Welfare / Whereabouts

Finding a U.S. Citizen in Libya

If requested in an emergency, the Consular Section will attempt to locate Americans who are believed to be in Libya and are not in communication with family or friends. Inquirers should be aware, however, that the Privacy Act prevents divulgence of information unless the subject of the inquiry gives his/her permission. If s/he does not give such permission, the Consular Section's only alternative after the individual has been located is to inform him or her that relatives or others are concerned and ask him or her to communicate directly.

Occasionally, welfare-whereabouts requests are made on behalf of minor children by a parent following a divorce or separation. The U.S. Embassy cannot take sides in such a dispute. The Consular Section will, however, attempt to locate children, if requested, and can transmit information to either parent regarding the child's health and well-being.

We maintain no comprehensive listing of Americans in Libya, though many Americans voluntarily register with the U.S. Embassy. If you are asking us to attempt to locate an American, our chances of success are greatly enhanced if you can provide his/her full name, date of birth and any recent contact information you may have for him/her in Libya.

The U.S. Embassy cannot send, forward, or receive mail on behalf of American citizens.