Prior notification of appointed military, naval or air attachés
In accordance with Article 7 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the UK requires Diplomatic Missions to seek approval from Protocol Directorate in advance of the appointment of military, naval or air attachés. This may be the diplomatic mission’s principal defence or military Attaché, as well as the attachés responsible for specific branches of the armed forces (if applicable). Approval is not required for deputy or assistant attachés.
Approval should be sought by submission of a Note Verbale to Protocol Directorate confirming the official’s name, rank and designation, and be accompanied by a copy of their curriculum vitae. The proposed appointment will be considered and response issued via Note Verbale.
The appointed military attaché should not commence his/her duties until approval is granted.