The new policy is intended to support embassy staffing and family unity without expanding the federal workforce.
The U.S. State Department has introduced an exemption to the federal hiring freeze that will allow diplomats stationed abroad to fill certain embassy positions with eligible family members (EFMs), such as spouses. The initiative is intended to strengthen embassy operations and promote family unity while adhering to hiring restrictions.
“This exemption to the hiring freeze for EFMs makes available a pool of highly qualified candidates who can quickly fill both temporary and long-term positions that support operational readiness,” the department memo stated. “These will include positions in human resources, finance, security, political/economic, community liaison, medical, and consular services, ensuring that overseas posts function smoothly.”
This policy follows President Trump’s executive order freezing new federal hires and comes amid Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s ongoing reorganization of the department, which includes layoffs of Washington-based bureaucratic staff. The memo highlights that EFMs may now join the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps, giving them active security clearances to step into both short- and long-term roles as needed. Positions that may be filled include those in human resources, finance, security, political/economic affairs, medical, and consular services.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Marco Rubio to be led by the Lord as he oversees the State Department and heads U.S. diplomatic efforts.
- For prudence for State Department officials as they make exemptions to the federal hiring freeze for U.S. embassies.
Sources: Daily Wire, Department of State
