Article Guide
The DS-174 Application for Employment form is an essential document for individuals seeking positions with the U.S. Department of State, particularly as locally employed staff or family members of diplomatic personnel. This form is structured to gather important personal information, including the applicant's name, contact details, and any relevant family links to existing embassy or consulate employees. Additionally, educational qualifications play a significant role, requiring disclosure of high school, trade, undergraduate, and graduate education details. A language section assesses proficiency levels, which is key given the diverse linguistic environment of diplomatic workplaces. Furthermore, the work experience section invites candidates to outline their professional histories, ensuring they detail both paid and voluntary positions over the last decade. Provisions are also made for U.S. citizens—the form includes specific sections to highlight their status and required documentation. Lastly, applicants must confirm the accuracy of their information through a declaration, affirming that they understand the implications of providing false information. This comprehensive approach ensures that the Department collects all necessary data to evaluate and establish eligibility for employment effectively.
Form Sample
U.S. Department of State
OMB APPROVAL NO.
EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION FOR LOCALLY EMPLOYED STAFF OR FAMILY MEMBER
POSITION
Vacancy Announcement Number
Position Title
SECTION 1: PERSONAL INFORMATION TO BE COMPLETED BY ALL APPLICANTS
Name (Last, First or Given Name)
Other Names Used
Address
Telephone Number
Does your relative work in this Embassy or Consulate? If yes, tell us their name and the section where they work.
Are you able to legally work in this country? |
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Yes |
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No |
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(U.S. Government does not sponsor work visas unless specified on the Vacancy Announcement.) |
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If this job includes driving a U.S. Government vehicle, do you have a current and valid driver's license? |
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No |
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SECTION 2: EDUCATION |
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High School/Secondary Education |
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Dates Attended |
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Did you |
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(Name, City) |
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graduate? |
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Trade/Technical |
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Dates Attended |
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Certificate/Diploma |
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Major Subject |
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graduate? |
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Undergraduate/Bachelor's Degree |
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Dates Attended |
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Did you |
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Degree/Diploma |
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Major Subject |
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graduate? |
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Graduate Degree |
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Dates Attended |
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Did you |
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Degree/Diploma |
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Major Subject |
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graduate? |
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SECTION 3: LANGUAGES |
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Languages |
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1Basic - Examples: Basic greetings, phrases, numbers and signs.
2 Limited - Examples: Directions, simple questions
3 Good working knowledge - Examples: Conversations about familiar topics, complex documents
4 Fluent - Examples: Infer nuanced meaning from complex documents
5 Translator - Examples: Certified professional translator in this language
Language
Speaking (Provide level)
Reading (Provide level)
Writing (Provide level)
Page 1 of 3 |
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SECTION 4: WORK EXPERIENCE
Paid and Voluntary - Please begin by listing your most current work experience and go back 10 years (or longer, if relevant for the job.)
Job Title
From |
To |
Yearly Salary (Local currency) |
Hours per Week |
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Employer Name, Address and Phone Number |
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Supervisory Responsibilities? |
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Supervisor Name |
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Yes |
No |
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Main Duties and Responsibilities
Reason for leaving
Job Title
From |
To |
Yearly Salary (Local currency) |
Hours per Week |
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Employer Name, Address and Phone Number |
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Supervisory Responsibilities? |
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Supervisor Name |
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Yes |
No |
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Main Duties and Responsibilities
Reason for leaving
Job Title
From |
To |
Yearly Salary (Local currency) |
Hours per Week |
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Employer Name, Address and Phone Number |
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Supervisory Responsibilities? |
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Supervisor Name |
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Yes |
No |
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Main Duties and Responsibilities
Reason for leaving
Page 2 of 3 |
SECTION 4: WORK EXPERIENCE (Continued)
Job Title
From
To
Yearly Salary (Local currency)
Hours per Week
Employer Name, Address and Phone Number
Supervisory Responsibilities?
Yes |
No |
Supervisor Name
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Reason for leaving
SECTION 5: CITIZENSHIP
Are you a U.S. citizen listed on the travel orders or approved
If no, proceed to Section 6. |
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Yes |
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No |
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If yes, select all that apply: |
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I am a member of the Foreign Service Family Reserve Corps (FSFRC).
I am a preference eligible U.S. Veteran. I have not invoked my preference at this Post. (DD214 required)
I am a preference eligible U.S. Veteran. I have invoked my preference at this Post. I have worked in (enter Agency/job)
I am Foreign Service on Leave Without Pay (LWOP).
I am Civil Service on LWOP with
SECTION 6: DECLARATION
I certify that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, all of the information on and attached to this application is true, correct, complete, and made in good faith. I understand that false or fraudulent information on or attached to this application may be grounds for not hiring me, or for separation/dismissal after I begin work, and may be punishable by fine or imprisonment according to this country's law or U.S. law. I understand that any information I voluntarily provide on or attached to this application may be investigated.
PRIVACY AND PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENTS (For U.S. Citizens and Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S.)
AUTHORITIES The information is sought pursuant to The Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended, and 22 U.S.C. 2669(c). Your social security number (SSN) maybe used to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of the individual, pursuant to Executive Order 9397, as amended.
PURPOSE The information solicited on this form will be used to establish your eligibility and qualifications for job vacancies at U.S. Missions.
ROUTINE USES The information may be shared with other federal agencies to the extent relevant and necessary for that agency to make employment decisions and to a Congressional Office in response to your written request. More information on Routine Uses can be found in System of Records Notices
DISCLOSURE Disclosure of this information, including your social security number, is voluntary. Failure to provide the requested information may result in your application not receiving full consideration or being delayed for consideration.
BURDEN Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average one (1) hour per response, including time required for searching existing data sources, gathering the necessary documentation, providing the information and/or documents required, and reviewing the final collection. You do not have to supply this information unless this collection displays a currently valid OMB control number. If you have comments on the accuracy of this burden estimate and/or recommendations for reducing it, please send them to: HR/OE,
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The U.S. Mission provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, protected genetic information, or sexual orientation.
The EEO complaint procedure is not available to individuals who believe they have been denied equal opportunity based upon marital status or political affiliation. Individuals with such complaints should avail themselves of the appropriate grievance procedures, remedies for prohibited personnel practices, and/or courts for relief.
Page 3 of 3 |
Writing (Provide level)
Reading (Provide level)
Speaking (Provide level)
EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION FOR LOCALLY EMPLOYED STAFF OR FAMILY MEMBER
INSTRUCTIONS
SECTION 1 - PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name - Last Name, First Name
Other names used - All other names used, including nicknames
Address - Current mailing address, including apartment number, building number, or mailing code
Email - Complete email address. (IMPORTANT: Most correspondence will be via email.)
Phone Number - Cellphone, mobile or landline
Does your relative work in this Embassy or Consulate?
Relative is a husband, wife, domestic partner, member of household, father,
SECTION 2 - EDUCATION
Enter all that apply. You may be asked to provide a copy of your diploma or certification at the interview phase, or if asked by HR.
SECTION 3 - LANGUAGES
The Mission assesses the language proficiency using the following standards:
1Basic - Examples: I can use basic greetings and phrases; I can read numbers and signs.
2 Limited - Examples: I can give basic directions, simple questions
3 Good working knowledge - Examples: Conversations about familiar topics, complex documents
4 Fluent - Examples: Infer nuanced meaning from complex documents
5 Translator - Examples: Certified professional translator in this language
List language proficiency and identify the level for Speaking, Reading and Writing for each. The Vacancy Announcement states whether these languages will or may be tested.
Language
English |
4 Fluent |
4 Fluent |
4 Fluent |
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Italian |
2 Limited |
1 Basic |
1 Basic |
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SECTION 4 - WORK EXPERIENCE
Paid and Voluntary - Start with current experience and go back 10 years or longer, if relevant to this job.
Please complete all required information to the best of your knowledge. You must provide the month and year of your employment. If you need additional space, please attach additional pages to your application.
Job Title
From
To
Yearly Salary (Local currency)
Hours per Week
Employer Name, Address and Phone Number
Supervisory Responsibilities? |
Supervisor Name |
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Yes |
No |
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Main Duties and Responsibilities
Reason for leaving
SECTION 5 - FOR U.S. CITIZENS ONLY
Select all that apply and include the required documents (as stated) with the application. Additional documents may be requested by HR at the interview phase.
SECTION 6 - DECLARATION
All applicants must read the declaration and mark their agreement to proceed with the application.
Instruction Page 1 of 1 |
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Document Specifications
| Fact Name | Detail |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The DS-174 form is used for employment applications for locally employed staff or family members at U.S. Missions. |
| Estimated Completion Time | Applicants should expect an estimated completion time of approximately one hour. |
| Section Overview | The form includes sections on personal information, education, languages, work experience, citizenship, and a declaration. |
| Data Privacy | Information provided on the DS-174 may be shared with federal agencies as necessary for employment decisions, ensuring confidentiality. |
| Authority | This application process is governed by The Foreign Service Act of 1980 and related regulations under 22 U.S.C. 2669(c). |
Steps to Filling Out Ds 174 Application For Employment
Completing the DS-174 Application for Employment form involves careful attention to detail and accurate information entry. This process is crucial in ensuring that your application is considered thoroughly. Below are the steps you should follow to fill out the form effectively.
- Begin with Section 1: Personal Information. Enter your full name, including any other names you have used. Include your current address, complete email address, and telephone number. Indicate if a relative works at the Embassy or Consulate, providing their name and section if applicable. Confirm your ability to legally work in the country, and if the position involves driving, indicate if you have a valid driver’s license.
- Move to Section 2: Education. Fill in details about your educational background. List your high school, any trade or technical training, undergraduate, and graduate degrees. For each, include the dates attended and whether you graduated.
- In Section 3: Languages, specify the languages you speak. For each language, indicate your proficiency level in speaking, reading, and writing using the provided scale from 1 (Basic) to 5 (Translator).
- Fill out Section 4: Work Experience. Begin with your most recent job and go back 10 years. Include job titles, dates of employment, yearly salary, hours worked per week, employer details, supervisory responsibilities, main duties, and reasons for leaving.
- If you are a U.S. citizen, complete Section 5: Citizenship. Indicate your status and check all boxes that apply to your situation, attaching any required documentation.
- Conclude with Section 6: Declaration. Read the declaration carefully, then mark your agreement, certifying that all provided information is true and complete.
Once you have completed the DS-174, review all entries for accuracy. This ensures that your application reflects your qualifications clearly and completely. After this, submit your application as instructed in the vacancy announcement to move forward in the hiring process.
More About Ds 174 Application For Employment
What is the purpose of the DS-174 Application for Employment form?
The DS-174 form is designed for individuals applying for locally employed staff or family member positions at U.S. embassies and consulates. It collects essential information about the applicant's background, education, language skills, and work experience. This form helps the hiring authorities assess the eligibility and qualifications of candidates for various job vacancies at U.S. missions worldwide.
What information do I need to provide in Section 1: Personal Information?
In Section 1, applicants must input their name, any other names used, current address, email, and phone number. Additionally, it asks whether you have a relative working at the embassy or consulate, confirming your legal work capacity in the country, and if you possess a valid driver’s license if the job requires driving a U.S. Government vehicle. It’s crucial to fill out this section accurately, as this information establishes your basic eligibility for employment.
How should I report my work experience in Section 4?
In Section 4, you should begin by listing your most recent job experiences, going back a maximum of ten years or longer if it is relevant to the position. Each entry must include your job title, dates of employment, yearly salary, hours worked per week, employer's name and contact information, supervisory responsibilities, and main duties. Make sure to be concise yet thorough—the clarity of this section can significantly influence your application’s success.
What happens if I provide false information on my application?
Providing false or misleading information on the DS-174 form can have serious consequences. It may lead to disqualification from the hiring process, or termination after employment has begun. The form includes a declaration where applicants certify that all information is accurate and complete. Misrepresentation may also result in legal repercussions under U.S. law or the law of the host country.
Common mistakes
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Incomplete Personal Information: Failing to provide all required personal details, such as full name, email address, or phone number can result in processing delays.
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Incorrect or Missing Employment Dates: Providing inaccurate dates for employment history can lead to discrepancies that may raise questions during the review process.
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Unclear Job Descriptions: Vague descriptions of job responsibilities or achievements may hinder the employer's ability to evaluate qualifications effectively.
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Language Proficiency Errors: Misrepresenting language skills, either overestimating or underestimating proficiency, can affect the suitability for the role.
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Omitting Required Documentation: Not including necessary documents, such as proof of citizenship or military service records when applicable, can lead to disqualification.
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Failure to Verify Work Authorization: Not confirming that one is legally allowed to work in the country could result in serious legal implications for both the applicant and employer.
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Neglecting to Follow Instructions: Skipping directions provided in the application can lead to mistakes that could mar the overall application.
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Not Signing the Declaration: Failing to sign or indicate agreement to the declaration statement can render the application void.
Documents used along the form
When applying for a position using the DS-174 Application for Employment form, there are several other important documents that you may need to include with your application. These documents help provide a fuller picture of your qualifications and can streamline the hiring process. Understanding what additional information might be required can help set you up for success in securing a position.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): This document offers a comprehensive overview of your professional journey. It outlines your work experience, education, skills, and achievements in a structured format. A well-prepared resume or CV can highlight your strengths and make a compelling case for why you're a great fit for the role.
- Cover Letter: A cover letter serves as your personal introduction to potential employers. It's an opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the position and explain how your background aligns with the job requirements. While your resume provides facts, your cover letter provides context and personality.
- Proof of Citizenship (if applicable): For U.S. citizens, this could include documents like a passport or a birth certificate. Providing proof of citizenship is often essential for positions that require security clearances or are restricted to U.S. citizens only.
- References: Often required or requested later in the application process, a references document includes a list of professional contacts who can vouch for your qualifications and character. It's important to select individuals who know your work ethics and can speak positively about your skills and experiences.
These documents complement the DS-174 Application for Employment form by giving employers a more rounded understanding of who you are as a candidate. Taking the time to prepare these materials carefully can enhance your application and improve your chances of making a strong impression.
Similar forms
The DS-198 Application for Employment is somewhat similar to the DS-174 Application for Employment form. Both forms serve the purpose of collecting personal information from applicants for employment opportunities within U.S. governmental agencies. They require applicants to provide details such as their name, contact information, and whether they are eligible to work in the country. In addition, both forms include sections focusing on educational background and work experience, allowing the applicant to detail their qualifications and relevant employment history.
The SF-171 Application for Federal Employment offers another similarity to the DS-174 form. Like the DS-174, the SF-171 is designed for individuals seeking employment with the federal government. It gathers a complete overview of an applicant's skills, education, and work history. Furthermore, both forms include a declaration section where applicants must confirm the accuracy of the information they provide. This declaration underlines the importance of truthful representation in the hiring process.
The OF-306 Declaration for Federal Employment aligns with the DS-174 in its goal of obtaining essential applicant information. Both forms emphasize the need to disclose any relevant personal history and employment eligibility. While the DS-174 focuses on applications for locally employed staff, the OF-306 serves a broader purpose, catering to various employment types, including those within federal agencies. This commonality reflects the standard protocol for gathering pertinent information required for employment consideration.
The Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV) commonly submitted for job applications shares similarities with the DS-174 form, even though it is less structured. Both documents outline an individual's qualifications, including educational background and work experiences. However, while the DS-174 is a formal application requiring specific details and formats, the résumé or CV can be tailored and presented in various styles. Nonetheless, both are essential for showcasing an applicant's credentials to potential employers.
Dos and Don'ts
Do's:
- Provide accurate and complete personal information, including full name, address, and contact details.
- List all relevant work experience chronologically, starting with your most recent job.
- Clearly indicate your language proficiency levels for speaking, reading, and writing.
- Review your application carefully for errors before submission.
Don'ts:
- Don't leave any sections blank; ensure all required fields are filled out.
- Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations that may confuse your identity.
- Do not provide false information, as this could lead to disqualification.
- Don't wait until the last minute to complete the application; allow time for any unexpected issues.
Misconceptions
Misconceptions about the DS-174 Application for Employment often arise due to a lack of understanding of its purpose and requirements. Below is a list of ten common misconceptions along with explanations to clarify them.
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Only U.S. citizens can apply using the DS-174.
This is not accurate. The form is designed for both U.S. citizens and local applicants or family members associated with U.S. missions. Non-citizens may have their own eligibility criteria based on local laws.
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The DS-174 is solely for full-time positions.
In reality, this application can be used for both full-time and part-time positions, as well as volunteer roles within U.S. missions.
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Providing a relative’s information guarantees employment.
While disclosing familial relationships might be advantageous in certain contexts, it does not ensure job placement. All applications are evaluated based on qualifications.
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Education history is optional on the form.
This statement is incorrect. Applicants are required to provide education details, as this information is critical for assessing qualifications for the position.
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Only educational credentials from the U.S. are accepted.
The form accepts educational credentials from various countries. It is important for applicants to provide equivalent qualifications where applicable.
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Language proficiency is not important.
Language skills can be crucial for many positions, especially in international contexts. Applicants are encouraged to detail their language capabilities accurately on the application.
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All job experiences must be listed regardless of relevance.
While applicants are encouraged to include relevant experiences, they should focus on the last 10 years unless earlier positions are pertinent to the job they are applying for.
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The DS-174 will not be reviewed if incomplete.
An incomplete application can indeed jeopardize an applicant's chances. It’s advisable to fill out all sections thoughtfully to ensure full consideration.
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Personal information shared is not confidential.
This is misleading; the information provided is subject to privacy laws. The U.S. Department of State safeguards applicants’ data under strict privacy regulations.
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Negative information on the application leads to automatic disqualification.
It is not solely negative information that disqualifies candidates; all aspects of an application are evaluated holistically, including circumstances surrounding any adverse experiences.
Key takeaways
The DS-174 Application for Employment is crucial for securing a position as locally employed staff or family member at a U.S. Mission. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling out this application:
- Complete Personal Information: Ensure that all sections concerning personal details, including name, address, and contact information, are fully entered. This information is vital for communication.
- Emphasize Educational Background: Provide comprehensive details about your educational qualifications, including all relevant institutions attended and any degrees obtained. Documentation may be requested later.
- List Work Experience Accurately: Begin with your most recent jobs and include the last ten years of employment. Highlight supervisory responsibilities and main duties clearly.
- Language Proficiency: Assess your language skills accurately using the provided levels. Indicate your speaking, reading, and writing capabilities for each language listed.
- Disclose Relatives at the Mission: If you have family members working at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, include their names and departments. This may influence your application process.
- Citizenship Status: Clearly indicate if you are a U.S. citizen and provide necessary documentation, such as travel orders or relevant forms. This step is essential for determining eligibility.
- Provide Truthful Information: Ensure that all information provided is accurate and true. Misrepresentations may lead to disqualification or termination after hiring.
- Sign the Declaration: All applicants must read and agree to the declaration statement, certifying the truthfulness of the information. This agreement should not be overlooked.
Taking the time to thoroughly complete the DS-174 will improve your chances in the hiring process. Each section contributes significantly to the assessment of your qualifications and fit for the position.