Public Services

Welfare and Whereabouts of American Citizens

If requested, the Consular Section will make every effort to locate and pass messages to American citizens who are believed to be in Syria. This is generally done at the request of a family member in the United States. Inquirers should be aware, however, that the Privacy Act of 1974 prevents the divulging of any information regarding another U.S. citizen unless that person has given his/her express authority to do so. In cases where the subject of an inquiry does not give his/her authorization to divulge information concerning his/her whereabouts, the person will be advised of the inquiry and asked to contact directly the family or friends concerned.

Welfare and whereabouts requests are occasionally made on behalf of minor children by divorced or separated parents. A consular officer cannot take sides in custody disputes or assist one parent or another to secure custody of children. A consular officer can attempt to locate children if so requested, and can transmit information regarding the child's health and well-being to either parent.