On 24 April 1963, in Vienna, the UN Conference on Consular Relations adopts the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, opened for signature the same day.

The text codifies consular law: consular functions, inviolability of premises and archives, officials’ immunities, communication with sending-state nationals and notification of arrest (Article 36 — later the basis of ICJ jurisprudence in consular cases).

The depositary is the UN Secretary-General; authentic languages: Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish. Entry into force: 19 March 1967.

The Convention complements the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Nearly all UN states are parties; disputes on interpretation may reach the ICJ if states accept the optional clause.

Optional protocols of 1963 cover compulsory dispute settlement and acquisition of nationality. Modern consular practice — from visas to assistance for detainees — rests on this text.

The official text is on the UNTC and the UN website. Article 36 was invoked in landmark cases (Avena, LaGrand) on consular notification of foreign detainees.

The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 24 April 1963 remains the constitution of universal consular law.

Image: Vienna; Wikimedia Commons. Cropped to 16:9.

Source consulted: Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. Treaty text: Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (UNTC).