Losing a loved one is never easy, and when the loss occurs abroad, it can present unique challenges for families trying to settle the estate. One of the most critical documents for handling a deceased loved one’s affairs is their death certificate. This document is essential for everything from probate and estate administration to accessing financial accounts and insurance policies.

As an experienced attorney specializing in estate planning and administration, I’ve guided numerous families through the complexities of obtaining U.S. death certificates for loved ones who passed away overseas. Here’s what you need to know to streamline the process and ensure that your loved one’s wishes are honored.

Step 1: Notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate

If a U.S. citizen dies abroad, the first step is to report the death to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The embassy will work with local authorities to document the death and issue a Consular Report of Death Abroad (CRDA). This document serves as an official record and is often recognized by U.S. institutions as equivalent to a death certificate.

Step 2: Obtain the Local Death Certificate

The local death certificate is issued by the country where the death occurred. To obtain this document, you may need to provide:

Proof of your relationship to the deceased (e.g., marriage certificate or birth certificate).
Identification documents (e.g., passport or government-issued ID).
Any documentation requested by local authorities.

Some countries require the assistance of a translator or legal representative to complete this process.

Step 3: Request the Consular Report of Death Abroad

The CRDA is not automatically issued; you will need to apply for it through the U.S. embassy. To do so, provide:

The local death certificate (translated, if necessary).
Proof of the deceased’s U.S. citizenship (e.g., a copy of their passport).
A completed application form and any required fees.

The embassy will retain copies of the CRDA for 20 years, allowing family members to request additional copies if needed.

Step 4: Utilize the Documents for Estate Administration

Once you have the necessary death certificates, you can use them to initiate probate and estate administration. This process may include:

Filing for probate in the state where the deceased resided.
Handling ancillary estates if the deceased owned property in another state or country.
Administering trusts to ensure beneficiaries receive their inheritances.

This can quickly become overwhelming, especially when dealing with multiple jurisdictions. That’s where legal expertise becomes invaluable.

Why You Need Expert Guidance for Probate and Administration

Settling an estate with international elements requires specialized knowledge of U.S. and foreign laws. At The Law Office of Barry E. Janay, P.C., our team has over 20 years of experience navigating these complexities. We provide comprehensive services in probate, trust administration, and ancillary estates.

As a leader in estate administration, I have successfully opened estates for clients facing unique challenges, including overseas deaths and wrongful death claims. I approach each case with compassion and creativity to provide tailored solutions that honor your loved one’s legacy.

How We Can Help

If you’re managing the estate of a loved one who died abroad, our firm is here to guide you through the process. We can:

Help you obtain local and U.S. death certificates.
Streamline probate proceedings across multiple jurisdictions.
Assist with trust administration and asset distribution.
Navigate ancillary estate administration for out-of-state or international property.

Whether you need assistance with complex legal requirements or emotional support during a difficult time, you can count on us for reliable, compassionate service.

Contact Us Today

Losing a loved one abroad is challenging enough—don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Let our team, led by trusted experts like Rachel Walker, Esq., provide the guidance and support you need.

Schedule a consultation with The Law Office of Barry E. Janay, P.C. today to ensure your loved one’s affairs are handled with care and professionalism.

About Rachel Walker, Esq.
Rachel Walker is an experienced attorney with a focus on estate planning, probate, and trust administration. Her compassionate approach and deep understanding of international estate issues make her a trusted advocate for families during their most challenging times. She has successfully represented clients in securing judgments and opening estates for complex cases, including wrongful death litigations related to Camp Lejeune.

Ready to get started? Schedule a consultation.