Travel Arrangements

• Make your travel arrangements as soon as possible-prices spike the closer it gets to the departure date. By searching for a flight earlier you will have the option of browsing through various prices, dates, times and airlines.
• If you will be traveling with pets or plants it is extremely important that you schedule your flight in advance to ensure that there is availability.

• As soon as you arrive at your destination you should register with a nearby U.S. embassy or consulate. In the event that there is an emergency, this will help make your whereabouts known. Remember to bring your passport with you if registering in person.

• If you are an U.S. citizen that is moving abroad you are eligible to vote in all federal elections by submitting an absentee ballot. It is recommended to apply to vote as soon as possible and ensure that you meet the voter requirements.
• In the event that your states ballot does not arrive in time you should inquire about using a Federal Write-in Ballot (FWAB). You can obtain further information at the local U.S. embassy or consulate.

• Congratulations! If you have made the decision to get hitched abroad your first step is to locate a civil or religious official to perform the service.
• Inquire with U.S. consular officers overseas following your marriage to find out how to validate your foreign marriage document. If you would like to ensure that your marriage is legitimate in the U.S. as well, contact the Attorney General of your origin state in the U.S. for more information.
• Marriages that take place overseas are susceptible to the requirements and regulations of that particular country. Find out what these requirements include prior to the ceremony.

• If you are a U.S. citizen and give birth overseas, you should contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy to register your newborn as a citizen.
• After your child has received citizenship, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (Form FS-240) is prepared. This document qualifies as proof of citizenship for entering school or obtaining a passport.