FAQ / Q. What is the role of the Department of State assist in effecting service on a foreign government?

A. The Department of State, Overseas Citizens Services [formerly Special Consular Services, 22 CFR 93 (sic)], Office of Policy Review & Interagency Liaison is responsible for service under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) via the diplomatic channel in accordance with 28 U.S.C. Sec. 1608(a)(4) and implementing regulations (22 C.F.R. 93). In addition, the Department provides assistance under Sec. 1608(b) of the Act by providing information about service pursuant to a letter rogatory or applicable international convention on service. Service pursuant to the FSIA is a statutory obligation and provided the hierarchical methods of service set forth in Sec. 1608 have been followed, the U.S. consular officer has no discretion in complying with the Act. See 28 U.S.C. Section 1608(a)(4); H.R. Rep. No. 94-1487, 94th Cong., 2d Sess. (1976) reprinted in 1976 U.S. Code Cong. & Ad. News 6623; 22 C.F.R. Part 93.