What Does A Foreign Service Officer Do (including Their Typical Day at Work)

Evaluate Visa Applications for Foreign Travelers

Foreign Service Officers choose a career path after joining the US Department of State (DoS). Many choose to work as Consular Officers. 

Consular Officers are responsible for evaluating visa applications from foreign nationals who want to travel to the United States. The Officer may review the applicant’s intended reason for travel and perform a background check to look for any red flags.

Help Evacuate Americans Stuck in Foreign Countries

Foreign Service Officers that choose the Consular Officer path may also help evacuate the needs of Americans during dire situations. For example, during a military coup or an environmental disaster, normal methods of travel may not be available to Americans traveling abroad. 

Foreign Service Officers assist with arranging travel or providing a safe place to stay until American citizens can be evacuated.

Build Positive Economic Relations with Foreign Governments

Foreign Service Officers that choose the Economic Officer path are responsible for building and maintaining relations with foreign dignitaries, business leaders, and international organizations.

Foreign Service Economic Officers coordinate with international organizations to help resolve market challenges and promote fair trade practices. They also work with leaders in other countries to solve problems related to health, the environment, and science.

Working with foreign governments may also involve negotiating agreements and arranging policies that promote safer travel and transportation between the United States and foreign countries.

Help Advance US Political Interests in Foreign Lands

Foreign Service Political Officers and Foreign Service Public Diplomacy Officers help promote awareness of US interests in foreign lands. This may involve explaining American values and policies to foreigners and developing exchange programs to build stronger relations.

Foreign Service Political Officers tend to focus on political policies and high-level negotiations. Foreign Service Public Diplomacy Officers are more focused on public awareness and the exchange of cultural information.

Ensure That Arrested Americans Receive Legal Counsel

Foreign Service Officers visit arrested Americans overseas to ensure that they receive access to legal counsel. They may also help arrange communications between an arrested US citizen and their family back home.

Step 1: Study History and Politics in High School

Aspiring Foreign Service Officers should study history and politics in high school, as this job requires knowledge of American and world affairs.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Foreign Service Officers do not need a college degree, but it can increase your career prospects. Common majors include political science and economics.

Step 3: Choose a Career Path

Before applying for a job as a Foreign Service Officer, you need to choose your career path. The five paths include Consular, Political, Economic, Management, and Public Diplomacy. 

Step 4: Pass the FSOT

Applicants need to register for the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT). The test includes a multiple-choice exam, a written essay, and an oral assessment.

Step 5: Pass the Medical and Security Clearance

After passing the FSOT, applicants need to pass the medical and security requirements. Applicants that pass these requirements undergo a final review and are entered into a waiting list for available job opportunities for their chosen career track.