Comparison of Privileges Enjoyed by Honorary Council and Ambassador

Countries like North Korea pay a small token of $2500. However, there are other countries that cannot pay anything. These honorary consuls have to abide by international law. However, they do not have to follow any local law of the country where they are working. Thus, the diplomatic immunity protects the honorary consul whose bags cannot be searched.

The parking tickets are meaningless when applied to honorary consul’s car. No tax, including sales tax or VAT on things bought for home/office is required. There is no such thing as a property tax on home or office. No one like a policeman or army can enter the residence. In 1963, around 177 countries in Vienna agreed to the diplomat benefits. This is known as Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. Each country interprets diplomatic immunity in separate ways. Hence it took time for all to familiarise. The ambassadors have to be addressed as Mr. Ambassador or His Excellency. Since they get to travel to several countries, they are given diplomatic passports. They often represent European Union, North America or ASEAN countries.

Ambassador Responsibility

The responsibility of an ambassador depends on the sending country in the international organisation. Sometimes there are no embassies. Yet, the ambassador is working for two embassies.  Comparing the two positions, ambassador and honorary council, it is easier to become an ambassador. This is because there is no waiting for approval from the country. The only CV is required and once through, it takes 4-8 weeks to get a diplomatic passport made. There are no restrictions in borders.

While travelling there is no waiting in lines for baggage. There are several other privileges like red carpet treatment, usage of diplomatic lounge and more. Also, free visas to many countries and do not have to pay airport departure tax.  There are some countries where it is mandatory to have a regular valid passport. A diplomatic passport requires many accompanying documents from the country that is issuing it. It has to be registered with the foreign ministry with the appointment. Diplomatic passports may be received by an individual for a certain purpose. The process is very easy. There is an initial consultation regarding the requirements of the person. After making suitable appointments, the person’s details, including professional, personal CV, and essay are collected. The person can negotiate with potential Governments. After the appointment and collecting supporting documents from the host country process takes 4-24 weeks. In case the person is not qualified, he/she is informed the application will not go through.