American Citizen Services

Deaths of American Citizens

When an American citizen dies in Malaysia, the consular section of the American Embassy should be notified immediately. A consular officer will notify the next of kin and will help the family work with a local mortuary either to return the remains to the United States or to provide for local burial or cremation. Mortuary and related expenses can be very expensive and must be paid by the family of the deceased.

You should be aware that policies and procedures related to deaths in Malaysia, including those of American citizens, are governed by Malaysian law. Quite frequently an autopsy is required, and can delay release of the remains. Similarly, autopsy results may take several weeks or months, delaying official determination of the official cause of death. The Embassy's ability to influence or speed these official requirements and procedures is very limited. The Embassy can also prepare a Consular Report of Death Abroad based on the Malaysian death certificate. The Consular Report of Death is acceptable in any U.S. jurisdiction for the settlement of legal, financial, and estate matters. Next of kin of American citizens who die abroad can also contact the Bureau of Consular Affairs' Office of Overseas Citizens Services at the State Department in Washington, D.C. for assistance. The Overseas Citizens Services telephone number is (202) 647-5225.