DEATH OF A FRIEND OR LOVED ONE OVERSEAS

Facing the death of a friend or loved one is difficult under any circumstances, let alone when it occurs in a foreign country. Since a majority of Americans living in Costa Rica are middle aged or seniors it is advisable that they know what procedures to follow if their spouse or a friend passes away.

First, you should contact the U.S. Embassy to report the death of an American citizen. If necessary, they will contact family members hold valuables for the family, will act as a liaison to help the family make funeral and or creation arrangements and help with repatriation of the body (this cost is covered by the government if the deceased was an active member of the military, if so desired. They will also issue a Certificate of Death Abroad, an official copy of which is sent to the State department in Washington, D.C. This document may be important for both insurance, tax and probate purposes.

By calling the U.S. embassy at 220-3050 you can find out additional information.