U.S. Embassy

A U.S. Embassy is a diplomatic mission operated by the United States government abroad. The main function of a U.S. Embassy is to promote and protect the interests of American citizens and businesses, and to help foster friendly relations between the United States and the country in which it is located. In many cases, a U.S. Embassy will also provide consular services, such as issuing passports and visas and assisting American citizens who find themselves in distress overseas. The staff of a U.S. Embassy includes diplomats, who engage in diplomatic negotiations and represent the United States to the host government; consular officers, who provide assistance to American citizens; and other support staff. In some cases, an embassy may also be responsible for managing diplomatic property, such as the ambassador's residence, or providing security for American diplomats working in high-risk areas.