What is a US consulate?

While the United States has only one embassy and ambassador in the capital of a foreign country, it can have multiple consulates in large countries. They are usually located in the main provincial or state cities and are each headed by a consul general.

Consulates provide the same services and perform the same official functions as the embassy. The consulates follow the ambassador’s lead by engaging with local government, civil society and other organizations to address the mission’s priorities. In many cases, due to their location within a country, consulates can act as a key player in achieving one priority or another. So while the embassy may attach great importance to agricultural development, the real work with the local population is done by officials in a consulate.

Consulates provide passports, birth registration, and many other services to visiting or resident American citizens. They also have consular departments that issue visas for foreign citizens to visit, study, and work in the United States. Consulates work with US and foreign law enforcement agencies to fight international crime.

In coordination with the embassy, ​​a consulate conducts trade, information, education and exchange programs to develop business partners and potential customers for US companies, works with the media and public bodies to explain US policy, and promotes academic, scientific and artistic exchange. They often have reference centers where foreign citizens can learn about the United States through print and online media.