On Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11:59 pm (EST) all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership and specially designated programs. Essential personnel expected to continue working will be informed by Agency leadership by Thursday, February 6, at 3:00pm (EST).
For USAID personnel currently posted outside the United States, the Agency, in coordination with missions and the Department of State, is currently preparing a plan, in accordance with all applicable requirements and laws, under which the Agency would arrange and pay for return travel to the United States within 30 days and provide for the termination of PSC and ISC contracts that are not determined to be essential. The Agency will consider case-by-case exceptions and return travel extensions based on personal or family hardship, mobility or safety concerns, or other reasons. For example, the Agency will consider exceptions based on the timing of dependents’ school term, personal or familial medical needs, pregnancy, and other reasons. Further guidance on how to request an exception will be forthcoming.
Thank you for your service.
FAQs
- 1. If I am posted overseas and placed on administrative leave, am I required to return to the United States within the next 30 days?
- No. While USAID and the Department of State are preparing a plan under which USAID personnel posted overseas would be offered optional and fully reimbursed return travel to the United States within 30 days, personnel are not required to accept Agency-sponsored travel or to return to the United States within any specific deadline. Overseas USAID personnel retain the option to remain at their posts, even while placed on administrative leave and not working. Beyond 30 days, however, Agency funded and arranged return travel may not be available unless an individualized exception is sought and granted.