United States Embassy in London

Embassy of USA in London, United Kingdom

The U.S. Embassy in London is the largest U.S. embassy in Western Europe and the focal point of the 'special relationship' between the United States and the United Kingdom. Located in the Nine Elms district, the state-of-the-art embassy handles a vast range of diplomatic, economic, and security issues. It serves as the central mission for the UK, coordinating with consulates in Belfast and Edinburgh.

Visa Services

The embassy provides a full spectrum of nonimmigrant and immigrant visa services. It is a major processing post for business (B-1), tourist (B-2), work (H, L, O, P), and student (F, M) visas. Given London's status as a global financial and creative hub, it handles a high volume of E-2 investor visas and O-1 visas for individuals with extraordinary ability. It is also the designated processing center for all immigrant visas in the UK.

Consular Services

The American Citizen Services (ACS) unit offers a comprehensive suite of services for U.S. citizens in England and Wales. This includes passport services, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBA), and notarial services. The ACS unit also provides critical emergency assistance, including support for victims of crime, arrests, and welfare checks.

Trade & Export Support

The U.S. Commercial Service at the embassy is a key resource for American firms looking to enter or expand in the UK market. It provides market intelligence, trade counseling, and business matchmaking, with a focus on high-growth sectors like technology, financial services (FinTech), healthcare, and clean energy. It advocates for U.S. business interests and helps navigate UK trade regulations.

Investment Opportunities

Through the SelectUSA program, the embassy actively promotes the UK as a top source of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the United States. It works with UK-based companies to help them identify and navigate investment opportunities in the U.S., connecting them with state and local economic development organizations.

Business Support

The embassy offers extensive support to U.S. businesses, leveraging the deep economic integration between the two countries. The Economic Section analyzes and reports on the UK economy, providing insights on market access and the post-Brexit regulatory landscape. The embassy facilitates dialogue between U.S. companies and UK government officials.

Cultural & Educational Programs

The Public Affairs section manages a wide array of programs to foster cultural and educational ties. It oversees the prestigious Fulbright Commission, which facilitates academic exchanges, and supports various cultural events, speaker programs, and youth outreach to promote a deeper understanding of American society, culture, and values.

Appointment Information

All routine services, including visa interviews and American Citizen Services, are by appointment only. Appointments must be made online via the embassy's website. Applicants are advised to book well in advance due to high demand. A separate process exists for emergency appointments.

Special Notes

The embassy is a high-security facility. All visitors undergo airport-style security screening. No large bags, laptops, or other electronic devices (other than a single mobile phone, which must be turned off) are permitted. The embassy is located outside the London Congestion Charge zone.