Order Code RL33147
CRS Report for Congress
Received through the CRS Web
Immunities Accorded to Foreign Diplomats,
Consular Officers, and Employees of International
Organizations Under U.S. Law
November 8, 2005
Michael John Garcia
Legislative Attorney
American Law Division
Congressional Research Service ˜ The Library of Congress

Immunities Accorded to Foreign Diplomats, Consular
Officers, and Employees of International Organizations
under U.S. Law
Summary
To conduct foreign relations and promote the interests of their nationals located
abroad, diplomatic and consular officers must be free to represent their respective
States (i.e., countries) without hindrance by their hosts. Recognizing this, States
receiving foreign diplomats and consular officers have long accorded such persons
with certain privileges and immunities on the basis of comity, reciprocity, and
international agreement. As international organizations have become increasingly
important for multilateral relations and cooperation, representatives to and employees
of such organizations have occasionally been granted privileges and immunities
similar to those traditionally accorded to diplomats or consular officials.
This report describes the privileges and immunities generally owed by the U.S.
to foreign diplomatic, consular, and international organization personnel under
treaties and statutes. Among the pertinent legal authorities are the Vienna
Convention on Consular Relations, the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations,
the International Organizations Immunities Act, the Convention on the Privileges and
Immunities of the United Nations, and the Agreement Regarding the Headquarters
of the United Nations. Included are charts that detail the specific types of jurisdiction
and obligations from which various categories of diplomatic and consular personnel
are immune under each of these authorities.

Contents
Overview of Applicable Statutes and Treaties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Vienna Convention on Consular Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
International Organizations Immunities Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
U.N. Convention on Privileges and Immunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
U.N. Headquarters Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Charts of Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons Working for
Foreign Embassies, Consulates, International Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chart 1: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons
Under the VCDR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Chart 2: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons
Under the VCCR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Chart 3: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons
Under the UNCPI and UNHQA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Chart 4: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons
Under the IOIA and Other Relevant Domestic Statutes . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Chart 5: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to U.N. Representatives
and Employees Under the IOIA, UNCPI, UNHQA, VCDR, and
Related Statutes and Agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Immunities Accorded to Foreign Diplomats,
Consular Officers, and Employees of
International Organizations under U.S. Law
In order to conduct foreign relations and promote the interests of their nationals
located abroad, States (i.e., countries) require secure means of communicating with
their diplomats (i.e., representatives of a government who conduct relations with
another government on its behalf) and consular officers (i.e., representatives of a
government who promote the government’s commercial interests and provide
assistance to its citizens located in another country) stationed in other States. To
ensure that such channels of communication are preserved, States receiving foreign
diplomats and consular officers have long accorded such persons with certain
privileges and immunities on the basis of comity, reciprocity, and international
agreement.1
As political and economic contacts between States have grown, customary
practices regarding diplomatic and consular immunities have increasingly been
codified via bilateral or multilateral agreement. These agreements not only describe
the specific privileges and immunities to be accorded to foreign diplomats and
consular officers by a receiving State, but also specify those privileges and
immunities owed to other members of diplomatic and consular missions, as well as
towards the family members of mission members.
In recent decades, international organizations have been viewed as a means by
which States may conduct multilateral relations and cooperate on issues which are
transnational in scope. In order to ensure the autonomy of such organizations and
prevent any member State from unreasonably interfering with organizational
functions, many international organizations and their employees have been accorded
certain privileges and immunities by their member States. These privileges and
immunities are typically similar in scope to those accorded to foreign diplomatic
missions.
This report describes the privileges and immunities generally owed to foreign
diplomatic, consular, and international organization personnel under U.S. law. The
treaties and statutes discussed in this report are:
1 For background on the history of diplomatic immunity, see CRS Report RS21672;
Diplomatic Immunity: History and Overview, by Michael John Garcia.

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! the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (Diplomatic
Convention);2
! the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (Consular
Convention);3
! the Agreement Regarding the Headquarters of the United Nations
(Headquarters Agreement);4
! the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United
Nations (U.N. Convention);5 and
! the International Organizations Immunities Act.6
This report contains charts detailing the privileges and immunities provided by the
legal authorities mentioned above, along with the personnel to whom such privileges
and immunities apply.
It is important to note that the above-mentioned authorities are not exhaustive,
and the scope of immunity due in any particular case may be governed in whole or
in part by other instruments. For example, the United States is a party to many
bilateral consular conventions that contain immunities provisions. In most instances,
the other signatory is, along with the U.S., a party to the Consular Convention. In
these cases, the instrument affording greater protection to each State’s consular
officers is controlling.7 Some countries with which the United States has a consular
treaty are not parties to the Consular Convention. The immunities accorded to
consular personnel of such States are governed by the appropriate bilateral treaties,
not by the authority discussed in this report. Furthermore, not all international
organizations are covered by the International Organizations Immunities Act (IOIA),
or, as is the case with the United Nations, are covered not only by the IOIA but also
by a number of international agreements.
Even where immunities are governed generally by the authorities cited in the
relevant chart, individuals serving in similar positions for different countries may
nevertheless enjoy different immunities. For example, the Diplomatic Relations Act,
which effectively adopted the standards of the Diplomatic Convention for domestic
application, provides that the President may, on the basis of reciprocal treatment,
specify immunities for individual countries that are more or less favorable than those
2 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, April 18, 1961, 23 U.S.T. 3227, T.I.A.S. No.
7502, 500 U.N.T.S. 95 [hereinafter “Diplomatic Convention”].
3 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, April 24, 1963, 21 U.S.T. 77, T.I.A.S. No.
6820, 596 U.N.T.S. 261 [hereinafter “Consular Convention”].
4 Agreement Regarding the Headquarters of the United Nations, Nov. 21, 1947, 61 Stat.
3416, T.I.A.S. No. 1676, 11 U.N.T.S. 11. [hereinafter “Headquarters Agreement”], Pub. L.
No. 80-357 (1947).
5 Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, Feb. 13, 1946, 21
U.S.T. 1418, T.I.A.S. No. 6900, 1 U.N.T.S. 15 [hereinafter “U.N. Convention”].
6 International Organizations Immunities Act, 22 U.S.C. §§ 288 et seq. [hereinafter “IOIA”].
7 See Consular Convention, art. 73.

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under the Convention.8 Both the Diplomatic Convention and the Consular
Convention allow the United States to apply immunities restrictively where a
particular country has applied immunity rules restrictively towards American
representatives.9 Similarly, the IOIA conditions certain immunities on the basis of
treatment of American representatives abroad.10
It must be emphasized that the immunities provided to foreign diplomats,
consular officials, and employees of international organizations may be waived by
the sending State or the appropriate international organization, with or without the
consent of the individual involved.11 On the other hand, certain individual acts may
lead to a waiver of immunity. For example, the initiation of civil proceedings by an
otherwise exempt individual may preclude him from invoking immunity with regards
to a directly-connected counterclaim.12 Another example of this type of personal
waiver is the relinquishment of all immunity by consular employees and staff who
undertake private gainful employment in the receiving State.13
Finally, note that even where an individual enjoys immunity from jurisdiction,
a person harmed by the immune individual nevertheless may have recourse to
compensation under one of two statutes. First, the Diplomatic Relations Act requires
that (1) each diplomatic mission in the United States (including otherwise immune
missions to international organizations), (2) members of these missions and their
families, and (3) high ranking United Nations officials all meet liability insurance
requirements relating to the operation of motor vehicles in the United States.14
Second, the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act provides that a foreign State shall not,
with limited exception, be immune from suit for money damages being sought
against it for harm occurring in the United States and caused by a wrongful
nondiscretionary act of one of its officials or employees acting within the scope of
duty.15
Overview of Applicable Statutes and Treaties
The following sections provide an overview of the statutes and agreements
governing the privileges and immunities accorded to foreign diplomats, consular
officials, employees of international organizations, and related personnel.
8 22 U.S.C. § 254c.
9 See,e.g., Diplomatic Convention, art. 47; Consular Convention, art. 72.
10 See,e.g. IOIA § 288d.
11 See, e.g., Diplomatic Convention, art. 32; Consular Convention, art. 45; U.N. Convention,
§§ 14, 20; IOIA § 288d(b).
12 See Diplomatic Convention, art. 32(3); see also Consular Convention, art. 45(3).
13 See Consular Convention, art. 57(2).
14 22 U.S.C. § 254e.
15 28 U.S.C. § 1605(a)(5).

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Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations
Pursuant to its treaty obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic
Relations (VCDR), ratified in 1972, the United States accords certain privileges and
immunities to designated categories of persons employed by other Convention
parties’ diplomatic missions, along with the household family members of certain
mission employees. Persons entitled to certain privileges and immunities under the
Diplomatic Convention include diplomatic agents and their immediate household
families, the mission’s administrative and technical staff and the immediate
household families of those staff members; the mission’s service staff; and private
servants of members of the mission.
Under the Convention, the United States accords diplomatic agents (and
members of their households) absolute immunity from its criminal jurisdiction and
near-absolute immunity from U.S. civil and administrative jurisdiction. A diplomatic
agent is also not obliged to give evidence as a witness.16 Below the rank of diplomat,
the administrative, technical, and service staffs also are immune from criminal
jurisdiction, but have more limited immunity from civil and administrative
jurisdiction.17 The household family members of diplomatic agents and mission staff
are also generally provided with the same privileges and immunities accorded to the
diplomatic agent or mission staff member to which they are related.18 To varying
degrees, persons covered by the Diplomatic Convention also receive immunity from
taxes and customs duties, military and public service obligations, and alien
registration requirements.
Congress passed the Diplomatic Relations Act to grant the privileges and
immunities accorded under the Diplomatic Convention to all foreign diplomatic
missions, personnel, and the families of such personnel, regardless of whether the
sending State is a party to the Convention.19 This extension is subject to the sending
State’s reciprocal treatment towards U.S. diplomatic missions, personnel, and
families of such personnel, along with other terms and conditions the President
deems appropriate.20
Vienna Convention on Consular Relations
The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (VCCR), which was ratified by
the U.S. in 1969, accords certain privileges and immunities to consular officers (i.e.,
persons who exercise consular functions on behalf of the sending State, notably
including the consular post) and their immediate household families; the post’s
administrative and technical staff and the immediate household families of those staff
members; the post’s service staff; and honorary consuls (i.e., consular officers other
16 Diplomatic Convention, art. 31(2).
17 Id. art. 37.
18 Id. art. 37(1)-(2).
19 22 U.S.C. § 254c.
20 Id.

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than career consular officers). These privileges and immunities are lesser in scope
than those enjoyed by similarly-situated members of diplomatic missions and those
members’ household families. For example, while foreign diplomats and their family
members receive full immunity from the criminal jurisdiction of the receiving State
under the Diplomatic Convention, consular officers covered by the Consular
Convention only receive immunity for actions they take in the course of their official
functions,21 and their family members receive no immunity from the criminal
jurisdiction of the receiving State. Family members of consular employees also
receive no immunity from the receiving State’s civil jurisdiction. Members of the
consular post and their family members do receive varying degrees of immunity from
the receiving State’s taxes and custom duties,22 alien registration requirements,23 and
military service obligations.24
The privileges and immunities owed under the Consular Convention only apply
between Convention parties. The privileges and immunities owed by the U.S. to the
consular personnel of non-Convention parties are governed by applicable bilateral
treaty. In the case that the U.S. and another Convention party also have a bilateral
treaty governing consular relations, the instrument providing broader coverage is
controlling.25
International Organizations Immunities Act
The IOIA provides a significant number of privileges and immunities for
international organizations designated by the President via executive order. Certain
privileges and immunities are also accorded to employees, officials, and
representatives to such organizations, along with members of their immediate
families, though these are less than those accorded to the international organizations
themselves. Officials, employees, and representatives to designated international
organizations are accorded immunity pursuant to the IOIA following validated
notification to the Secretary of State of their organizational position. The terms
“official,” “employee,” and “representative” are not defined by the IOIA The United
Nations was designated as an “international organization” for purposes of the IOIA
immediately following the statute’s enactment.26 Several dozen other international
organizations have been designated as receiving coverage under the IOIA, including
such organizations as the International Monetary Fund,27 the International Committee
21 Consular Convention, arts. 41, 43.
22 Id. arts. 49-50.
23 Id. art. 46.
24 Id. art. 52.
25 Id. art. 73.
26 Exec. Ord. No. 9698, Feb. 19, 1946, 11 Fed. Reg. 1809.
27 Exec. Ord. No. 9751, Jul. 11, 1946, 11 Fed. Reg. 7713.

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of the Red Cross,28 the Organization of American States,29 the World Health
Organization,30 and the World Trade Organization.31
U.N. Convention on Privileges and Immunities
In the same year the IOIA was enacted, the U.N. General Assembly also adopted
the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, establishing
de minimus standards for the immunities and privileges accorded to the United
Nations and U.N. officials, Member State representatives, and experts working for
U.N. missions. These immunities and privileges are largely similar to those accorded
via the IOIA.32 The United States ratified the Convention in 1970.
As with the IOIA, the U.N. Convention on Privileges and Immunities (UNCPI)
does not define the term “employee” or “official,” though this is perhaps of little
concern because the U.N. Convention provides immunity only to those categories
of U.N. officials (beyond the U.N. Secretary-General and all Assistant Secretary-
Generals) designated by the Secretary-General to receive protection under the
Convention.33 The Convention also does not define “experts on missions” who
receive immunity under the U.N. Convention. However, an advisory decision by the
International Court of Justice (which has ultimate authority to interpret the U.N.
Convention),34 found that the category of experts on U.N. missions includes, inter
alia
, persons entrusted by the United Nations with mediating disputes, preparing
reports and studies, conducting investigations, or finding and establishing facts on
behalf of U.N. missions.35 The Convention defines “representatives” of U.N.
Member States as including all delegates, advisors, and secretaries of Member State
delegations.36
Besides granting an explicit set of privileges and immunities to designated
persons, the U.N. Convention also specifies that certain designated individuals (i.e.,
U.N. representatives, the U.N. Secretary-General, all Assistant Secretary-Generals,
28 Exec. Ord. No. 12643, Jun. 23, 1988, 53 Fed. Reg. 24247.
29 Exec. Ord. No. 10533, Jun. 3, 1954, 19 Fed. Reg. 3289.
30 Exec. Ord. No. 10025, Dec. 30, 1948, 13 Fed. Reg. 9361.
31 Exec. Ord. No. 13042, Apr. 9, 1997, 50 Fed. Reg. 28301.
32 Two notable differences are (1) the U.N. Convention provides for certain privileges and
immunities for experts of U.N. missions, while the IOIA does not, and (2) the IOIA also
accords certain privileges and immunities to employees of international organizations, while
the U.N. Convention does not mandate such benefits.
33 Accordingly, non-designated officials and all other U.N. employees are not granted
immunity from a local State’s legal process via the U.N. Convention, though they may
nevertheless receive immunity via the IOIA.
34 U.N. Convention, §§ 29-30.
35 See Applicability of Article VI, Section 22, of the Convention on the Privileges and
Immunities of the United Nations, Advisory Opinion, 1989 ICJ Rep. 177 (Dec. 15, 1989).
36 U.N. Convention, § 16.

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and certain U.N. officials designated to receive protection under the Convention by
the Secretary-General) are to receive most or all of the privileges and immunities
accorded by a receiving State to diplomatic envoys. Accordingly, by reference to
other statutes and treaties adopted by the receiving State, the U.N. Convention
provides these U.N. officials and representatives with certain privileges and
immunities beyond those explicitly described under the U.N. Convention. Generally
speaking, the U.N. officials and representatives covered by the U.N. Convention are
given the same privileges and immunities as those the U.S. accords to diplomats
under the Diplomatic Convention. With respect to designated U.N. officials,
however, Diplomatic Convention standards concerning immunity from criminal
prosecution apparently are not so incorporated, as the U.N. Convention provides that
such officials are immune only for official acts.37
U.N. Headquarters Agreement
In 1947, the United States entered the Headquarters Agreement with the United
Nations. The U.N. Headquarters Agreement (UNHQA) primarily concerns the
privileges and immunities accorded to the United Nations and its headquarters in
New York. However, the Agreement also provides certain privileges and immunities
for specified U.N. representatives and related personnel residing in the United States.
The Headquarters Agreement provides such persons with the full protections
accorded to diplomatic envoys — a broader scope of immunity than that provided
under either the IOIA or the U.N. Convention.38 Representatives and related
personnel of U.N. Member States whose governments are not recognized by the
United States receive lesser privileges and immunities.39
37 Id. § 18(a).
38 Headquarters Agreement, § 15.
39 Id.

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Charts of Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons Working for Foreign
Embassies, Consulates, International Organizations
The following charts list the major privileges and immunities accorded to persons working for foreign embassies,
consulates, or international organizations (including, specifically, the United Nations). When a treaty or international
agreement makes reference to covered personnel receiving the same immunities accorded to persons covered by other
treaties, the nature of such immunities is explained. Thus, for example, because the U.N. Convention on Privileges and
Immunities provides that certain U.N. personnel are to receive the same immunities as the receiving State accords
diplomatic envoys, the chart detailing the immunities provided under the U.N. Convention occasionally makes references
to immunities provided to diplomats under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
It is important to note that the charts concerning the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna
Convention on Consular Relations only discuss those immunities accorded to persons who are not U.S. nationals or
permanent residents. Diplomatic and consular officers working on behalf of a foreign State who are U.S. nationals or
permanent residents only receive immunity for official acts performed in the exercise of their functions, while other
diplomatic or consular personnel or members of their household families receive no immunities if they are U.S. nationals
or permanent residents. Persons who are employed by international organizations or are foreign representatives to such
organizations are provided with immunity regardless of whether they are U.S. nationals or permanent residents.

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Chart 1: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons Under the VCDR
Provision
Diplomatic
Household
Administrative
Household
Service Staff
Private Ser-
Agents
Family Mem-
& Technical
Family Mem-
vants of Mem-
bers of a Dip-
Staff
bers of Admin-
bers of the
lomatic Agent
istrative and
Mission
Technical Staff
Definition
Head of a mis-
Not defined by
Staff members
Not defined by
Staff mem-
Persons who
sion or a member
the VCDR.
employed in the
the VCDR.
bers in the
are in the do-
of the mission
administrative
domestic ser-
mestic service
staff having dip-
and technical
vice of the
of a member of
lomatic rank.
service of the
mission.
the mission
VCDR, art. 1(d),
mission. VCDR,
VCDR, art.
and who are
(e).
art. 1(f).
1(g).
not employees
of the sending
State. VCDR,
art. 1(h).
Criminal
Immune from
Same as diplo-
Immune only for
Same as admin-
Immune with
No immunity
Jurisdiction
jurisdiction.
matic agents.
acts performed in
istrative and
respect to acts
under the
VCDR, art.
VCDR, art.
the course of of-
technical staff.
performed in
VCDR. Juris-
31(1).
37(1).
ficial duties.
VCDR, art.
the course of
diction to be
VCDR, art.
37(2).
duties.
asserted so as
37(2).
VCDR, art.
not to interfere
37(3).
unduly with
the functions
of the mission.
VCDR, art.
37(4).
Civil Juris-
Immune except
Same as diplo-
Immune with
Same as admin-
Same as ad-
No immunity
diction
for (a) certain
matic agents.
respect to acts
istrative and
ministrative
under the Con-
actions relating
VCDR, art.
performed in the
technical staff.
and technical
vention. Juris-
to real property,
37(1); 22
course of official
VCDR, art.
staff. VCDR,
diction to be
(b) estate matters
U.S.C. § 254e.
duties. VCDR,
37(2); 22 U.S.C.
art. 37(3); 22
asserted so as
in which the
art. 37(2). Must
§ 254e.
U.S.C. §
not to interfere
agent is acting as
have vehicle in-
254e.
unduly with

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Provision
Diplomatic
Household
Administrative
Household
Service Staff
Private Ser-
Agents
Family Mem-
& Technical
Family Mem-
vants of Mem-
bers of a Dip-
Staff
bers of Admin-
bers of the
lomatic Agent
istrative and
Mission
Technical Staff
private party, and
surance under 22
the functions
(c) actions relat-
U.S.C. § 254e.
of the mission.
ing to private
VCDR, art.
professional or
37(4).
commercial ac-
tivities. VCDR,
art. 31(1). Must
have vehicle in-
surance under 22
U.S.C. § 254e.
Judicial
Immune from
Same as diplo-
Generally im-
Same as admin-
Immune with
No immunity
Process
obligation to
matic agents.
mune to same
istrative and
respect to acts
under the
give evidence.
VCDR, art.
degree as diplo-
technical staff.
performed in
VCDR. Juris-
Immune from
37(1).
matic agents,
VCDR, art.
the course of
diction to be
execution of
except immune
37(2).
duties.
asserted so as
judgments except
from the execu-
VCDR, art.
not to interfere
in non-immune
tion in a civil
37(3).
unduly with
civil action
judgment only if
the functions
where execution
it concerns acts
of the mission.
will not infringe
performed in the
VCDR, art.
on the inviolabil-
course of official
37(4).
ity of his person
duties. VCDR,
or residence.
art. 37(2).
VCDR, art.
31(2), (3). Pri-
vate residence
deemed inviola-
ble to same de-
gree as diplo-
matic mission.
VCDR, art. 30.

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Provision
Diplomatic
Household
Administrative
Household
Service Staff
Private Ser-
Agents
Family Mem-
& Technical
Family Mem-
vants of Mem-
bers of a Dip-
Staff
bers of Admin-
bers of the
lomatic Agent
istrative and
Mission
Technical Staff
Taxes
Immune other
Same as diplo-
Same as diplo-
Same as diplo-
Exempt from
Same as ser-
than for (a) indi-
matic agents.
matic agents.
matic agents.
dues and
vice staff.
rect taxes in the
VCDR, art.
VCDR, art.
VCDR, art.
taxes on
VCDR, art.
price of
37(1).
37(2).
37(2).
emoluments
37(4).
goods/services;
received by
(b) real property
reason of their
taxes/fees on
employment.
private immov-
VCDR, art.
able property,
37(3).
unless held on
behalf of sending
State; (c) estate/
inheritance taxes
on property
which was not
brought from
sending State;
(d) income tax
on private in-
come; (e)
charges for ser-
vices rendered;
and (f) court,
registration, or
record fees,
mortgage dues
and stamp duty,
with respect to
non-mission,
immovable prop-
erty. VCDR, art.
34.

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Provision
Diplomatic
Household
Administrative
Household
Service Staff
Private Ser-
Agents
Family Mem-
& Technical
Family Mem-
vants of Mem-
bers of a Dip-
Staff
bers of Admin-
bers of the
lomatic Agent
istrative and
Mission
Technical Staff
Customs
Immune from
Same as diplo-
Immune only
Same as admin-
None, except
No immunity
duties on articles
matic agents.
from duties on
istrative and
to the extent
under the Con-
for personal or
VCDR, art.
articles imported
technical staff.
that customs
vention. Juris-
official use. Ex-
37(1).
at time of first
VCDR, art.
may relate to
diction to be
empt from in-
installation.
37(2).
acts per-
asserted so as
spection except
VCDR, art.
formed in the
not to interfere
where there are
37(2).
course of the
unduly with
serious grounds
duty. VCDR,
the functions
to believe there
art. 37(3).
of the mission.
are contraband
VCDR, art.
articles or arti-
37(4).
cles not for per-
sonal or official
use. VCDR, art.
36.
Social Se-
Exempt with re-
Same as diplo-
Same as diplo-
Same as diplo-
Same as dip-
No immunity
curity
spect to services
matic agents.
matic agents.
matic agents.
lomatic
under the Con-
rendered for the
VCDR, art.
VCDR, art.
VCDR, art.
agents.
vention. Juris-
sending State.
37(1).
37(2).
37(2).
VCDR, art.
diction to be
Not exempt with
37(3).
asserted so as
respect to per-
not to interfere
sonal servants
unduly with
who are U.S.
the functions
nationals or per-
of the mission.
manent residents,
VCDR, art.
or who are not
37(4).
covered by social
security provi-
sions of the send-
ing State or a
third State.
VCDR, art.

CRS-13
Provision
Diplomatic
Household
Administrative
Household
Service Staff
Private Ser-
Agents
Family Mem-
& Technical
Family Mem-
vants of Mem-
bers of a Dip-
Staff
bers of Admin-
bers of the
lomatic Agent
istrative and
Mission
Technical Staff
33(1)-(2).
Military
Immune from all
Same as diplo-
Same as diplo-
Same as diplo-
No immunity
No immunity
Service,
public service
matic agents.
matic agents.
matic agents.
in Conven-
under the Con-
Public Ser-
and military obli-
VCDR, art.
VCDR, art.
VCDR, art.
tion, but may
vention. Juris-
vice
gations. VCDR,
37(1).
37(2).
37(2).
be exempt
diction to be
art. 35.
under 50 App.
asserted so as
U.S.C. App. §
not to interfere
456.
unduly with
the functions
of the mission.
VCDR, art.
37(4).
Immigra-
No specific im-
Same as diplo-
Same as diplo-
Same as admin-
Same as ad-
No immunity
tion
munity under the
matic agents.
matic agents,
istrative and
ministrative
under the Con-
Convention, but
VCDR, art.
with respect to
technical staff.
and technical
vention. Juris-
immune gener-
37(1).
actions taken in
VCDR, art.
staff. VCDR,
diction to be
ally from civil
course of official
37(2).
art. 37(3.)
asserted so as
and administra-
duties. VCDR,
not to interfere
tive jurisdiction
art. 37(2).
unduly with
under VCDR,
the functions
art. 31.
of the mission.
VCDR, art.
37(4).

CRS-14
Chart 2: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons Under the VCCR
Provision
Consular Offi-
Household
Consular Em-
Household
Service Staff
Honorary
cer
Family
ployee
Family Mem-
Consul
Members of
bers of Con-
Consular
sular Employ-
Officer
ees
Definition
Any person,
Not defined
Any person em-
Not defined by
Any person em-
Consular officer
including the
by the VCCR. ployed in the
the VCCR.
ployed in the
other than career
head of a con-
administrative
domestic service
consular officer
sular post, en-
or technical ser-
of a consular
of the sending
trusted in that
vice of a con-
post. VCCR, art.
State. VCCR,
capacity with
sular post.
1(f).
art. 1(2).
the exercise of
VCCR, art. 1(e).
consular func-
tions. VCCR,
art. 1(d).
Criminal
Immune from
No immunity
Immune from
No immunity
No immunity
No immunity
Jurisdiction
jurisdiction with
under the
jurisdiction in
under the
under the
from arrest,
respect to acts
VCCR.
respect to acts
VCCR.
VCCR.
detention, or
performed in the
performed in the
prosecution, but
exercise of con-
exercise of con-
proceedings are
sular functions.
sular functions.
to be carried out
Immune from
VCCR, art. 43.
expeditiously
arrest and deten-
with as little
tion pending
interference with
trial, except in
official
case of grave
functions as
crime pursuant
circumstances
to a decision by
will allow.
a judicial au-
VCCR, art. 63.
thority. Crimi-
nal proceedings
to be conducted
so as not to in-
terfere unduly

CRS-15
Provision
Consular Offi-
Household
Consular Em-
Household
Service Staff
Honorary
cer
Family
ployee
Family Mem-
Consul
Members of
bers of Con-
Consular
sular Employ-
Officer
ees
with consular
functions.
VCCR, arts. 41,
43.
Civil Juris-
Immune from
No immunity
Same as con-
No immunity
No immunity
Same as
diction
civil and admin-
under the
sular officers.
under the
under the
consular
istrative juris-
VCCR.
VCCR, art. 43.
VCCR.
VCCR.
officers. VCCR,
diction with re-
art. 58(2).
spect to acts
performed in
exercise of
functions except
(1) to degree
that an action
relates to private
contract other
than on behalf
of sending State
or (2) actions by
3rd parties for
vehicle-caused
damage. VCCR,
art. 43.
Judicial
Immune from
No immunity
Immune only
No immunity
As members of
Same as
Process
contempt for
under the
with respect to
under the
consular post,
consular
failure to give
VCCR.
giving evidence
VCCR.
have same de-
employees.
evidence when-
concerning offi-
gree of immu-
VCCR, art.
ever called upon
cial functions or
nity as consular
58(2).
to do so. Evi-
documents, or
employees.
dence, when
concerning ex-
VCCR, arts.
provided, may
pert testimony
1(g), 44.

CRS-16
Provision
Consular Offi-
Household
Consular Em-
Household
Service Staff
Honorary
cer
Family
ployee
Family Mem-
Consul
Members of
bers of Con-
Consular
sular Employ-
Officer
ees
be given so as
on sending
not to interfere
State’s law.
with consular
VCCR, art. 44.
functions.
VCCR, art. 44.
Taxes
Immune from
Same as con-
Same as con-
Same as con-
Exempt from
Exempt from all
taxes other than
sular officers.
sular officers.
sular officers.
dues and taxes
dues and taxes
(a) indirect
VCCR, art.
VCCR, art.
VCCR, art.
on wages re-
on remuneration
taxes in the
49(1).
49(1).
49(1).
ceived for their
and emoluments
price of
services. VCCR,
received for
goods/services;
art 49(2).
performing
(b) real property
consular
taxes/fees on
functions.
private immov-
VCCR, art. 66.
able property,
unless held for
sending State;
(c) inheritance
and estate taxes
on property not
brought from
sending State;
(d) income tax
on private U.S.
income; (e)
charges on spe-
cific services;
and (f) court,
registration, or
record fees,
mortgage dues
and stamp du-

CRS-17
Provision
Consular Offi-
Household
Consular Em-
Household
Service Staff
Honorary
cer
Family
ployee
Family Mem-
Consul
Members of
bers of Con-
Consular
sular Employ-
Officer
ees
ties on non-mis-
sion property.
VCDR, art. 34.
Customs
Immune from
Same as con-
Generally the
No immunity
No immunity
Immune only
duties on arti-
sular officers.
same as con-
under VCCR.
under VCCR.
with respect to
cles for personal
VCCR, art.
sular officers
customs duties
or official use.
50(1).
with respect to
on certain
Exempt from
articles imported
consular office
inspection ex-
at the time of
items. VCCR,
cept where there
fist installation.
art. 62.
are serious
VCCR, art.
grounds to be-
50(2). However,
lieve there are
no immunity
contraband arti-
concerning per-
cles or articles
sonal inspection
not for personal
of baggage.
or official use.
VCCR, art.
50(1).
Social Se-
Exempt with
Same as con-
Same as con-
Same as con-
Same as con-
No immunity
curity
respect to ser-
sular officers.
sular officers.
sular officers.
sular officers.
provision
vices rendered
VCCR, art.
VCCR, art.
VCCR, art.
VCCR, art.
separate from
for the sending
48(1).
48(1).
48(1).
48(1).
that concerning
State. Not ex-
taxes and dues
empt with re-
on all
spect to per-
emoluments and
sonal servants
remuneration in
who are U.S.
respect to
nationals or per-
official
manent resi-
functions.
dents, or are not
VCCR, art. 66.

CRS-18
Provision
Consular Offi-
Household
Consular Em-
Household
Service Staff
Honorary
cer
Family
ployee
Family Mem-
Consul
Members of
bers of Con-
Consular
sular Employ-
Officer
ees
covered by so-
cial security
provisions of
the sending
State or a third
State. VCCR,
art. 48(1).
Military
Immune from
Same as con-
Same as con-
Same as con-
Same as con-
Same as
Service,
all public ser-
sular officers.
sular officers.
sular officers.
sular officers.
consular
Public Ser-
vice and mili-
VCCR, art.
VCCR, art. 52.
VCCR, art. 52.
VCCR, art. 52.
officers. VCCR,
vice
tary obligations.
52.
art. 67.
VCCR, art. 52.
Immigra-
Exempt from all
Same as con-
Exempt from
Exempt only to
No immunity
Exempt from
tion
laws regarding
sular offi-
registration and
same degree as
under the
registration and
registration of
cials. VCCR,
residency permit
principal con-
VCCR.
residency permit
aliens and resi-
art. 46.
requirements if
sular employee.
requirements,
dency permits.
permanent em-
VCCR, art. 46.
unless also
VCCR, art. 46.
ployee of send-
engaged in
ing State and are
private gainful
not engaged in
occupation in
private gainful
the U.S. VCCR,
occupation in
art. 65.
the United
States. VCCR,
art. 46.

CRS-19
Chart 3: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons Under the UNCPI and UNHQA
Provision
Resident
Representatives of
Secretary General,
Designated U.N.
Experts on U.N.
Representatives of
Member States
Assistant
Officials
Missions
Member States
(generally)
Secretaries General,
Their Spouses and
Minor Children

Definition
All delegates, deputy
All delegates, deputy
Not expressly
Individuals within
Not expressly
delegates, advisors,
delegates, advisers,
defined.
categories of
defined.
technical experts and
technical experts and
officials designated
designated by Member
secretaries of
by the Secretary-
State with agreement,
delegations. UNCPI,
General as entitled to
where relevant, of the
§ 16.
immunities. UNCPI,
U.N. or United States.
§17.
UNHQA, § 15.
Criminal
Same as diplomatic
Same as resident
Same as
Immune with respect
Immune from
Jurisdiction
envoys. UNCPI, §
representatives (i.e.,
representatives of
to official acts.
personal arrest and
11(g); UNHQA, § 15.
receive same
U.N. Member States
UNCPI, § 18(a).
detention. Immune
In U.S., full immunity
immunities accorded
(i.e., receive same
with respect to
from criminal
to diplomatic
immunities accorded
official acts. UNCPI,
jurisdiction. VCDR,
envoys). UNCPI, §
to diplomatic
§ 22(a), (b).
art. 31(1).
11(g); VCDR, art.
envoys). UNCPI, §
31(1).
19; VCDR, art.
31(1).
Civil
Same as diplomatic
Same as resident
Same as resident
Immune with respect
Immune with respect
Jurisdiction
envoys. UNCPI, §
representatives (i.e.,
representatives (i.e.,
to official acts.
to official acts.
11(g); UNHQA, § 15.
receive same
receive same
UNCPI, § 18(a).
UNCPI, § 22(b).
Immune except for (a)
immunities accorded
immunities accorded
certain actions relating
to diplomatic
to diplomatic
to real property, (b)
envoys). UNCPI, §
envoys). Must have
estate matters in which
11(g); VCDR, art.
vehicle insurance.
the agent is acting as
31(1).
UNCPI, § 19; 22
private party, and (c)
U.S.C. § 254e.
actions relating to
private professional or
commercial activities.

CRS-20
Provision
Resident
Representatives of
Secretary General,
Designated U.N.
Experts on U.N.
Representatives of
Member States
Assistant
Officials
Missions
Member States
(generally)
Secretaries General,
Their Spouses and
Minor Children

VCDR, art. 31(1).
Judicial
Same as diplomatic
Same as resident
Same as resident
Immune with respect
Immune with respect
Process
envoys. UNCPI, §
representatives (i.e.,
representatives (i.e.,
to official acts.
to official acts.
11(g); UNHQA, § 15.
receive same
receive same
UNCPI, § 18(a).
UNCPI, § 22(b).
In U.S., immune from
immunities accorded
immunities accorded
obligation to give
to diplomatic
to diplomatic
evidence. Immune
envoys). UNCPI, §
envoys). UNCPI, §
from execution of
11(g); VCDR arts.
19; VCDR arts. 30,
judgments except in
30, 31(2)-(3).
31(2)-(3).
non-immune civil
action where execution
will not infringe on the
inviolability of his
person or residence.
VCDR, art. 31(2)-(3).
Private residence
deemed inviolable to
same degree as
diplomatic mission.
VCDR, art. 30.
Taxes
Same as diplomatic
Same as resident
Same as resident
Immune from taxes
No express
envoys. UNCPI, §
representatives (i.e.,
representatives (i.e.,
on salaries and
immunity, beyond
11(g); UNHQA, § 15.
receive same
receive same
emoluments paid by
general immunity
In U.S., immune from
immunities accorded
immunities accorded
the U.N. UNCPI, §
necessary for the
taxes other than (a)
to diplomatic
to diplomatic
18(b).
independent exercise
indirect taxes in the
envoys), except with
envoys). UNCPI, §
of their functions.
price of goods or
respect to excise
19; VCDR, art. 34.
UNCPI, § 22.
services; (b) real
duties and sales
property taxes and fees
taxes. UNCPI, §
on private immovable
11(g); VCDR, art.
property, unless held
34.

CRS-21
Provision
Resident
Representatives of
Secretary General,
Designated U.N.
Experts on U.N.
Representatives of
Member States
Assistant
Officials
Missions
Member States
(generally)
Secretaries General,
Their Spouses and
Minor Children

on behalf of sending
State; (c) estate and
inheritance taxes not
attributable to property
brought from sending
State; (d) income tax
on private income
earned in U.S.; (e)
charges levied for
specific services
rendered; and (f)
registration, court or
record fees, mortgage
dues and stamp duty,
with respect to
immovable property,
other than mission
premises. VCDR, art.
34.
Customs
Same as diplomatic
Same as resident
Same as resident
Immune from duties
Same immunities as
envoys. UNCPI, §
representatives (i.e.,
representatives (i.e.,
on furniture and
diplomatic envoys as
11(g); UNHQA, § 15.
receive same
receive same
effects imported at
to personal baggage.
Immune from duties on
immunities accorded
immunities accorded
the time of first
UNCPI, § 22(f). In
articles for personal or
to diplomatic
to diplomatic
taking post. UNCPI,
U.S., exempt from
official use. In U.S.,
envoys), except with
envoys). UNCPI, §
§ 18(g).
inspection except
exempt from
respect to duties on
19; VCDR, art. 36.
where there are
inspection except
goods imported other
serious grounds to
where there are serious
than personal
believe there are
grounds to believe
baggage. UNCPI, §
contraband articles
there are contraband
11(g); VCDR, art.
or articles not for
articles or articles not
36.
personal or official
for personal or official
use. VCDR, art. 36.

CRS-22
Provision
Resident
Representatives of
Secretary General,
Designated U.N.
Experts on U.N.
Representatives of
Member States
Assistant
Officials
Missions
Member States
(generally)
Secretaries General,
Their Spouses and
Minor Children

use. VCDR, art. 36.
Social Security
Same as diplomatic
Same as resident
Same as resident
No express immunity
No express
envoys. UNCPI, §
representatives (i.e.,
representatives (i.e.,
other than for taxes
immunity, beyond
11(g); UNHQA, § 15.
receive same
receive same
on U.N. salaries and
general immunity
In U.S., exempt with
immunities accorded
immunities accorded
emoluments. UNCPI,
necessary for the
respect to services
to diplomatic
to diplomatic
§ 18.
independent exercise
rendered for the
envoys). UNCPI, §
envoys). UNCPI, §
of their functions.
sending State. Not
11(g); VCDR, art.
11(g); VCDR, art.
UNCPI, § 22.
exempt with respect to
33(1)-(2).
33(1)-(2).
personal servants who
are U.S. nationals or
permanent residents, or
are not covered by
social security
provisions of the
sending State or a third
State. VCDR, art.
33(1)-(2).
Military
Exempt, along with
Exempt, along with
Exempt, along with
Exempt from
No express
Service, Public
spouses, from national
spouses, from
spouses, from
national service
immunity, beyond
Service
service obligations.
national service
national service
obligations. UNCPI,
general immunity
UNCPI, § 11(d).
obligations to same
obligations to same
§ 18(c).
necessary for the
Generally immune on
degree as resident
degree as resident
independent exercise
same basis as
representatives.
representatives.
of their functions.
diplomatic envoys.
UNCPI, § 11(d), (g);
UNCPI, § 19;
UNCPI, § 22.
UNHQA, §. 15;
VCDR, art. 35.
VCDR, art. 35.
UNCPI, § 11(g). In
U.S., immune from all
public service and
military obligations.
VCDR, art. 35.

CRS-23
Provision
Resident
Representatives of
Secretary General,
Designated U.N.
Experts on U.N.
Representatives of
Member States
Assistant
Officials
Missions
Member States
(generally)
Secretaries General,
Their Spouses and
Minor Children

Immigration
Exempt, along with
Along with spouses,
Exempt, along with
Along with spouses
No express
spouses, from
same as resident
spouses and
and dependent
immunity, beyond
immigration restriction
representatives.
dependent relatives,
relatives, same as
general immunity
and alien registration
UNCPI,§ 11(d), (g).
from immigration
Secretary General.
necessary for the
requirements. UNCPI,
restrictions and alien
UNCPI,§ 18(d).
independent exercise
§ 11(d). Generally
restrictions. UNCPI,
of their functions.
immune on same basis
§§ 18(d), 19.
UNCPI, § 22.
as diplomatic envoys.
UNHQA, § 15;
UNCPI, § 11(g).

CRS-24
Chart 4: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to Persons Under the IOIA and Other
Relevant Domestic Statutes

Provision
Foreign Representatives to, and Officials and Employees
of, International Organizations

Definition
Not specifically defined by statute.
Criminal Jurisdiction
Immune with respect to official acts falling within their
functions. IOIA, § 288d(b).
Civil Jurisdiction
Immune with respect to official acts falling within their
functions. IOIA, § 288d(b).
Judicial Process
Immune with respect to official acts falling within their
functions. IOIA, § 288d(b).
Taxes
Exempt from tax on compensation for official services except
where employed by a foreign government that does not grant
an equivalent exemption to U.S. government employees. 26
U.S.C. § 893.
Customs
Immune, along with immediate household family members,
from duties with respect to baggage and effects imported in
connection with the arrival of the owner. IOIA, § 288(b).
Social Security
Exempt from Social Security contributions related to
employment in or representation to the international
organization. 26 U.S.C. § 3121(b)(15).
Military Service, Public Service
No immunity under IOIA. Exemption from military service
apparently depends on previous service abroad, applicable
treaties, and immigration status. 50 App. U.S.C. § 456(a)(1).
Immigration
Exempt, along with immediate household family members,
from immigration and alien registration requirements on same
basis as officers and employees, respectively, of foreign
governments and their families. IOIA, § 288d(a).

CRS-25
Chart 5: Privileges and Immunities Accorded to U.N. Representatives and Employees
Under the IOIA, UNCPI, UNHQA, VCDR, and Related Statutes and Agreements

The United Nations and specified officials, employees, and representatives to the organization are accorded a number
of privileges and immunities by a series of interrelated statutes and treaties. In some cases, the immunities accorded to the
organization and specified officials, employees, and U.N. representatives are explicit; in other cases, they are established
via cross-reference to other sources of law. This chart details the scope of such immunities, as governed by the International
Organizations Immunities Act, the U.N. Convention on Privileges and Immunities, the U.N. Headquarters Agreement, and,
by cross-reference, the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Where appropriate, immunities provided by related
U.S. statutes are also listed.
Provision
Resident Represen-
Representa-
Secretary
Designated
Non-desig-
Experts on
tatives of Member
tives of Mem-
General, As-
U.N. Officials
nated U.N.
U.N. Missions
States
ber States (gen-
sistant Secre-
Officials and
erally)
taries Gen-
U.N. Employ-
eral, Their
ees
Spouses and
Minor Chil-
dren

Definition
All delegates, deputy
All delegates,
Not expressly
Individuals
Not expressly
Not expressly
delegates, advisors,
deputy dele-
defined.
falling within
defined.
defined.
technical experts and
gates, advisers,
categories of
designated by Mem-
technical ex-
officials des-
ber State with agree-
perts and secre-
ignated by the
ment, where rele-
taries of delega-
Secretary-
vant, of the U.N. or
tions. UNCPI, §
General as
United States.
16.
entitled to
UNHQA, § 15.
immunities.
UNCPI, §17.
Criminal
Same as diplomatic
Same as resi-
Same as resi-
Immune with
Same as des-
Immune from
Jurisdiction
envoys. UNCPI, §
dent representa-
dent represen-
respect to offi-
ignated U.N.
personal arrest
11(g); UNHQA, §
tives (i.e., re-
tatives (i.e.,
cial acts.
officials.
and detention.
15. In U.S., ac-
ceive same im-
receive same
UNCPI,§
IOIA, §
UNCPI, §

CRS-26
Provision
Resident Represen-
Representa-
Secretary
Designated
Non-desig-
Experts on
tatives of Member
tives of Mem-
General, As-
U.N. Officials
nated U.N.
U.N. Missions
States
ber States (gen-
sistant Secre-
Officials and
erally)
taries Gen-
U.N. Employ-
eral, Their
ees
Spouses and
Minor Chil-
dren

corded full immunity
munities ac-
immunities
18(a); IOIA, §
288d(b).
22(a). Immune
from criminal juris-
corded to diplo-
accorded to
288d(b).
with respect to
diction. VCDR, art.
matic envoys).
diplomatic
official acts.
31(1).
UNCPI, § 11(g);
envoys).
UNCPI, §
VCDR, art.
UNCPI, § 19;
22(b); IOIA, §
31(1).
VCDR, art.
288d(b).
31(1).
Civil Juris-
Same as diplomatic
Same as resi-
Same as resi-
Immune with
Same as des-
Same as
diction
envoys. UNCPI, §
dent representa-
dent represen-
respect to offi-
ignated U.N.
designated
11(g); UNHQA, §
tives (i.e., re-
tatives (i.e.,
cial acts.
officials.
U.N. officials.
15. In U.S., immune
ceive same im-
receive same
UNCPI, §
IOIA, §
UNCPI, §
except for (a) certain
munities ac-
immunities
18(a); IOIA, §
288d(b).
22(b); IOIA, §
actions relating to
corded to diplo-
accorded to
288d(b).
288d(b).
real property, (b)
matic envoys).
diplomatic
estate matters in
UNCPI, § 11(g);
envoys).
which the agent is
VCDR, art.
UNCPI, § 19;
acting as private
31(1).
VCDR, art.
party, and (c) actions
31(1). Must
relating to private
have vehicle
professional or com-
insurance un-
mercial activities.
der 22 U.S.C.
VCDR, art. 31(1).
§ 254e.
Judicial
Receive same immu-
Same as resi-
Same as resi-
Immune with
Same as des-
Same as
Process
nities as diplomatic
dent representa-
dent represen-
respect to offi-
ignated U.N.
designated
envoys. UNCPI, §
tives (i.e., re-
tatives (i.e.,
cial acts.
officials.
U.N. officials.
11(g); UNHQA, §
ceive same im-
receive same
UNCPI, §
IOIA, §
UNCPI, §
15. Immune from
munities ac-
immunities
18(a); IOIA, §
288d(b).
22(b).
obligation to give
corded to diplo-
accorded to
288d(b).

CRS-27
Provision
Resident Represen-
Representa-
Secretary
Designated
Non-desig-
Experts on
tatives of Member
tives of Mem-
General, As-
U.N. Officials
nated U.N.
U.N. Missions
States
ber States (gen-
sistant Secre-
Officials and
erally)
taries Gen-
U.N. Employ-
eral, Their
ees
Spouses and
Minor Chil-
dren

evidence. Immune
matic envoys).
diplomatic
from execution of
UNCPI, § 11(g);
envoys).
judgments except in
VCDR, arts. 30,
UNCPI, §
non-immune civil
31(2)- (3).
11(g); VCDR,
action where execu-
arts. 30, 31(2)-
tion will not infringe
(3).
on the inviolability
of his person or resi-
dence. VCDR, art.
31(2)-(3). Private
residence deemed
inviolable to same
degree as diplomatic
mission. VCDR, art.
30.
Taxes
Same as diplomatic
Same as resi-
Same as resi-
Immune from
Immune from
If employed by
envoys. UNHQA, §
dent representa-
dent represen-
taxes on sala-
taxes on sala-
the U.N.,
15. Immune from
tives (i.e., re-
tatives (i.e.,
ries and emol-
ries and emol-
immune from
taxes other than (a)
ceive same im-
receive same
uments paid
uments paid
taxes on
indirect taxes in
munities as dip-
immunities as
by the U.N.
by the U.N. 26
salaries and
price of
lomatic envoys),
diplomatic
UNCPI, §
U.S.C. § 893.
emoluments
goods/services; (b)
except with re-
envoys).
18(b).
paid by the
real property
spect to excise
UNCPI, § 19.
U.N. 26 U.S.C.
taxes/fees on private
duties and sales
§ 893. Have
property, unless held
taxes. UNCPI, §
general
on behalf of sending
11(g).
immunity
State; (c) estate or
necessary for
inheritance taxes on
the independent
property other than
exercise of

CRS-28
Provision
Resident Represen-
Representa-
Secretary
Designated
Non-desig-
Experts on
tatives of Member
tives of Mem-
General, As-
U.N. Officials
nated U.N.
U.N. Missions
States
ber States (gen-
sistant Secre-
Officials and
erally)
taries Gen-
U.N. Employ-
eral, Their
ees
Spouses and
Minor Chil-
dren

that brought from
functions.
sending State; (d)
UNCPI, § 22.
income tax on pri-
vate U.S. income; (e)
charges for specific
services; and (f) reg-
istration, court or
record fees, mort-
gage dues and stamp
duty, with respect to
non-mission, im-
movable, property.
VCDR, art. 34.
Customs
Same as diplomatic
Same as resi-
Same as resi-
Immune,
Same as des-
Same
envoys. UNCPI, §
dent representa-
dent represen-
along with
ignated U.N.
immunities as
11(g); UNHQA, §
tives, including
tatives, includ-
immediate
officials.
resident
15. Immune from
with respect to
ing with re-
household
IOIA, §
representatives
duties on articles for
immunities ac-
spect to im-
family mem-
288(b).
with respect to
personal or official
corded to imme-
munities ac-
bers, from
personal
use. In U.S., exempt
diate household
corded to im-
duties with
baggage.
from inspection ex-
family mem-
mediate
respect to bag-
UNCPI, §
cept where there are
bers. UNCPI, §
household
gage and ef-
22(f); VCDR,
serious grounds to
11(g); VCDR,
family mem-
fects imported
art. 36. If
believe there are
art. 36; IOIA, §
bers. UNCPI,
in connection
employed by
contraband articles
288(b).
§ 11(g);
with the ar-
U.N., experts
or articles not for
VCDR, art.
rival of the
and immediate
personal or official
36; IOIA, §
owner. IOIA,
household
use. VCDR, art. 36.
288(b).
§ 288(b).
family
Immediate house-
members are

CRS-29
Provision
Resident Represen-
Representa-
Secretary
Designated
Non-desig-
Experts on
tatives of Member
tives of Mem-
General, As-
U.N. Officials
nated U.N.
U.N. Missions
States
ber States (gen-
sistant Secre-
Officials and
erally)
taries Gen-
U.N. Employ-
eral, Their
ees
Spouses and
Minor Chil-
dren

hold family members
immune from
are immune from
duties with
duties with respect to
respect to
baggage and effects
baggage and
imported in connec-
effects
tion with the arrival
imported in
of the owner. IOIA,
connection
§ 288(b).
with the arrival
of the owner.
IOIA, § 288(b).
Social Se-
Same as diplomatic
Same as resi-
Same as resi-
Exempt from
Same as des-
General
curity
envoys. UNCPI, §
dent representa-
dent represen-
Social Secu-
ignated U.N.
immunity
11(g); UNHQA, §
tives (i.e., re-
tatives (i.e.,
rity contribu-
officials. 26
necessary for
15. Exempt with
ceive same im-
receive same
tions related to
U.S.C. §
the independent
respect to services
munities as dip-
immunities as
employment
3121(b)(15).
exercise of
rendered for the
lomatic envoys).
diplomatic
in or represen-
their functions.
sending State. Not
UNCPI, § 11(g);
envoys).
tation to the
UNCPI, § 22. If
exempt with respect
VCDR, art.
UNCPI, § 19;
international
employed by
to personal servants
33(1)-(2).
VCDR, art.
organization.
U.N., same
who are U.S. nation-
33(1)-(2).
26 U.S.C. §
immunity as
als or permanent
3121(b)(15).
designated
residents, or are not
U.N. officials.
covered by social
26 U.S.C.
security provisions
3121(b)(15).
of the sending State
or a third State.
VCDR, art. 33(1)-
(2).

CRS-30
Provision
Resident Represen-
Representa-
Secretary
Designated
Non-desig-
Experts on
tatives of Member
tives of Mem-
General, As-
U.N. Officials
nated U.N.
U.N. Missions
States
ber States (gen-
sistant Secre-
Officials and
erally)
taries Gen-
U.N. Employ-
eral, Their
ees
Spouses and
Minor Chil-
dren

Military
Exempt, along with
Exempt, along
Exempt, along
Exempt from
No express
No express
Service,
spouses, from na-
with spouses, to
with spouses,
national ser-
immunity.
immunity,
Public Ser-
tional service obliga-
same degree as
to same de-
vice obliga-
Exemption
beyond general
vice
tions. UNCPI, §
resident repre-
gree as resi-
tions. UNCPI,
apparently
immunity
11(d). Generally im-
sentatives (i.e.,
dent represen-
§ 18(c).
depends on
necessary for
mune on same basis
immune on
tatives (i.e.,
previous ser-
the independent
as diplomatic en-
same basis as
immune on
vice abroad,
exercise of
voys. UNHQA, §.
diplomatic en-
same basis as
applicable
their functions.
15; UNCPI, § 11(g).
voys). UNCPI, §
diplomatic
treaties, and
UNCPI, § 22.
In U.S., immune
11(g); VCDR,
envoys).
immigration
Exemption
from all public ser-
art. 35.
UNCPI, § 19;
status. 50
apparently
vice and military
VCDR, art.
App. U.S.C. §
depends on
obligations. VCDR,
35.
456(a)(1).
previous
art. 35.
service abroad,
applicable
treaties, and
immigration
status. 50 App.
U.S.C. §
456(a)(1).
Immigra-
Exempt, along with
Same as resi-
Exempt, along
Same as Sec-
Exempt, along
No express
tion
spouses, from immi-
dent representa-
with spouses
retary General
with immedi-
immunity,
gration restriction
tives (including
and dependent
(including
ate household
beyond that
and alien registration
with respect to
relatives, from
with respect to
family mem-
necessary for
requirements.
immunities ac-
immigration
immunities
bers, from
the independent
UNCPI, § 11(d).
corded to
restrictions
accorded to
immigration
exercise of
Other immediate
spouses and
and alien re-
spouses, de-
and alien reg-
their functions.
household family
other immediate
strictions.
pendent rela-
istration re-
UNCPI, § 22.
members are also
household fam-
UNCPI, §§
tives, and
quirements on
If employed by

CRS-31
Provision
Resident Represen-
Representa-
Secretary
Designated
Non-desig-
Experts on
tatives of Member
tives of Mem-
General, As-
U.N. Officials
nated U.N.
U.N. Missions
States
ber States (gen-
sistant Secre-
Officials and
erally)
taries Gen-
U.N. Employ-
eral, Their
ees
Spouses and
Minor Chil-
dren

exempt from immi-
ily members).
18(d), 19.
other immedi-
same basis as
U.N., exempt,
gration and alien
UNCPI, § 11(d);
Other immedi-
ate household
officers and
along with
registration require-
IOIA, § 288d(a). ate household
family mem-
employees,
immediate
ments on same basis
family mem-
bers). UNCPI,
respectively,
household
as officers of foreign
bers are also
§§ 18(d), 19;
of foreign
family
governments and
exempt from
IOIA, §
governments
members to
their families. IOIA,
immigration
288d(a).
and their fam-
same degree as
§ 288d(a).
and alien reg-
ilies. IOIA, §
other U.N.
istration re-
288d(a).
employees.
quirements on
IOIA, §
same basis as
288d(a).
officers of
foreign gov-
ernments and
their families.
IOIA, §
288d(a).