Section 121-A. Proof of dependency in foreign countries  


Latest version.
  • In cases involving
      the dependency of aliens residing in foreign countries,  transcripts  of
      birth or marriage certificates, also documents and affidavits, certified
      by  a  local  official  or local magistrate and authenticated as to such
      official or magistrate by the  secretary  of  state  or  other  official
      having  charge  of  foreign  affairs, or a United States consul, in said
      foreign country, may be received in evidence,  but  in  all  such  cases
      proof of present existence and of dependency may be made by the personal
      appearance   of  each  and  all  persons  claiming  relationship  to  or
      dependence upon a deceased  worker  under  the  provisions  of  sections
      sixteen  and  seventeen of this chapter, before a diplomatic or consular
      officer of the  United  States,  and  statements  made  to  or  evidence
      presented  before  such diplomatic or consular officer under oath may be
      received in evidence in whole or in part by  the  board  upon  any  such
      claim.  Questions  regarding  admissibility  and  adequacy  of  evidence
      arising in connection  with  proceedings  before  the  consul  shall  be
      determined  by the board. The board may by rule prescribe the conditions
      under which proofs other than personal appearance before a diplomatic or
      consular officer of the United States may be accepted as  proof  of  the
      facts of existence, relationship and dependency.