b. Reports of Birth

Most children born abroad to a U.S. Citizen parent or parents may acquire U.S. citizenship at birth. The American citizen parent must meet certain residency requirements in the U.S. to transmit citizenship.

As soon as possible after the birth, the U.S. citizen parent should contact the Consular Section in La Paz or the Consular Agencies in Cochabamba or in Santa Cruz in order to register the child.

Upon presentation of required documentation and determination that the child has acquired U.S. citizenship, a consular officer prepares a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.  This document is recognized by U.S. law as proof of acquisition of U.S. citizenship and is acceptable evidence of citizenship for obtaining a passport.

The American Citizen Services Unit has an appointment system for all non-emergency services, including passport renewals (and passport extra pages), birth registrations, notarial services, federal benefits and general inquiries. Anyone requesting American Citizen Services must make an appointment in advance for services rendered in this unit.

Only customers with appointments will be admitted into the Consular Section for all non-emergency matters.

To make an appointment, click here.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:   EVERYONE coming to the U.S. Embassy needs to have an appointment, regardless of whether you are the American citizen seeking the service or whether you accompanying an American citizen.  To apply for a Report of Birth Abroad, both parents and the child need an appointment. Only the names listed on the appointment list will be allowed to enter the Embassy.

For information about application and requirements for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad please review the following link  http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/living/living_5497.html