Law enforcement agencies should adhere to the guidance provided by the U.S. Department of State concerning consular notification and access based on treaty obligations. Adherence to these obligations helps foreign governments provide assistance to foreign nationals arrested in the United States and helps the U.S. government protect U.S. citizens abroad. Agencies should ensure that all foreign nationals are treated with respect and provided with immunities under international law where applicable.

This document contains instruction and guidance on consular notifications and access required upon the arrest, detention, or death of foreign nationals.

03/2025 Update:  In addition to this guidance, please reference the IACP's Immigration Policy Fact Sheet, IACP's Immigration Enforcement Addendum, and the U.S. Department of State Consular Notification and Access Manual located below. 

IACP Immigration Policy Fact Sheet

IACP Immigration Enforcement Addendum

U.S. Department of State Consular Notification and Access Manual 

This topic has been archived - it is intended for reference purposes only and will not be updated.