How to get money if you are in a foreign country during an emergency

Find out how you can get money wired or obtain a loan in an emergency abroad from the U.S. State Department or a U.S. embassy. And find out how you can pay your loan back.

If you are outside the U.S. and need money in an emergency, there are many ways you can have money sent from a friend or family member. These include:

  • Bank transfer
  • Credit cards
  • Wire transfer

If these options are not possible, the U.S. Department of State may be able to help your friend or family member transfer the money. 

Learn how to get emergency financial assistance abroad.

How to get a repatriation loan from a U.S. Embassy

If you have no other way to get money, you may be able to get a temporary repatriation or evacuation loan through the U.S. Department of the State.

Look up and contact a U.S. Embassy or consulate to ask about evacuation and repatriation loans.

if you get a loan from the U.S. Departmene of State, you must repay it. Repayment options include your bank account, debit, or credit card through Pay.gov.

LAST UPDATED: March 31, 2026

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