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Consular Officer (Foreign Service)
What You Do
The top priority for all consular officers around the world is to protect American citizens and their interests abroad. In this role, consular officers perform such tasks as:
- help find emergency medical services for Americans
- register the births of Americans born abroad
- provide visa services to residents of the host country
- interview visa applicants and decide whether to issue them entry into the U.S.
- evacuate American citizens as required by natural disasters or military situations
- ensure that arrested Americans have access to legal counsel
Characteristics
To carry out these jobs, consular officers must acquire expertise in the local laws, economic and political situation, and culture of the host country. They need to be able to make rapid and well-informed decisions. The personality of a successful consular officer includes attention to detail, a reassuring and agreeable nature, and the ability to deal with variety and unexpected events.
How To Apply
The application process for the Foreign Service includes a written exam, oral assessment, background investigation, and medical clearance. There is no foreign language requirement, although proficiency in a language can increase your chances of being selected.
Salary
Salary in the Foreign Service is dependent on level of education and years of work experience. The Foreign Service web site provides more details.
Information Source:
Inside a U.S. Embassy (2003). Washington D.C.: American Foreign Service Association, pp. 26-27.
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