is responsible for the arrangement and payment of all funeral home charges, shipping costs for the remains, and costs associated with the shipment of any personal effects. Please note that the facilities and standards for mortuary-related services are vastly different from those in the United States.
As soon as possible, the legal representative (next-of-kin, friend, or company representative) must bring the original U.S. passport of the deceased to the Embassy to receive the three authorization letters required by the Kuwaiti authorities to begin processing:
- A letter to the investigator’s officer requesting the issuance of the burial permit;
- A letter to the Forensic Medicine Department requesting the release of the remains and any personal items of the deceased to the legal representative (the original letter will be needed for follow up visits); and
- A letter to the Ministry of Heath requesting the issuance of the death certificate.
Please click “Processes and Next Steps” to review additional information.
