If you are a U.S. citizen and have been arrested or detained in the Marshall Islands, please contact the U.S Embassy in Majuro at +692 247-4011 or MAJConsular@state.gov.

U.S. citizens in the Marshall Islands are fully subject to Marshallese laws and procedures. U.S. citizens arrested or detained in the Marshall Islands have the right to communicate with a Consular Officer from the U.S. Embassy. Such communication allows the Embassy to monitor a detainee’s general welfare and ensure, as far as possible, that individual rights under local law are observed and proper treatment is accorded under internationally accepted standards. In addition, the Embassy, upon request, can facilitate communication with family and friends, provide a list of attorneys, and assist in arranging the transfer of personal funds from the U.S. to pay legal or other costs.

Please be aware that a Consular Officer cannot arrange for the release of anyone or act as an attorney. Equally, a Consular Officer cannot act as a personal representative when dealing with Marshallese prison authorities. The U.S. Government will not provide bail money or pay attorneys’ fees. Detainees who wish to raise an issue with prison authorities should follow appropriate channels within the institution.

The Embassy strongly suggests that detainees obtain the services of an attorney. Information about attorneys in the Republic of the Marshall Islands is available here. While there are similarities in Marshallese and American approaches to legal, customs, and immigration questions, the structures and procedures of the Marshallese judicial and law enforcement systems can be quite different

In all communications with the Consular Officer, the right to privacy is protected by U.S. law under the Privacy Act. The information provided will not be released to anyone unless specifically authorized with a Privacy Act Waiver. Waivers are available from the Embassy upon request.