USA Guide
Knowing who to call and what to do in an emergency reduces panic when it matters most. Save these numbers and contacts before you need them, not after.
Dial 911 for any life-threatening emergency: fire, medical crisis or crime in progress. Most cities also have a separate non-emergency police number for issues that do not need an immediate response, such as reporting a past theft. Save both numbers, along with your building address, since operators will ask for your location right away.
The Pakistani embassy in Washington, DC, and consulates in major cities can assist with lost or stolen passports, emergency travel documents, and connecting with family during a crisis. They generally cannot pay medical bills or legal fees, but they can guide you to appropriate local resources. Register your contact details with the nearest consulate after arrival if you plan a long stay.
Emergency room visits in the US can be very expensive without insurance, sometimes running into thousands of dollars for a single visit, so confirm your insurance coverage and nearest in-network hospital soon after arrival. For non-urgent issues, urgent care clinics are usually faster and cheaper than an emergency room. General safety practices, being aware of surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure, apply in the US as in any country.
Common questions
File a police report if theft is suspected, then contact the nearest Pakistani embassy or consulate to apply for an emergency travel document or replacement passport. Keep a photocopy or photo of your passport and visa details stored separately to speed up the replacement process.
Call 911 for genuine emergencies such as chest pain, severe injury or difficulty breathing. Ambulance rides in the US can be costly even with insurance, so for non-urgent issues consider urgent care or a telehealth line if you are unsure whether the situation is a true emergency.
Search the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs or embassy website for the current list of Pakistani consulates in the US, since coverage areas and contact details can change. Save the number for the consulate covering your state before you need it.
