In the past, foreign service family members were limited to working at the Mission or volunteering during their position due to their diplomatic or consular status. To increase employment opportunities for family members, bilateral labor agreements (treaties) are concluded between the United States and a single country. These work arrangements allow accredited spouses and dependent children of U.S. government employees assigned to official assignments at an embassy or consulate in one of these countries to seek employment in the local economy. Spouses and same-sex partners should contact post-employment HR to find out if they are eligible for a work permit. Family members who work in the local economy without permission are likely to work illegally and potentially endanger themselves and their missions. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations require that persons enjoying the privileges and immunities of the receiving State comply with laws and regulations. Similarly, Article 3 FAM 4125(a)(1) provides that family members may only work in the local economy if this is compatible with local law. This provision implements U.S. Section 2699(b) of Section 22.C. which provides in part that family members of Foreign Service Officers (FSOs) may accept employment abroad unless the employment violates U.S. or local law.

For eligible family members (EFMs), it is essential to obtain the approval of the Head of Mission if a family member plans to work outside the Mission. Based on the factual reciprocity established by precedents, accredited spouses and dependent children of U.S. government employees performing official service at an embassy or consulate in the following countries may apply for work permits through certain channels. Foreign service family members seeking employment in the local economy abroad, whether they are interested in international affairs, teaching at a local school or self-employed, should be familiar with the work permit regulations in their host country. 1 Limited number of family members allowed to work. .