Department of State

About the agency
What should others know about the agency?

Records available
Per the Annual 2015 State Department FOIA Report, "because of the nature and scope of the Department’s records holdings, including sensitive and classified records, [The Department of State] relies on the full range of exemptions when making a release determination. In implementing the Department’s mission, we work closely with many other Federal agencies and international partners. For this reason, the Department often must first consult with other, at times multiple, Federal agencies and foreign governments that have an interest in the records, which adds time and complexity to the FOIA process."

Requester suggestions, tips and guidance

 * FOIA requests can be submitted to the Department of State by mail or fax. Addresses are located here. FOIA requests can also be submitted to the Department of State’s online portal.

Appeals suggestions, tips and guidance
Learned something about this agency's process through an appeal? Let everyone know.