Skip to content

Consular Services

Consular services are the help a government gives its own citizens abroad, along with the travel documents it issues. They cover passports, visas, including those for foreign officials, emergency aid for people stranded overseas, and travel warnings. The State Department runs these services through embassies and consulates around the world.

People usually ask how to get, renew, replace, or change a passport, how long it takes, and what it costs. They also ask what to do when a passport is lost or stolen abroad, how travel advisories work, and what the government will do for citizens caught in an emergency overseas.

27articles
October 1last updated

An independent team explaining how government works

GovFacts is a nonpartisan site that makes government concepts, policies and programs easier to understand and use.

Referenced by Brookings, CNN, Forbes, Fox News, Pew Research, Snopes, The Hill and USA Today.

The Webby-recognized AI behind our articles »

Latest in Consular Services

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

About the A-1 Diplomatic Visa for Foreign Officials

The United States immigration system includes a category of non-immigrant visas known as A-visas. These are reserved exclusively for ambassadors, diplomats, foreign government officials, and their…

All Articles on Consular Services

US Passport Benefits and Obligations

The United States passport is one of the most recognized and sought-after travel documents in the world. For millions of Americans, it's a symbol…

33 Min Read

The Family Passport Guide

Planning a family vacation should be exciting, not stressful. But for many American families, the passport application process feels like navigating a bureaucratic maze…

33 Min Read

USPS Passport Service: Apply at the Post Office?

Planning international travel? Your first step is securing a valid U.S. passport. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a convenient way for first-time…

10 Min Read

What the U.S. Department of State Does

The State Department is the lead U.S. foreign affairs agency, responsible for representing America on the world stage.

27 Min Read

Your Damaged U.S. Passport: Steps to Replacement

A damaged passport can disrupt travel plans. Whether it's water damage from an accidental spill, a tear from rough handling, or unofficial marks made…

27 Min Read

Lost Your Passport Overseas? A Step-by-Step Guide for U.S. Citizens

Losing your passport while traveling abroad can feel like a nightmare. It's your key identification and permission to travel internationally. However, this situation, while…

27 Min Read

Handling Emergencies While Traveling Abroad: A Guide

International travel offers exciting opportunities for exploration and cultural exchange. However, unexpected emergencies can sometimes arise far from home. This guide provides essential information…

40 Min Read

Finding U.S. Travel Advisories: A Guide

International travel offers exciting opportunities to explore new cultures, landscapes, and experiences. However, venturing abroad requires careful preparation, especially concerning safety and security. The…

24 Min Read

Understanding U.S. Travel Advisories: Your Guide to Staying Informed Abroad

Planning an international trip involves excitement and anticipation, but it also requires careful preparation. A crucial part of that preparation involves understanding the safety…

36 Min Read

Understanding the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service from the U.S. Department of State for U.S. citizens and nationals. This program allows…

16 Min Read