követség

Követség is the diplomatic mission of one sovereign state in another country, consisting of the building and the diplomatic staff that maintain official relations. The mission is headed by a nagykövet (ambassador), who is the chief representative accredited to the host government. If no ambassador is appointed, the mission may be led by a chargé d’affaires. The embassy's primary functions include representing the sending state, protecting its citizens, negotiating with the host government, reporting on political and economic developments, and promoting bilateral relations.

The embassy also provides consular services to nationals and to foreign residents, such as visa processing, passport services, assistance in emergencies, and notarization of documents. In addition, many embassies coordinate economic, cultural, scientific, and educational exchanges, working through specialized sections and attachés (for example, political, economic, cultural, military).

The Hungarian term követség can refer to the institution as a whole or to the body of envoys sent by the state. It is distinct from a konzulátus (consulate), which handles many civil-services tasks closer to everyday travel and local affairs, often in major cities other than the capital. The concept has historical roots in medieval and early modern diplomacy, when courts sent permanent or semi-permanent envoys to foreign monarchs to manage relations and protect interests.