United States Consulate General in Vancouver

Consulate of USA in Vancouver, Canada

The U.S. Consulate General in Vancouver serves British Columbia and the Yukon, a region vital to U.S. trade and investment, particularly with the Asia-Pacific. Vancouver is a major port city and a hub for the film industry ('Hollywood North'), technology, and natural resources. The consulate plays a key role in managing the extensive cross-border flow of people, goods, and ideas.

Visa Services

The consulate processes a wide range of non-immigrant visas. Given Vancouver's prominent film and television industry, it handles a large number of O and P visas for artists and entertainers. It also processes many B-1/B-2 visas for business and tourism, F-1 visas for students, and work visas (H-1B, L-1) for professionals in the tech and other key sectors.

Consular Services

A primary role of the consulate is to provide services to the large community of American citizens in British Columbia. This includes passport and citizenship services (like Consular Reports of Birth Abroad) and notarial services. The consulate also provides emergency assistance to U.S. citizens.

Trade & Export Support

The consulate's Commercial Service section works to promote U.S. exports to Western Canada. It focuses on sectors where U.S. companies are competitive, such as clean technology, information and communications technology (ICT), and building products. It provides trade counseling, market intelligence, and business matchmaking for American firms.

Investment Opportunities

Through the SelectUSA program, the consulate encourages Canadian companies in British Columbia and the Yukon to invest in the United States. It provides information on the U.S. investment climate and helps connect potential investors with opportunities across the U.S., particularly in sectors like technology and renewable energy.

Business Support

The consulate supports U.S. businesses by providing insights into the local economic landscape and helping them navigate regulatory issues. It fosters connections between American and Canadian companies and works with local partners to support U.S. business interests in the region.

Cultural & Educational Programs

The consulate promotes U.S. culture and values through various public diplomacy programs. This includes supporting educational exchanges, bringing American speakers to the region, and collaborating with local cultural institutions to foster a deeper understanding of the United States.

Appointment Information

Appointments are required for all routine consular services. These must be scheduled online through the consulate's website. Applicants should book their appointments well in advance of their intended date of travel or service.

Special Notes

All visitors must undergo security screening. Prohibited items include electronics, large bags, and liquids. The consulate is located in a busy downtown area, so plan your travel and arrival accordingly.