Can a new FSO request a domestic first tour due to a spouse’s pending immigration case?
Hi everyone,
I’m planning ahead and had a question about first assignments as an FSO.
I’m a U.S. citizen, and I plan to begin my husband’s family-based immigration process next month (starting with the I-130, followed by consular processing, as he entered the U.S. without inspection). I also intend to apply to become an FSO next year. I know both processes can take quite a while, so this is purely a hypothetical question.
If I successfully make it through the FSO hiring process and receive an offer before my husband has his green card, what happens in that situation? Since he wouldn’t be able to accompany me to an overseas post, is it possible to request a domestic first tour (for example, in Washington, D.C.)? If not, is there any mechanism to defer an overseas assignment or request an exception based on an ongoing spousal immigration case?
I understand that assignments are based on the needs of the Service, and I’m not expecting to choose my first post. I’m simply trying to understand what options, if any, would be available in this type of situation. Ideally, one or two domestic tours would give enough time for his immigration process to be completed.
Has anyone experienced something similar or know how the Department typically handles these situations?
Thank you!