Embassy
A diplomatic mission is a diplomatic representation (more commonly referred to as embassy) of the sending State (accrediting State) with the host State (receiving State). A diplomatic mission may be led by an ambassador, chargé d'affaires ad interim, or chargé d'affaires en pied. The creation of such a diplomatic mission presupposes the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two States.
Consulate general, Consulate
The consulate is a consular post of the sending State in the host State, the setting up of which is based on the establishment of consular relations.
A consular post can be divided into four classes: the consulate general, the consulate, the vice-consulate or the consular agency. In principle, each of these posts is headed by a head of mission with a corresponding title (e.g. consulate general headed by a consul general, etc.).
Permanent representation
One speaks of permanent representation in the context of a State’s diplomatic mission to an intergovernmental organisation.