The appointment of members of the diplomatic mission and career consular post, their arrival and the expected duration of their presence in Germany and, where applicable, the arrival of members of their families and private domestic staff must be notified to the Federal Foreign Office in good time prior to their entry into Germany by Note Verbale. This also applies to countries with visa-free entry.

The procedure for those requiring a visa to enter Germany is outlined here.

The following information must be supplied:

• surname and forename(s) (as stated in travel document)

• rank and function

• expected date of entry and of commencement of duty

• name, rank and date of birth of the predecessor or, should there be no predecessor: description of the new post (brief outline of the envisaged functions)

If the home-based staff member is accompanied by family members, the following additional information should be given:

• spouse or civil partner: surname, forename(s) and date of birth, expected date of entry
• minor children: surname, forename(s) and date of birth, expected date of entry

• if a minor child enters Germany with just one parent: proof of the right to determine the child’s place of residence or the written consent of the other parent

For children who have attained the age of majority, please refer to the information on family members.

German nationality and permanent residence

The Federal Foreign Office must be notified if a member of the mission or any member of their family has German nationality or has resided in Germany for any longer period of time prior to the posting in Germany. Please refer to dual nationals / permanent residents.

The Federal Foreign Office must be notified of any changes relating to members of the joint household (e.g. departure from Germany, the birth of a child, marriage, divorce).