Emergency Services
Arrest of An American Citizen
While traveling or residing in Afghanistan, American citizens are required to abide by Afghan laws. If an American citizen violates Afghan law during their time in the country, they are susceptible to prosecution. If an American is arrested in Afghanistan, someone from the Embassy will visit that person to verify his/her well-being, to facilitate communication with family members, and to assist the citizen in obtaining legal representation. The Embassy may not/can not pay for legal representation. If your American friend or relative has been arrested while you are traveling in Afghanistan, please contact the U.S. Embassy at +93-(0)700-10-8001/8002 or +93-(0)700-20-1908.
The Embassy’s role in an arrest is to ensure that: 1) the arrestee is accorded right and privileges as guaranteed under the laws of Afghanistan as they apply to Afghan nationals; 2) the arrestee knows the specific charges against him/her and is given reasonably prompt opportunity for defense; and 3) the arrestee is not mistreated while in jail or out on bail. When the Embassy learns of an arrest, a consular representative visits the American in jail as soon as possible, provides a list of local attorneys, and offers to assist in notifying and/or obtaining funds from relatives.
The Embassy cannot demand or obtain the release of a prisoner. A U.S. passport does not entitle its bearer to any special privileges in local courts. While in Afghanistan, an American citizen is subject to Afghan law, just as an Afghan in the United States is subject to American law. The Embassy makes every effort to ensure that arrested or jailed Americans receive humane treatment from local authorities, and that legal and other needs are met.