What countries does the US recognize?
The State Department recognizes 196 other countries and 64 dependencies and sovereign areas.
The US recognizes 196 other countries as independent states and has positive diplomatic relations with 193 of them — all but Bhutan, Iran, and North Korea.
Along with the 196 nations, the US government recognizes 64 dependencies and other sovereign areas.
The US recognizes 196 peer countries and 64 other sovereign areas.
Countries of the world by US recognition status
What does it mean for the US to recognize a country?
Recognition is a matter of international diplomacy. Being internationally recognized as a sovereign state opens avenues for trade, global health advancements, membership in international institutions, and cultural exchange.
Does the US recognize Taiwan as a country?
The State Department doesn’t recognize Taiwan as an independent state or a dependency but does maintain “unofficial” relations with Taiwan through the American Institute of Taiwan, a nonprofit corporation that essentially functions as an embassy to the island.
The Congressional Research Service (CRS) describes the US’s Taiwanese foreign policy strategy as one of "strategic ambiguity” designed to maintain US diplomatic relations with China, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan. According to the CRS, the US has long opposed any forced change in Taiwan’s status but has neglected to commit to defending Taiwan against future military action.
Does the US recognize a Palestinian state?
The US does not recognize a Palestinian state.
The State Department announced it would be closing the Office of Palestinian Affairs, which operated out of the US Embassy in Jerusalem, in May 2025.
Explore all US-recognized states, dependencies, and sovereign areas.
Countries of the world by US recognition status
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