In the context of consular protection and assistance, the Consulate intervenes in numerous situations involving Italian citizens who are permanent residents or temporarily abroad and who face legal issues, are involved in accidents, require repatriation, or are victims of international child abduction.
Accidents and Medical Emergencies
In the event of an accident abroad, the Consulate ensures that the citizen receives appropriate medical care, that family members are informed, and that all necessary support is provided for a potential return to Italy.
Arrests Abroad
If an Italian citizen is arrested abroad, the Consulate may:
• conduct consular visits;
• suggest a local attorney;
• maintain contact with the detainee’s family in Italy;
• ensure, when necessary and allowed by local law, the provision of medical aid, food, books, and newspapers;
• assist with requests for transfer to Italy, under the terms of the Strasbourg Convention or specific bilateral agreements;
• in special cases, support clemency applications on humanitarian grounds.
The Consulate cannot:
• represent citizens in legal proceedings;
• pay legal fees on behalf of the detainee.
Download the Practical Guide for Detainees Abroad
International Child Abduction
The issue of international child abduction has become increasingly relevant due to the growing number of cross-national separations and divorces, often involving dual-nationality parents.
The main legal instrument available to the Italian parent is the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. The Italian Central Authority is the Juvenile Justice Department of the Ministry of Justice.
Where the Convention is not applicable, the Ministry assesses each case individually, tailoring its interventions to the specific circumstances.
For further information see attached Guide
Tracing Italian nationals abroad
In compliance with Italian data protection law (Law 675/96), no public authority may disclose personal information to private individuals without the express consent of the person concerned.
Once the individual is located, the Consulate will request their authorization before sharing any details with the requesting party.
Note: in the United States, local authorities do not release information about private individuals due to strict privacy regulations.