About the U.S. Department of State Our Mission To protect and promote U.S. security, prosperity, and democratic values and shape an international environment in which all Americans can thrive.

Jan 22, 2025 · Restoring a Tough U.S.-Cuba Policy The State Department promotes accountability for the Cuban regime for oppressing its people and rejects Cuba’s malign interference across the Americas and throughout the world.

Mar 5, 2024 · Are you traveling or living outside the U.S.? STEP is a free service that sends you emails with updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, it helps us contact you with instructions on what to do. Why join STEP? Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.

The type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel. Please visit our Visa Wizard to find out what visa type is appropriate for you. You can also visit our Frequently Asked Questions or find out about the Visa Waiver Program .

All pay for work not covered by Social Security, if the work is done in the United States, including pay for: Family employment Work as a student, student nurse, intern, newspaper, and magazine vendor

Please call 1 (888) 407-4747 (U.S. and Canada) or 1 (202) 501-4444 (overseas) or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Travel Advisories As a first step in planning any trip abroad, check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination.

Jan 24, 2025 · Check the website of the foreign embassy or consulate in the United States. You can find out there whether same-sex relationships are legal. You can also find out about any special documentation required. This includes work authorization or a residence visa. If You Need Help, Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate

U.S. CITIZEN TRAVELERS Please enroll in step.state.gov to receive alerts and ensure you can be located in an emergency. U.S. CITIZENS in an EMERGENCY Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or call 1-888-407-4747 (U.S./Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (overseas).

If you are applying for a U.S. passport, use the Passport Form Filler to fill out our primary forms (DS-11, DS-82, DS-5504, and DS-64) online and print them. The Form Filler will save you time and reduce the chance of errors on your form.

The State Department web site below is a permanent electronic archive of information released online from January 1, 1997 to January 20, 2001. Please see www.state.gov for current material from the Department of State.