Tasked with overseeing American embassies, issuing passports, and protecting American citizens abroad, the State Department alone has furloughed 62% of its 26,995 employees at the time of writing. Typically, passport processing times take four to six weeks, which doesn't include another possible two weeks of mailing time. When you're traveling, embassies are your go-to resource if you need help abroad, providing assistance in a surprising number of ways. And, they are your lifeline if you're a victim of crime or need help in returning to the U.S. during a crisis or after a natural disaster. There are 276 American embassy and consulate posts around the world, except in North Korea, Bhutan, Iran, and Syria.