United States Embassy in Ottawa

Embassy of USA in Ottawa, Canada

The United States Embassy in Ottawa is the primary American diplomatic mission to Canada, providing comprehensive consular services while supporting extensive trade relationships, defense partnerships, and cultural exchanges. Located in Canada's capital, a major technology hub and the seat of the federal government, the embassy facilitates relations within one of the world's most advanced economies. The embassy serves the National Capital Region, which generates over C$70 billion in annual economic output and hosts the headquarters of major Canadian technology firms, government agencies, and research institutions with significant U.S. partnerships.

Visa Services

The embassy provides comprehensive visa services for Canadian citizens and residents traveling to the United States, including tourist visas (B-2), business visas (B-1) for trade missions and investment opportunities, student visas (F-1) for accessing American higher education, and work visas such as H-1B for skilled professionals and L-1 for intracompany transfers. Specialized visa categories include E-2 investor visas for Canadian entrepreneurs, J-1 exchange visitor visas for academic and professional programs, and O-1 visas for individuals with extraordinary abilities. The embassy coordinates closely with the Canadian-American business community, supporting visa applications for technology transfer missions and corporate initiatives.

Consular Services

The embassy offers a full range of services to American citizens in the Ottawa-Gatineau region. These services include passport issuance and renewal, registration of birth abroad for children of U.S. citizens, and notarial services. In emergencies, such as arrests, medical crises, or deaths, the American Citizen Services unit provides critical assistance and support, acting as a vital link between citizens and their families in the United States.

Trade & Export Support

The embassy in Ottawa facilitates robust bilateral trade relationships, leveraging Canada's position as a top U.S. trade partner with over $700 billion in annual trade. Key sectors include technology, where Ottawa's Kanata North tech park creates opportunities for American software and cybersecurity firms; defense and aerospace, with opportunities for U.S. defense contractors through joint programs; clean technology, where Canada's commitment to sustainable development drives demand for American green tech; and agriculture. The embassy supports U.S. exporters by providing market intelligence, facilitating connections with Canadian business networks, and offering regulatory guidance for navigating Canadian market requirements.

Investment Opportunities

Canada represents exceptional investment opportunities for American companies. Priority sectors include technology, where Canada's growing tech sector creates opportunities for U.S. software, fintech, and digital platform companies; clean technology, where Canada's leadership in renewable energy offers opportunities for American clean tech firms; natural resources, including mining and energy; and advanced manufacturing. The embassy facilitates investment in coordination with investment promotion agencies, assisting with site selection and supporting access to government funding programs, including incentives for innovation and sustainable development projects.

Business Support

The embassy delivers comprehensive business support, recognizing Canada's status as an advanced economy and its opportunities for American business expansion. Services include investment facilitation in coordination with Invest in Canada, regulatory navigation assistance regarding Canadian investment and employment laws, and business networking through partnerships with the American Chamber of Commerce in Canada and other associations. Legal and tax guidance is also available, connecting U.S. companies with specialized Canadian-American law firms and tax advisors.

Cultural & Educational Programs

The embassy coordinates extensive cultural and educational programs that strengthen ties between the United States and Canada. Educational initiatives include partnerships with leading Canadian universities like the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, which maintain active exchange programs with American institutions. Cultural programs support major cultural events and institutions. Professional exchange programs like the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) bring Canadian professionals to the U.S. for specialized training, fostering collaboration in areas such as technology, clean energy, and public administration.

Appointment Information

All routine consular services at the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa require an appointment. Appointments for passport services, notarial services, and reports of birth abroad must be booked online through the embassy's website. Visa applicants must follow the specific instructions on the visa information page to schedule their interview.

Special Notes

Visitors to the embassy are subject to security screening and are prohibited from bringing large bags, electronics, or liquids. It is recommended to arrive no more than 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. The embassy is closed on all U.S. and Canadian federal holidays.