Menu Office Home About Us Key Topics Resources Contact Us HomeEmployment Resources for Family Members Returning to the United States ...Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps hide Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps Global Community Liaison Office FSFRC FAQs Important The FSFRC vacancy window opens quarterly, every January, April, July and October from the 15th to the 28th of the corresponding month. Indicate your position as shown on your current SF-50 (found in block 7 or 15) when applying. Do not wait to apply using a DS-5137 if currently working at post. The sooner the better! Know if you are listed on the final version of your sponsor’s OF-126 (Foreign Service Residency and Dependent Report) or the employee sponsor’s agency equivalent for non-DOS employees. This is imperative to FSFRC membership! For DOS applicants, the TMFour (Travel Authorization), not the TMOne (Assignment Notification), is required for FSFRC purposes. Contents FSFRC Overview How to Apply Determine Eligibility Determine When and How to Apply Determine Documentation Needed for the USAJOBS Application Application Process Maintaining Membership in the FSFRC Overseas FSFRC Reserve Status Urgent Hiring FSFRC Frequently Asked Questions Answers to FSFRC Frequently Asked Questions FSFRC Overview To more quickly mobilize Appointment Eligible Family Members (AEFMs) to fill available positions in missions overseas, the U.S. Department of State developed the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC). Upon acceptance, AEFMs are appointed into a Family Member Appointment (FMA) without compensation or benefits, allowing the Department of State to improve efficiency in the hiring process when filling positions at posts abroad. GCLO and Talent Services created an informative video to provide an overview of the FSFRC, the advantages of enrolling, and best practices for applying via USAJOBS. For general questions about the FSFRC, email FSFRC@state.gov. Family members who meet eligibility requirements should apply as soon as possible since the application evaluation process averages from three to six months. How to Apply Determine Eligibility An individual who meets all the following criteria is eligible to be an FSFRC member: Is a U.S. citizen; and Is the spouse or domestic partner (as defined in 3 FAM 1610) of a sponsoring employee (i.e., a direct-hire Foreign Service, Civil Service, or uniformed service member); and Is the spouse or domestic partner (as defined in 3 FAM 1610) of a sponsoring employee (i.e., a direct-hire Foreign Service, Civil Service, or uniformed service member); an Is either: listed on the travel orders (TMFOUR) of a sponsoring employee for a post abroad at a U.S. mission under Chief of Mission authority (to include the American Institute in Taiwan), or listed on the GTM/EX approved Form OF-126, Foreign Service Residence and Dependency Report, or has a letter from the sponsoring employee’s agency stating that they are the spouse or domestic partner of the sponsoring employee and that their sponsor is expected to serve at an overseas post under Chief of Mission authority (to include the American Institute in Taiwan) in the next 12 months; and Is not receiving a U.S. Government retirement annuity or pension from a career in the U.S. Foreign Service or Civil Service; and Is not a Foreign Service Officer in Leave Without Pay (LWOP) status; and Is not a Civil Service employee with re-employment rights to their agency or bureau; and Is not currently a hired and appointed CA-AEFM. (See Eligibility FAQs #15 and #16) Meet the Criteria Above? Yes: Determine When and How to Apply No: Not eligible for FSFRC membership Determine When and How to Apply Applicant When How Notes Department of State (DOS) Employee Overseas working on an FMA or TEMP Assignment Now DS-5137 via myData or Form Finder Incomplete or improperly submitted forms will be returned to the applicant. Handwritten or scanned applications will not be accepted. Additional Guidance: Application Process DOS Employee in a Domestic Civil Service Position * Those who are in Leave Without Pay (LWOP) status are not eligible for membership. A minimum of 30 days prior to but no more than six months prior to the departure date from the position *Applications cannot be fully adjudicated until the employee leaves his/her domestic position. DS-5137 (note the date of termination) via myData or Form Finder See notes above Former DOS Overseas Employee in INWS Now DS-5137 via Form Finder. See notes above USAID Employee Overseas working on an FMA Assignment When no longer on a USAID appointment and the quarterly USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement (VA) is open. When the EFM leaves USAID and wants to re-enroll in the FSFRC, they must apply via the USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement. Using login.gov to get to USAJOBS.gov Dates for upcoming vacancy announcements will be posted on this webpage, the GCLO Weekly newsletter, and GCLO’s Facebook page . Subscribe to GCLO Weekly: GCLOPublications@state.gov. Not Employed When the quarterly FSFRC Vacancy Announcement (VA) is open USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement Using login.gov to get to USAJOBS.gov See notes above Employed Outside of the Government When the FSFRC Vacancy Announcement (VA) is open USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement See notes above Employed by a Non-DOS Government Agency After resignation* and when VA is open *EFMs in LWOP status with another agency are not eligible for FSFRC membership *PSC and Third Party Contractors can only apply three months prior to the end date of employment and cannot be appointed until the contract has ended. USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement See notes above Employed on a Personal Services Agreement (PSA) After resignation* and when VA is open *EFMs in LWOP status with another agency are not eligible for FSFRC membership *PSC and Third Party Contractors can only apply three months prior to the end date of employment and cannot be appointed until the contract has ended. USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement See notes above Employed on a Personal Services Contract (PSC) After resignation* and when VA is open *EFMs in LWOP status with another agency are not eligible for FSFRC membership *PSC and Third Party Contractors can only apply three months prior to the end date of employment and cannot be appointed until the contract has ended. USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement See notes above Employed by Third Party Government Contractor After resignation* and when VA is open *EFMs in LWOP status with another agency are not eligible for FSFRC membership *PSC and Third Party Contractors can only apply three months prior to the end date of employment and cannot be appointed until the contract has ended. USAJOBS Vacancy Announcement See notes above Applying for Enrollment in the FSFRC on USAJOBS.gov? Yes: Review announcement to determine documentation required for application. Determine Documentation Needed for the USAJOBS Application The following documents must be submitted at the time of application for the application to be considered: Resume Agency approved/signed by authorized official OF 126 Foreign Service Residence and Dependency Report or the employee sponsor’s agency equivalent for non-Department of State employees OR (TMFOUR) Travel Authorization Orders of sponsoring employee or the employee sponsor’s agency equivalent for non-Department of State (TMONE Assignment Notifications do not meet this requirement; initial travel orders for onboarding in Washington, DC do not meet this requirement). Application Process AEFMs Currently Employed on an FMA or TEMP Appointment, in INWS, or Employed by the Department of State in a Civil Service Position Eligibility to Apply The following family members are eligible to apply for membership in the FSFRC by completing Form DS-5137: Those currently employed at post under a Family Member Appointment (FMA) or Temporary (TEMP) Appointment at the time of application; or Those currently working in a Department of State Civil Service (CS) position domestically who are on their sponsoring employee’s travel orders (or other agency equivalent) to a post abroad with an upcoming transfer date within the next six months. Please be aware that we are unable to fully adjudicate these applications until the employee departs their CS position. Please note that CS employees who have been placed in Leave Without Pay (LWOP) status and intend to return to their current CS position are not eligible for membership in the FSFRC. Application or Declination Form Submission Process Family members who meet the above criteria may either apply for membership or decline membership by completing the appropriate form (DS-5137A FSFRC Membership Application or DS-5137D FSFRC Membership Declination), available on myData via OpenNet and Form Finder. Eligible AEFMs should apply as soon as possible to allow sufficient time for application adjudication,but no later than 30 days in advance of their estimated departure date from their direct hire position at post. Read the instructions included on the DS-5137 form carefully. Incomplete or improperly submitted forms will be returned to the applicant without being processed. Applications will only be accepted if submitted directly by the EFM. Handwritten or scanned applications will not be accepted. Family members who may have bookmarked an old link or application form or who may have previously submitted an application that was denied, and are now eligible to apply, should not re-submit the previously completed application. Instead, complete a new application and submit it via OpenNet. Applicants will receive an auto-reply from GTM/TS when the their membership form has been received, as well as additional notifications throughout the adjudication process, and a final notification upon acceptance into the FSFRC.Applicants are not members of the FSFRC until they have received confirmation from GTM/TS. Maintaining Membership in the FSFRC When not employed in a local position, FSFRC members are required to recertify: every year for members in categories ONE (Top Secret) and TWO (Secret), and, every 5 years for members in category THREE (Public Trust). Talent Services contacts members approximately 30 days prior to their recertification date regarding the recertification requirements. Guidance on accepting a contract position (to include PSA, PSC, or third-party contractor position), Civil Service position, or other Federal Agency position (including USAID FMA) (see Membership Retention and Resignation FAQs). Policies concerning termination and resignation from the FSFRC are in 3 FAM 8220. Overseas FSFRC Reserve Status Urgent Hiring The Director General is committed to creating an agile and inclusive workforce that includes our eligible family members. To support those efforts, the Department of State is currently offering an Overseas Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC) Reserve Status Urgent Hire pilot. The pilot aims to support post staffing gaps while allowing FSFRC reserve status members opportunities to temporarily fill U.S. Direct Hire (USDH) and EFM gaps at posts in their region. Posts interested in the pilot should contact GTM/OE at OE Helps on SharePoint. As these and other opportunities develop, AEFMs in the FSFRC can learn about them on Agility@State.gov in the “Overseas TDY” section or through GCLO’s The Network. FSFRC Frequently Asked Questions Eligibility Questions How Do I Apply? Questions Notification Questions Clearances Questions Membership Retention and Resignation Questions Hiring Preference Questions Miscellaneous Questions Eligibility Who is eligible to apply to join the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC)? May a family member apply to join the FSFRC without ever having worked for the Department of State? Must a family member be currently working in an overseas position to join the FSFRC? Is a family member whose sponsoring employee is with a non-State agency eligible to apply to join the FSFRC? Are family members who are currently receiving a FS or CS annuity eligible to apply to join the FSFRC? May FS Generalists and Specialists in LWOP status (e.g., tandems) apply to join the FSFRC? If my EFM child(ren) accompany me to post, can they apply for the FSFRC? My spouse works for the U.S. government outside of the U.S. but is not under Chief of Mission authority. Am I eligible to join the FSFRC? I am currently employed as either a third party government contractor or under a Personal Services Contract. Am I eligible to apply for the FSFRC? Can I apply to the FSFRC while my sponsoring employee is serving in a domestic assignment? I am a civil service (CS) employee with Department of State and will be accompanying my sponsoring employee overseas as an AEFM. How do I apply for FSFRC membership? I am civil service (CS) employee with another agency and will be accompanying my sponsoring employee overseas as an AEFM. How do I apply for FSFRC membership? Are family members who are currently employed on a TEMP Appointment with an intermittent work schedule eligible to join the FSFRC? Will Overseas Seasonal Hire Program (OSHP) participants be eligible for FSFRC membership? I’m a Consular Affairs-Appointment Eligible Family Member Program (CA-AEFM) on a Family Member Limited Non-career Appointment with the Department of State. May I join the FSFRC? I’m a certified Consular Affairs-Appointment Eligible Family Member Program (CA-AEFM) that has completed all the assessments, holds a TS clearance, and has received a letter that I’ve been fully certified as a CA-AEFM. However, I’ve not been hired or appointed yet as a CA-AEFM. May I join the FSFRC? How Do I Apply? I am currently employed with the Department of State, how do I apply to become a member of the FSFRC? I am not currently employed with the Department of State, how do I apply to become a member of the FSFRC? What documents do I need to submit as part of my application package for the FSFRC open enrollment when applying to the USAJOBS vacancy announcement? I am not currently employed with the Department of State and the vacancy announcement on USAJOBS has closed. How do I submit my application? I live overseas and have heard it’s hard to establish a USAJOBS account because of the authentication process. How can I get a login? I am having trouble with USAJOBS. Who do I contact for technical support? If the USAJOBS vacancy announcement closes before I’m able to submit my application, will I still be able to apply for jobs at post? Should I apply for FSFRC membership? May a family member apply to join the FSFRC if they do not yet have a security clearance? Will the family members of newly hired sponsoring employees be able to join the FSFRC? Can my spouse, HRO, Management Officer, etc. submit my FSFRC application for me? Can I get a security clearance automatically by becoming a member of the Foreign Service Reserve Corps (FSFRC)? What are the different categories of FSFRC membership? When should AEFMs currently employed by DOS apply for FSFRC membership? If an AEFM has already accepted a position at their next post, do they still apply for the FSFRC? If an AEFM does not apply for FSFRC membership before departing their position at post will their Family Member Appointment be terminated? Will AEFMs who apply for the FSFRC before departing post be placed in INWS after departing post or while the application is being adjudicated and processed? If I am working on a Personal Services Agreement (PSA), Personal Services Contract (PSC), or as a third party government contractor, can I apply to the FSFRC now? Notification Will family members receive notification when they are accepted in the FSFRC? How can I confirm that my application was received and /or find out the status of the application? Why would paper copies of SF-50s be issued, instead of email? Paper copies could be lost in the mail during PCS transitions. How soon after I submit my application to join the FSFRC will I be notified of my status? Will everyone who applies for the FSFRC be accepted? Clearances Do I automatically get a clearance if I join the FSFRC? What will happen to my current clearance if I join the FSFRC? May family members who have security clearances granted by non-State agencies (e.g., DOD) join the FSFRC and have their clearances accepted by State? As an FSFRC member in Category 3 or Category 2 can I expect an expedited investigation and adjudication if my position at post requires a higher level clearance? If an FSFRC member currently holds a Secret clearance, can the HRO ask for an upgrade to a TS clearance? I’m not an FSFRC member but previously held a security clearance. Can that clearance be revalidated when I apply to FSFRC membership? If I am granted an interim clearance at a higher level than my current FSFRC membership category can my membership category be changed to reflect this? If an FSFRC member returns to the U.S., will they still be able to retain their membership and security clearance under the FSFRC? Does membership in the FSFRC allow for the investigation to continue if I depart Post prior to a higher level investigation being fully adjudicated? Could an applicant for the FSFRC meet security clearance requirements, but not be found suitable for membership in the FSFRC? If an AEFM has a higher level clearance investigation in process or has been granted an interim clearance, what clearance level should the AEFM indicate on their FSFRC application – their current clearance or the clearance requested and under investigation? If an FSFRC member is granted a higher level clearance, will they be able to change their FSFRC category? Will clearances be reinvestigated periodically during a member’s time in the FSFRC? In addition to security clearance reinvestigations, are other recertification actions required to remain in the FSFRC? Are FSFRC Members subject to reporting requirements, even when they are not actively working? If I am a Category 1 (Top Secret) member of the FSFRC and I accept a position at post which only requires a Secret clearance, will I retain my Category 1 FSFRC member status or will I be downgraded to Category 2 (Secret)? When a family member rejoins the FSFRC after having to resign, can they rejoin at the category they previously held, or must they rejoin at category 3? Membership Retention and Resignation What happens to my FSFRC membership if my sponsor returns for a domestic assignment in the U.S.? Will FSFRC members be able to retain their Non-competitive Eligibility (NCE) (E.O. 12721) when they resign from the FSFRC? Will I retain my Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC) membership if I accept a domestic Civil Service position? If I accept a domestic Civil Service (CS) position, how will my transition from FSFRC to CS be documented? Can an FSFRC member retain their FSFRC membership if they accept a position with an employment mechanism that is either a Personal Services Agreement (PSA), a Personal Services Contract (PSC), or as a third party government contractor? If I accept an FMA with USAID, does it impact my FSFRC status? Are FSFRC members in reserve status allowed to work outside the Department? When am I required to resign from the FSFRC? Can an FSFRC member who divorces a Foreign Service spouse remain a member of the FSFRC after the divorce is finalized? How do I resign from the FSFRC? If I am currently working at post on an appointment, am I required to recertify my eligibility to retain my FSFRC status? As an FSFRC member in reserve status, am I subject to the department’s ethical standards and conduct? What is the length of time that a member can remain in the FSFRC without working in a local position? If I change positions or depart post, do I need to re-apply to the FSFRC? Will my Grade and Step be updated on my FSFRC record as I change positions at post? Hiring Preferences Has the hiring preference changed to grant FSFRC members a preference over non-members? Miscellaneous What badge should be issued for an FSFRC member when they are appointed to a position at Post? Is FSFRC membership a prerequisite for EFM employment (e.g., Expanded Professional Associates Program)? How will family members from other agencies learn about the FSFRC before they come to post? What is the FSFRC reserve status? Answers to FSFRC Frequently Asked Questions Eligibility Answers How Do I Apply? Answers Notification Answers Clearances Answers Membership Retention and Resignation Answers Hiring Preference Answers Miscellaneous Answers Eligibility 1. Who is eligible to apply to join the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC)? An individual who meets all of the following criteria is considered to be an Appointment Eligible Family Member (AEFM) (3 FAM 7120) and eligible to apply to join the FSFRC:(1) Is a U.S. citizen;(2) Is the spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 of a sponsoring employee (as defined in 3 FAM 7120);(3) Is listed on one of the following:(a) Travel orders of a sponsoring employee who is assigned (not TDY) to a U.S. mission abroad under Chief of Mission authority, or at an office of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), or(b) An approved Form OF-126 , Foreign Service Residence and Dependency Report (or other agency equivalent), of a sponsoring employee who is assigned (not TDY) to a U.S. mission abroad under Chief of Mission authority, or at an office of the AIT, and is residing at the sponsoring employee’s post of assignment abroad;(4) Does not receive a U.S. Government retirement annuity or pension from a career in the U.S. Foreign Service or Civil Service;(5) Is not a Foreign Service Generalist or Specialist in Leave Without Pay (LWOP) status;(6) Is not a Civil Service employee with re-employment rights to their agency or bureau. Note1: U.S. citizen spouses/domestic partners as defined in 3 FAM 1610 of a sponsoring employee who are on approved Voluntary Separate Maintenance Allowance (VSMA) or Involuntary Separate Maintenance Allowance (ISMA) and are temporarily residing apart from the sponsoring employee are also eligible to apply to join the FSFRC. 2. May a family member apply to join the FSFRC without ever having worked for the Department of State? Yes. Previous employment with the Department of State is not required for membership in the FSFRC. 3. Must a family member be currently working in an overseas position to join the FSFRC? No. Any family member who meets the eligibility criteria may apply to join the FSFRC. 4. Is a family member whose sponsoring employee is with a non-State agency eligible to apply to join the FSFRC? Yes, if the family member meets the eligibility criteria, they may apply to join the FSFRC. 5. Are family members who are currently receiving a FS or CS annuity eligible to apply to join the FSFRC? No, FS and CS annuitants are ineligible for FSFRC membership. However, family members who are currently receiving a FS or CS annuity may still apply to work in the mission. If selected to fill the vacancy, they will be hired on a Personal Services Agreement (PSA). Family members who are currently receiving a Military annuity, and not a FS or CS annuity, are eligible to apply to join the FSFRC. 6. May FS Generalists and Specialists in LWOP status (e.g., tandems) apply to join the FSFRC? No. However, FS Generalists and Specialists in LWOP status may still apply to work in the mission. If selected to fill a vacant DOS position, they will be hired on a TEMP Appointment. 7. If my EFM child(ren) accompany me to post, can they apply for the FSFRC? No, the FSFRC is only open to U.S. citizen spouses and domestic partners (as defined in 3 FAM 1610) who meet the criteria for membership in the FSFRC. 8. My spouse works for the U.S. government outside of the U.S. but is not under Chief of Mission authority. Am I eligible to join the FSFRC? No. An FSFRC sponsoring employee must be a Direct Hire Foreign Service, Civil Service, or uniformed service member who is or will be permanently assigned to or stationed abroad at a U.S. mission or at an office of the American Institute in Taiwan and who is under Chief of Mission (COM) authority. 9. I am currently employed as either a third party government contractor or under a Personal Services Contract. Am I eligible to apply for the FSFRC? No, individuals who are currently employed as a third party government contractor or under a Personal Services Contract cannot be appointed to the FSFRC. However, when you are within 90 days of your contract end date, you are eligible to apply for the FSFRC but cannot be appointed to the FSFRC until your contract has ended. 10. Can I apply to the FSFRC while my sponsoring employee is serving in a domestic assignment? Yes, as long as you are either: Listed on the travel orders of a sponsoring employee for a post abroad at a U.S. mission under Chief of Mission authority, or at an office of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), or Listed on an GTM/EX approved Form OF-126, Foreign Service Residence and Dependency Report (or agency equivalent), of a sponsoring employee. Note: EFMs whose sponsoring employee is not employed by a Foreign Affairs Agency (i.e., STATE, USAID, FAS, FCS, and the BBG) or whose sponsoring employee does not yet have either of the documents above will be required to provide a letter documenting that the individual is the spouse or domestic partner of the sponsoring employee, the expectation that the sponsoring employee is expected to serve at an overseas post within the next 12 months, and that the EFM will accompany the sponsoring employee . 11. I am a civil service (CS) employee with Department of State and will be accompanying my sponsoring employee overseas as an AEFM. How do I apply for FSFRC membership? A Department of State CS employee resigning from their CS position may apply for FSFRC membership via MyData using the FSFRC Membership Form (DS-5137). It is important to apply a minimum of 30 days prior to but no more than six months prior to the departure date from the position. Please ensure you have communicated to your domestic HR specialist that you applied for FSFRC membership. Note that those who remain in CS Leave Without Pay (LWOP) status while accompanying their sponsoring employee are not eligible for membership. 12. I am civil service (CS) employee with another agency and will be accompanying my sponsoring employee overseas as an AEFM. How do I apply for FSFRC membership? A CS employee with a federal agency other than the Department of State is eligible to apply for FSFRC membership up to six months prior to their anticipated resignation date from their current CS position during open enrollment via the USAJOBS vacancy announcement. At the time of application, if the family member holds an active security clearance the family member may be able to enter the FSFRC in Category One or Two. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Please ensure you have communicated to your domestic HR specialist that you applied for a program that would place you into a federal appointment. Those who are in Leave Without Pay (LWOP) status are not eligible for membership. 13. Are family members who are currently employed on a TEMP Appointment with an intermittent work schedule eligible to join the FSFRC? Yes. As mentioned in 3 FAM 8224, family members currently employed on a TEMP Appointment may join the FSFRC. 14. Will Overseas Seasonal Hire Program (OSHP) participants be eligible for FSFRC membership? No, because children do not meet the FSFRC eligibility requirements. 15. I’m a Consular Affairs-Appointment Eligible Family Member Program (CA-AEFM) on a Family Member Limited Non-career Appointment with the Department of State. May I join the FSFRC? While appointed to the CA-AEFM program, you cannot concurrently be a member of the FSFRC. However, if you do not intend to seek a position as a CA-AEFM at your onward post or if there is not a position available, you may apply and request conversion to the FSFRC after you complete your current overseas tour of duty as a CA-AEFM. We recommend that you apply for the FSFRC 30 days prior to separating from your CA-AEFM appointment. CA-AEFMs should contact the CA-AEFM Coordinator in GTM/CDA/EL at AEFM-CA@state.gov for guidance. Do not apply for the FSFRC without first contacting the CA-AEFM Coordinator as they must provide you with documentation that is required at the time you submit your FSFRC application. 16. I’m a certified Consular Affairs-Appointment Eligible Family Member Program (CA-AEFM) that has completed all the assessments, holds a TS clearance, and has received a letter that I’ve been fully certified as a CA-AEFM. However, I’ve not been hired or appointed yet as a CA-AEFM. May I join the FSFRC? Yes, you may apply for FSFRC membership. The CA-AEFM certification grants you eligibility to be appointed and hired to a future LNA Orientation class, but that doesn’t prevent you from applying for or maintaining your current FSFRC membership. Family members who are certified CA-AEFMs but who have not yet been appointed are encouraged to apply for the FSFRC following the guidance on this page. They do not need to contact the CA-AEFM coordinator. How Do I Apply? 1. I am currently employed with the Department of State, how do I apply to become a member of the FSFRC? All eligible family members currently employed with the Department of State on an FMA or TEMP Appointment, or in a Civil Service position are encouraged to review the Determine When and How to Apply section, and when eligible, to submit a DS-5137 FSFRC Membership Form, reference 17 STATE 105262. You can apply using one of the following methods. OpenNet Access DS-5137 Membership Application or Declination via myData on the DOS Intranet home page Open form Answer the questions as prompted Select the correct form Enter data following the directions on the form Submit form via myData. MyData users should use Chrome for optimized system performance. If you cannot access myData, please contact FSFRC@state.gov for further instructions. 2. I am not currently employed with the Department of State, how do I apply to become a member of the FSFRC? AEFMs who are not currently working for the Department of State should apply through the vacancy announcement on USAJOBS. Vacancy announcement schedules will be posted on GCLO’s website. 3. What documents do I need to submit as part of my application package for the FSFRC open enrollment when applying to the USAJOBS vacancy announcement? Carefully review the vacancy announcement and ensure all documents requested are included in your application package. At this time, two things are required to be submitted when applying via USAJOBS: 1. Resume and 2. Either an authorized OF126 or TM4 Travel Authorization. An EFM may provide a DD214 and SF-50 if applicable. Please note, late document submissions will not be accepted. 4. I am not currently employed with the Department of State and the vacancy announcement on USAJOBS has closed. How do I submit my application? If the announcement has closed before you have had the opportunity to submit your application, please apply at the next opportunity. Vacancy announcement schedules will be posted on GCLO’s website. 5. I live overseas and have heard it’s hard to establish a USAJOBS account because of the authentication process. How can I get a login? You will need to receive the login.gov security code via text or phone call. Text messages will work for any mobile number, including international numbers. However, if you sign up to receive a phone call, you can only use a U.S., Canada, or Mexico-based phone number. Alternatively, some applicants identified a U.S. resident who was willing to receive the 6-digit password on their behalf and communicate it to them within the allocated 10 minutes. 6. I am having trouble with USAJOBS. Who do I contact for technical support? Please contact USAJOBS technical support by scrolling down to the bottom of the screen, selecting “Help Center ” and “Contact Us ” options located under the “Help” column. 7. If the USAJOBS vacancy announcement closes before I’m able to submit my application, will I still be able to apply for jobs at post? Yes. At this time, FSFRC membership is not a requirement for applying for positions at post. 8. Should I apply for FSFRC membership? Yes. If you are currently employed by the Department of State on an FMA or Temp appointment, please submit the DS-5137 FSFRC Membership Form via myData. If you have been selected for a position at post under the Department of State and have not yet established an entry on duty date for your position at post (e.g., pending a background investigation), we encourage you to apply for the FSFRC via the USAJOBS vacancy announcement process. 9. May a family member apply to join the FSFRC if they do not yet have a security clearance? Yes. Holding a security clearance is not a prerequisite for joining the FSFRC. 10. Will the family members of newly hired sponsoring employees be able to join the FSFRC? Yes, assuming they meet eligibility requirements, they will be able to join by submitting their membership application via USAJOBS. 11. Can my spouse, HRO, Management Officer, etc. submit my FSFRC application for me? Only AEFMs can submit applications to join the FSFRC, whether via Open Enrollment (USAJOBS) or form DS-5137. HROs, Management Officers, or Direct Hire spouses may not submit applications on behalf of family members. 12. Can I get a security clearance automatically by becoming a member of the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC)? What are the different categories of FSFRC membership? Regulations do not allow security clearances for those who do not require access to classified information. E.O. 12968 governs eligibility for access to classified information and requires that access be limited and relate directly to the level of classified information for which there is a need to know. You do not get a security clearance automatically by becoming a member of the FSFRC, but the program does facilitate the retention of a security clearance you already have, which can minimize delays when family members move from post to post. Once an applicant is enrolled and becomes a member, they will be placed in one of three categories: Category One is for family members who currently hold an active Top Secret clearance. Category Two is for family members who currently hold an active Secret clearance. Category Three is for family members who hold one of the three Non-Sensitive determinations (Low Risk/Non-Sensitive, Moderate Risk Public Trust, and High Risk Public Trust). Regardless of the category at which they enter, FSFRC members may later qualify for a different category as outlined in 3 FAM 8224 . 13. When should AEFMs currently employed by DOS apply for FSFRC membership? We prefer that you apply as soon as your SF-50 is available if you are working on a Family Member or Temporary Appointment. If you are working as a Civil Service employee, we request that you apply no sooner than six months prior to your resignation from your domestic position. This ensures a timely conversion to the FSFRC. At a minimum, AEFMs should apply no later than 30 days before their departure date from their position. You do not need to wait for Open Enrollment and can apply anytime via form DS-5137. It is very important that you apply BEFORE departing your position as the Bureau Family Member Employment Coordinator (FMEC) or your HR Representative must act on your status within the first pay period of your departure. If you have not applied for the FSFRC prior to your position departure date, your appointment must be terminated. If your appointment is terminated, you may apply to future FSFRC vacancy announcements on USAJOBS. However, if you have submitted an acceptable membership application prior to your last day in your position at post, Talent Services will continue to adjudicate your application. If Talent Services is unable to appoint you to the FSFRC prior to or upon your departure from post, their office will provide you with additional guidance when your departure has been confirmed. 14. If an AEFM has already accepted a position at their next post, do they still apply for the FSFRC? Yes, if they are transferring from an overseas position or from a CS Department of State domestic assignment to an overseas post they should apply for FSFRC membership in order to avoid a break in service. 15. If an AEFM does not apply for FSFRC membership before departing their position at post will their Family Member Appointment be terminated? Yes, if the AEFM does not submit an acceptable application for FSFRC membership prior to departing their position at post, the family member appointment will be terminated. 16. Will AEFMs who apply for the FSFRC before departing post be placed in INWS after departing post or while the application is being adjudicated and processed? In most cases, an AEFM who applies for the FSFRC before departing post and is accepted as an FSFRC member will be converted in to the FSFRC and will not enter INWS. Only in cases where the applicant departs with insufficient time to process their application will it be necessary to place them in INWS while their application is under consideration. The applicant will then be notified about the revalidation process and will be required to complete an SF 86C. 17. If I am working on a Personal Services Agreement (PSA), Personal Services Contract (PSC), or as a third party government contractor, can I apply to the FSFRC now? We are unable to accept applications from AEFMs who are currently working on a PSA, PSC, or as a third party government contractor unless the agreement or contract is due to end within 90 days from the application date. Notification 1. Will family members receive notification when they are accepted in the FSFRC? Yes. Once the FSFRC member is accepted, if they are still actively working at post they will be emailed a confirmation letter. If they have departed their position at post and no longer have access to OpenNet and their Official Personnel Folder (OPF), GTM/TS will mail a paper copy of the personnel action (Form SF-50), along with notification that the family member has been appointed into the FSFRC. It is very important that the family member include a current mailing address as well a current personal email address on the FSFRC application form. 2. How can I confirm that my application was received and /or find out the status of the application? Applicants will receive several system notifications, one when their application is submitted, another upon ticketing into the system for review, and yet again upon final processing. Applicants who have received the notifications are encouraged to have patience as application processing times will vary from person to person. Applicants who have not received any notifications should send an email to FSFRC@state.gov. 3. Why would paper copies of SF-50s be issued instead of electronic copies by email? Paper copies could be lost in the mail during PCS transitions. Mailing paper copies is no longer needed to protect the employee’s Personally Identifiable Information. The FSFRC team utilizes software called Kiteworks to send your SF-50s securely to any email address outside of OpenNet. Family members are encouraged to save copies of their SF 50s from their eOPF prior to departure from their position at post. 4. How soon after I submit my application to join the FSFRC will I be notified of my status? Since each application will be handled on a case-by-case basis, application processing times will vary. 5. Will everyone who applies for the FSFRC be accepted? No. Each FSFRC application will be reviewed on an individual basis. Potential reasons for not being accepted include, but are not limited to: not meeting the FSFRC eligibility criteria, failure to submit all of the required documentation, and/or issues of suitability. Clearances 1. Do I automatically get a clearance if I join the FSFRC? No. Regulations do not allow security clearances for those who do not require access to classified information. E.O. 12968 governs eligibility for access to classified information and requires that access approval be limited and relate directly to the level of classified information for which there is a need for access. See 3 FAM 8224, for details on how the FSFRC is structured. While eligibility requirements are the same for anyone wishing to join the FSFRC, once an applicant is enrolled and becomes a member, he or she will be placed in one of three categories. Category One is for family members who currently hold an active Top Secret clearance. Category Two is for family members who currently hold an active Secret clearance. Category Three is for family members who are currently not employed by the Department of State or are employed by the Department of State in a low-risk/non-sensitive or a “public trust” position for which they received appropriate investigation and suitability determination. Regardless of the category at which they enter, FSFRC members may later qualify for a different category as outlined in 3 FAM 8224. 2. What will happen to my current clearance if I join the FSFRC? If you currently hold a TS or Secret level clearance when you apply to join the FSFRC, you may be able to enter the FSFRC in Category One (TS) or Category Two (Secret). Similarly, if your security clearance investigation was concluded within 5 years and you are in INWS, it may be possible to revalidate your previous TS or Secret level clearance, allowing you to enter the FSFRC in Category One (TS) or Category Two (Secret). Membership in the FSFRC allows you to retain your eligibility for access to classified information on the basis of your FSFRC position and the need for rapid deployment as you move from post to post. 3. May family members who have security clearances granted by non-State agencies (e.g., DOD) join the FSFRC and have their clearances accepted by State? On a case-by-case basis, family members who meet the eligibility criteria to apply to join the FSFRC may be able to have their non-State agency security clearance accepted by State under reciprocity. For more information on security clearances, visit Bureau of Diplomatic Security. 4. As an FSFRC member in Category 3 or Category 2 can I expect an expedited investigation and adjudication if my position at post requires a higher level clearance? No. Just as is the process now, all FSFRC members who require access to a higher level of classified information than they currently hold (due to being selected for a local position that requires such higher level access) will need to request that higher level of access and cannot begin working until it is granted. An interim clearance may be requested in cases that require an expedited access to classified information. 5. If an FSFRC member currently holds a Secret clearance, can the HRO ask for an upgrade to a TS clearance? No. The FSFRC member must apply and be selected for a local position that requires a higher level of access to classified information than he/she currently holds before an e-QIP for a higher level is initiated. 6. I’m not an FSFRC member but previously held a security clearance. Can that clearance be revalidated when I apply for FSFRC membership? In rare cases in which the individual’s investigation was favorably adjudicated within seven years, this may be possible. However, other factors will apply, and determination will be made on a case-by-case basis. For more information on security clearances, visit Bureau of Diplomatic Security. 7. If I am granted an interim clearance at a higher level than my current FSFRC membership category can my membership category be changed to reflect this? No. Your security clearance must be fully adjudicated in order to be moved to Category One or Two. 8. If an FSFRC member returns to the U.S., will they still be able to retain their membership and security clearance under the FSFRC? It depends. Please refer to FAQs on Membership Retention and Resignation. Retention of the security clearance is also dependent on the member’s ability to continue to meet the standards set forth in the government-wide National Security Adjudicative Guidelines, including cooperation with security investigations. If the FSFRC member accepts a Civil Service position, they will be converted to that position or transferred to the gaining Agency as appropriate. Their FSFRC membership will end at that time but AEFMs can re-apply when they depart their domestic position to accompany their spouse overseas. 9. Does membership in the FSFRC allow for the investigation to continue if I depart Post prior to a higher level investigation being fully adjudicated? Yes. The clearance investigation will continue as long as Post has followed the instructions provided regarding naming the FSFRC category along with the position that the EFM was selected for at the time the higher–level investigation was initiated. Please contact FSFRC@state.gov if you are preparing to depart post and are unsure if the FSFRC category was listed on your higher–level investigation request. 10. Could an applicant for the FSFRC meet security clearance requirements, but not be found suitable for membership in the FSFRC? Yes, this is possible. An applicant must receive a favorable suitability determination before they can be considered for membership in the FSFRC. 11. If an AEFM has a higher level clearance investigation in process or has been granted an interim clearance, what clearance level should the AEFM indicate on their FSFRC application – their current clearance or the clearance requested and under investigation? The applicant should put their current clearance on the application form. They will be placed in the category based on their current fully adjudicated clearance, as verified by DS. 12. If an FSFRC member is granted a higher level clearance, will they be able to change their FSFRC category? Yes, once granted a higher level of access by Diplomatic Security (DS), Talent Services will reassign the AEFM to the appropriate FSFRC category upon verification from DS. As indicated above, interim clearance determinations cannot be used to reassign the member to a higher category. 13. Will clearances be reinvestigated periodically during a member’s time in the FSFRC? Yes, all security clearances must be periodically reinvestigated during the member’s time in the FSFRC. Diplomatic Security will reach out to FSFRC members directly to notify them of the need to complete appropriate paperwork and will conduct the reinvestigation. Failure to reply to a reinvestigation request within the specified timeline (currently 90 days) will result in termination from the FSFRC. Note: A member’s clearance reinvestigation date is independent from their FSFRC appointment date. 14. In addition to security clearance reinvestigations, are other recertification actions required to remain in the FSFRC? Yes. Members must respond to recertification requests from GTM/TS. The frequency of those recertification requests depends on the FSFRC member’s status. If the member is in FSFRC Category One or Two, and not actively working at post, they will need to respond to an annual recertification. Members in Category Three will need to respond to a recertification request about one month before their Not To Exceed (NTE) date is due to expire. All members, regardless of their employment status at post, who are approaching their FSFRC NTE date are required to recertify for the FSFRC. GTM/TS will extend the NTE date every five years as long as the person remains eligible for the FSFRC, and the member has completed the recertification process. Note: The FSFRC recertification process is separate from a clearance reinvestigation. 15. Are FSFRC Members subject to reporting requirements, even when they are not actively working? Yes, FSFRC Members are subject to reporting requirements in accordance with 12 FAM 260 and 12 FAM 270, regardless of whether they are in active pay and duty status or in FSFRC reserve status. 16. If I am a Category 1 (Top Secret) member of the FSFRC and I accept a position at post which only requires a Secret clearance, will I retain my Category 1 FSFRC member status or will I be downgraded to Category 2 (Secret)? Diplomatic Security (DS) clearances for FSFRC members are worldwide and travel with you! FSFRC members keep their highest clearance level. When you are in a local assignment, your access to information is limited by the clearance level for that particular job. While you are an FSFRC member, whether you have a local assignment or not, you hold a clearance and are enrolled in “Continuous Vetting.” This leads to FAM-based reporting requirements. If you do not have access to OpenNet, you can email DS/SI/PSS about reporting at DSDirectorPSS@state.gov. 17. When a family member rejoins the FSFRC after having to resign, can they rejoin at the category they previously held, or must they rejoin at category 3? When a family member who was previously in the FSFRC reapplies to the FSFRC after a break in service, the FSFRC team will submit a request to Diplomatic Security (DS) to determine their access eligibility. The FSFRC does not have any authority regarding the outcome; the final determination will be at the discretion of DS. Membership Retention and Resignation 1. What happens to my FSFRC membership if my sponsor returns for a domestic assignment in the U.S.? You will remain a member of the FSFRC in reserve status provided you meet the eligibility requirements, including compliance with recertification requests from GMT/TS and reinvestigation requests from DS. 2. Will FSFRC members be able to retain their Non-competitive Eligibility (NCE) (E.O. 12721) when they resign from the FSFRC? Yes. Entitlement to Non-Competitive Eligibility (NCE) under E.O. 12721 is based on service at a position at post. As such, any entitlement to NCE is not affected by a member’s resignation from the FSFRC. 3. Will I retain my Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC) membership if I accept a domestic Civil Service position? No. An FSFRC member who accepts a Civil Service (CS) position will be converted from the FSFRC to a CS position. A record of past membership will be retained via the Notification of Personnel Actions (SF-50) maintained in the employee’s electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF). You may reapply for FSFRC membership when preparing to depart a CS position provided you continue to meet the program eligibility criteria. 4. If I accept a domestic Civil Service (CS) position, how will my transition from FSFRC to CS be documented? Once you accept a domestic CS position with DOS no further action is required on your part. The HR Specialist will verify your current clearance status and determine if a clearance conversion or new investigation is needed if the CS position requires a higher level of clearance than what you currently hold. The appointment to your CS position will be documented on an SF-50 personnel action. Those accepting a CS position with a different federal agency should contact Talent Services at FSFRC@state.gov for additional guidance. 5. Can an FSFRC member retain their FSFRC membership if they accept a position with an employment mechanism that is either a Personal Services Agreement (PSA), a Personal Services Contract (PSC), or as a third party government contractor? FSFRC members who accept employment under a PSC or as a third party government contractor are required to resign and must contact the FSFRC team immediately at FSFRC@state.gov. If a member of the FSFRC, in non-pay status, accepts a position under a PSA (including PSA positions from other Agencies at post) using a DOS hiring mechanism, they are not required to resign. However, if the AEFM is not yet a member of the FSFRC, they must wait until the completion of the PSA to apply for membership due to system compatibility issues. 6. If I accept an FMA with USAID, does it impact my FSFRC status? If you accept an FMA with USAID, you will move out of the FSFRC and into your role with USAID. After the conclusion of your USAID FMA, you will need to re-enroll in the FSFRC via Open Enrollment on USAJOBS. If you have questions about how this may impact you, email FSFRC@state.gov. For security clearance questions, email securityclearance@state.gov. 7. Are FSFRC members in reserve status allowed to work outside the Department? FSFRC membership is subject to the ethical standards summarized at 11 FAM 600. If FSFRC members need additional information or guidance regarding outside employment, they should contact the Office of Ethics and Financial Disclosures in the Office of the Legal Adviser (L/EFD) at 202-663-3770 or by emailing the ethics attorney mailbox at EthicsAttorneyMailbox@state.gov, as needed. Reminder: FSFRC members at an overseas post must request Chief of Mission approval prior to accepting any outside employment. Those FSFRC members who choose to accept a Personal Services Contract or employment as a third-party government contractor must resign from the FSFRC. FSFRC members who choose to accept a Personal Services Agreement (including PSA positions from other Agencies at post) using a DOS hiring mechanism are not required to resign. Outside employment has the potential to present security concerns and could potentially place an employee in a situation in which they may face a conflict of interest between the outside activities and their ability to protect classified information. The FSFRC member’s security clearance may be affected depending on what the outside employment consists of and whether the activities and connections that result from it might create a potential conflict of interest between the outside employment, the connections, the organization’s goals, and the obligations to protect classified information. We recommend that the FSFRC member consult with DS/SI/PSS regarding the potential impact on a security clearance. They may be reached at: DSDirectorPSS@state.gov. In any case, all employees must comply with the security reporting requirements in 12 FAM 260 and 12 FAM 270. 8. When am I required to resign from the FSFRC? An FSFRC member is required to resign from the FSFRC under the following circumstances: Acceptance of a Personal Services Contract; Acceptance of a Personal Services Agreement with another Federal Agency unless that Agency uses a DOS hiring mechanism (see Membership Retention and Resignation Question 5); Acceptance of a position as a third party government contractor; Loss of Appointment Eligible Family Member (AEFM) status (i.e., upon retirement of your sponsoring employee, death of the sponsoring employee, or divorce or dissolution of marriage to the sponsoring employee). If the sponsoring employee is deceased, the FSFRC member may request a one-year extension of membership. The surviving spouse should reach out to FSFRC@state.gov directly for more information. 9. Can an FSFRC member who divorces a Foreign Service spouse remain a member of the FSFRC after the divorce is finalized? FSFRC membership will terminate when the spousal relationship between the sponsoring employee and the FSFRC member ends. The same is true when the sponsoring employee retires, resigns, or passes away. However, under certain circumstances an exemption may be requested see 3 FAM 8228.2 (d). Note: exemption requests must be submitted to GTM/OE a minimum of 60 calendar days in advance of a member’s loss of AEFM status except in the event of the passing of a sponsoring employee. If the FSFRC member has earned Non-Competitive Eligibility (NCE) under Executive Order 12721, they will still be able to use their NCE when applying for positions in the Civil Service in the U.S. within three years of resuming domestic residency. 10. How do I resign from the FSFRC? FSFRC members in reserve status may resign at any time. Please submit a letter of resignation including the information below to Talent Services at FSFRC@state.gov: Your full name; The last four digits of your social security number; Current mailing address and email address; Your resignation effective data; The reason for your resignation. 11. If I am currently working at post on an appointment, am I required to recertify my eligibility to retain my FSFRC status? Recertification is required as noted in question Clearances #14. All members, regardless of their employment status at post, who are approaching their NTE date are required to recertify for the FSFRC. 12. As an FSFRC member in reserve status, am I subject to the department’s ethical standards and conduct? The Department of State is committed to the highest ethical standards, and as a member of the FSFRC, you are subject to federal ethics provisions applicable to Executive Branch employees, including criminal conflict of interest statutes such as 18 U.S.C. §§ 203, 205, 207, 208 and 209, as well as the Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch at 5 C.F.R., Part 2635. These rules may limit your engagement in certain outside activities, including outside employment or receiving compensation for publications, for example. If you have questions, particularly with regard to outside employment, please get in touch with your Human Resources (HR) contact. For additional information on applicable ethics requirements, you may contact the Office of Ethics and Financial Disclosures in the Office of the Legal Adviser (L/EFD) at 202-663-3770 or by emailing the ethics attorney mailbox at EthicsAttorneyMailbox@state.gov. 13. What is the length of time that a member can remain in the FSFRC without working in a local position? FSFRC members who continue to meet the eligibility requirements (confirmed by GTM/TS during the recertification process) may remain in the FSFRC. 14. If I change positions or depart post, do I need to re-apply to the FSFRC? No, membership does not need to be reactivated when you leave post or change positions. Once you are a member of the FSFRC you will remain a member as long as you respond to the recertification and reinvestigation processes. 15. Will my Grade and Step be updated on my FSFRC record as I change positions at post? No, your Grade and Step do not change on your FSFRC record. The Grade and Step reflected on your initial conversion into the FSFRC will not change once you have been appointed to the FSFRC. Hiring Preferences 1. Has the hiring preference changed to grant FSFRC Members a preference over non-members? The hiring preferences has not changed, and remains as follows: AEFMs / USEFMs who are also preference-eligible U.S. Veterans AEFMs / USEFMs who are not preference-eligible U.S. Veterans FS Generalists and Specialists on Leave Without Pay (LWOP) and CS employees with re-employment rights. Miscellaneous 1. What badge should be issued for an FSFRC member when they are appointed to a position at Post? The badge issued at post is determined by the level of clearance required for the position that the EFM is encumbering. This may or may not be the same as the clearance level held by the EFM’s category in FSFRC. For example, if the EFM holds a Top Secret (Category One) or a Secret (Category Two) clearance, but the position that they occupy is non-sensitive/public trust, then the badge that they are issued would reflect the non-sensitive/public trust (Category Three) level. If an FSFRC Member is needed to fill temporary duties at Post requiring a higher level of clearance (Category One or Two) which the EFM holds as an FSFRC member, then the RSO at Post can issue a temporary badge as appropriate. 2. Is FSFRC membership a prerequisite for EFM employment (e.g., Expanded Professional Associates Program)? It depends. While the Overseas FSFRC Reserve Status Urgent Hire pilot is limited to FSFRC members, all other overseas hiring does not require FSFRC membership. 3. How will family members from other agencies learn about the FSFRC before they come to post? The Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) will continue to reach out to family members from all agencies that serve under Chief of Mission authority through its internet site, GCLO Weekly newsletter, postings on Foreign Service online forums, webinars, and the worldwide Community Liaison Office (CLO) program, which provides welcome and orientation information to those bidding on or assigned to overseas posts. GCLO also conducts hundreds of briefings each year at the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) and other locations with employees and family members of many agencies. Through its participation in the Inter-agency Roundtable group, GCLO regularly updates family support offices from other agencies on the FSFRC and other valuable programs for family members. 4. What is the FSFRC reserve status? FSFRC reserve status is an appointment without compensation (i.e. salary and benefits). Tags Family Member Employment Global Community Liaison Office
