After the ceremonial presentation of credentials and a brief word with the Federal President, the flag of the ambassador's home country is hoisted when he or she leaves Bellevue Palace. Two soldiers from the Federal Ministry of Defence Guard Battalion hoist the guest flag ceremonially on the middle of the three flagpoles in front of the official residence, between the European flag and the federal flag.

Ceremonial flag-raising and lowering at ambassador accreditation ceremonies (Larger version opens in new window) Source: Protokoll Inland

An honour detachment with drummers marches to the steps, and a trumpeter plays a signal when the flag is fully hoisted. Then the ambassador leaves the ceremonial courtyard of Bellevue Palace, escorted as at his or her arrival by five motorcycle officers from the Berlin police.

After the ambassador’s introductory call, the guest flag is ceremonially lowered, folded and returned to the guardhouse.