4211. Notification to Foreign Consulates

Applies To: This policy applies to caseworkers. 

Policy Number & Title:  4211. Notification to Foreign Consulates

Effective Date:  July 1, 2024


Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to verify foreign consulates are notified when a child or youth who is the citizen of another country becomes the focus of a dependency proceeding. This policy is not to be interpreted as a check on immigration status of any member of a family but rather citizenship of a country outside the United States.

Authority

Chapter XXIII, Vol. 2, Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties between States and International Organization of between International Organizations Vienna, March 21, 1986.

Policy

Caseworkers must: 

  1. Assess the citizenship of a foreign country of a child or youth when the child or youth is placed in out-of-home care in a dependency proceeding.
  2. Provide notice, under federal treaty obligations, to the foreign consulate when obtaining legal custody of a child or youth who is a foreign national.
  3. Provide access to interpreters and culturally relevant services to Limited English Proficient (LEP) clients from certified or authorized contracted translators as listed in the provisions of DCYF Administrative 6.02 Access to Services for Clients and Caregivers who are Limited English Proficient (LEP) policy.

Resources

Notification to Foreign Consulates procedures (Located in the DCYF Policies & Rules Office SharePoint)


Original Date:   June 7, 2012

Revised Date:   July 1, 2024

Review Date:   July 31, 2028

Approved by:  Natalie Green, Assistant Secretary for Child Welfare Division