Emergency Services
Arrests of U.S. Citizens
The Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires provide assistance to U.S. citizens arrested and incarcerated abroad within the limits of our authority under international Law.
A U.S. consular officer cannot get you out of jail, since you are subject to Argentina's laws, but we can monitor your condition in incarceration.
If you are arrested, insist the authorities notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. They are obligated to notify a US consular officer of your arrest unless you ask them to. In limited circumstances, consular officers can serve as liaison between you and your family. We will provide you with a list of local attorneys and we can coordinate the transfer of money from your family or friends to pay attorneys fees and for your upkeep. If you are imprisoned for a lengthy period, a consular officer will visit you periodically, at least once every three to four months.