A New Employee’s Guide to Working in an Embassy

A New Employee’s Guide to Working in an Embassy

Jun 7, 2020 | Defense Base Act

The United States currently has embassies and diplomatic missions in over 170 nations around the world.

These embassies employ a huge number of Americans overseas. Working in an embassy can be a highly rewarding endeavor.

If you’re thinking of pursuing a career in one of America’s foreign embassies, or you’ve just started a new job in one, there are a number of things you should know.

Read on as we look at some of the rights and responsibilities you’ll have as an employee of a US embassy overseas.

Different Embassy Jobs

There are a number of different roles that US embassies hire for. The best way to begin looking for an embassy job is to apply to become a Foreign Service Officer (FSO).

The different roles that you might assume as an embassy worker include:

  • Law enforcement
  • Healthcare
  • Administration
  • Security

In all cases, you will have to undergo a long period of training before going overseas. You may not have a choice as to where you go, or the option to bring your family with you.

Your Rights While Working in an Embassy

Overseas work in an embassy can be challenging, not to mention dangerous in some scenarios. If you become ill or suffer an injury while working in an embassy, you need to know your entitlements.

The Defense Base Act (DBA)

The Defense Base Act is the primary legislative authority with regard to the rights of those working for the federal government overseas.

The Act applies to civilian military personnel, public works contractors, those making sales to or on behalf of the US government overseas, and many other categories of workers. Those working in foreign embassies are often covered by the Defense Base Act.

One of the Act’s main provisions is that organizations that employ US staff like those listed above in foreign countries must have workers’ compensation insurance to cover them in the event of an accident.

If you suffer an illness or injury while working in a foreign embassy, this insurance should cover wage replacement and medical care for you. However, because disputes in relation to these claims are common, payment is not always guaranteed.

To give yourself the best possible chance of recovering compensation under a Defense Base Act claim, you’ll need capable legal representation.

At Barnes Law Firm, the Defense Base Act is one of our primary areas of practice. We have a long and distinguished track record of helping claimants in this area secure the justice they deserve.

Pursuing Your New Career With Confidence

Working in an embassy might be the most rewarding thing you’ll ever do. You’ll get to serve your country and see more of the world at the same time.

However, if something happens to you while you’re away from home, you need to know your rights.

If you’d like to know more about Defense Base Act claims, or any of our other legal services, contact us today.