By Gülfem Dodur

‍

‍

The Federal Foreign Office plans to hire approximately 30 attachés for the Higher Foreign Service starting in May 2027. Applications will be accepted until July 28, 2026. Successful candidates will then complete a 14-month (paid) preparatory service before taking on assignments in Berlin and within Germany’s global diplomatic network, which includes approximately 230 embassies, consulates, and permanent missions.

‍

As the world continues to face an increasingly complex international environment defined by geopolitical rivalries, Russia's war against Ukraine, growing competition between major powers, climate diplomacy, and rising demands for crisis management, Germany's future diplomats will be responsible for representing the country's interests across its global network of diplomatic missions.

‍

A Broad Spectrum of Diplomatic Tasks

‍

According to the Federal Foreign Office, the new diplomats will be active in a wide range of foreign policy areas. These range from bilateral relations to European Union affairs, international security, economic diplomacy, human rights, and humanitarian aid, as well as development cooperation and international law.

‍

In addition, the junior diplomats are expected to assume leadership responsibilities early on, manage budgets and personnel, and monitor and analyze political, economic, and social developments in their countries of assignment.

‍

The selected candidates will begin their training on May 3 of next year at the Federal Foreign Office Academy in Berlin-Tegel. The 14-month program combines diplomatic training, public administration, language instruction, and preparation for international assignments before graduates begin their careers as civil servants in the Higher Foreign Service.

‍

Qualifications and Selection Process

‍

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is seeking applicants from all fields of study, but notes a particular need for graduates in law and economics. Candidates must hold a master’s degree or an equivalent university degree requiring at least five years of study, be native speakers of German, demonstrate advanced proficiency in English, and demonstrate proficiency in French or another strategically important language, including Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, or Ukrainian.

‍

Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process that includes a written online exam in September, oral interviews in Berlin in November, language tests, and an extensive security clearance. In addition, candidates must be physically fit for worldwide assignments and demonstrate a willingness to accept international transfers, as postings typically alternate every three to four years between Berlin and diplomatic missions abroad.

‍

Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.