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2017-2021 ARCHIVED CONTENT

You are viewing ARCHIVED CONTENT released online from January 20, 2017 to January 20, 2021.

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Our Mission

The Office of the Chief of Protocol seeks to advance the foreign policy goals of the United States by creating an environment for successful diplomacy. Our team extends the first hand that welcomes presidents, prime ministers, ruling monarchs, and other leaders to our country. By serving on the front lines of diplomatic engagement, we promote cross-cultural exchange and build new bridges of understanding between people and governments around the world.

Key Topics

Protocol Reference

Find details on protocol for hosting events and answers to some of the most frequently asked protocol questions.

Learn More About Protocol for Hosting Events Protocol Reference

Resources for Foreign Embassies

Resources include the Order of Precedence, Deans of the Diplomatic Corps, airport escort screening courtesies, port courtesies, information for domestic workers, and the diplomatic list.

Learn More About the Foreign Diplomatic Order of Precedence Resources for Foreign Embassies

Divisions

We invite you to learn more about the Office of the Chief of Protocol by exploring the work of our divisions and units.

Learn More About the Office of the Chief of Protocol Divisions

Order of Precedence

The United States Order of Precedence is an advisory document maintained by the Ceremonials Division. For purposes of protocol, the U.S. Order of Precedence establishes the order and ranking of U.S. leadership for official events at home and abroad.

Learn More About the United States Order of Precedence Order of Precedence

U.S. Department of State

The Lessons of 1989: Freedom and Our Future