Foreign Service Reappointments

If you are a former career member of the Foreign Service, you could be eligible for reappointment. This would allow you to return to the same grade and career track that you left.

Reappointments are not automatic. The Foreign Service Act of 1980 (as amended) authorizes the reappointment of former career members when the reappointment meets the needs of the Foreign Service. Eligibility for reappointment will depend on the current hiring needs of the Department and employee deficits for each grade and skill code. There is no reappointment application open season at the moment.  Information on how to apply and details on the current hiring needs of the Department will be published on this website.

The reappointment process is similar to the process you went through when you first entered the Foreign Service. Your application package will go through a review and evaluation stage to ensure you meet all requirements for reappointment. If approved, the Office of Talent Acquisition will notify you and initiate medical review and security and suitability clearances. When you have received these clearances, your name will be placed on a register of reappointment candidates. If selected for a reappointment, candidates agree to a directed first assignment in positions designated as hard to fill or otherwise meeting an immediate service need.