Finally, the Family Liaison Office has negotiated bilateral work agreements with more than 77 countries. These agreements allow dependents of U.S. employees stationed abroad to seek employment on the local economy. In addition to the bilateral work agreements that have been formally concluded, the Family Liaison Office has negotiated de facto agreements with many additional countries. These agreements allow dependents to work on the local economy, subject to certain restrictions. Tandem Couples Foreign Service Specialists frequently marry other Foreign Service employees.
Every effort is made to assign both members of a tandem couple to the same post at the same time.
At times, however, members of a tandem couple may be assigned to separate posts. The Foreign Service strives to assist parents to meet the educational needs of their children, both financially and with advice and information about schools and educational programs. The Department of State aids approximately 175 American-sponsored schools around the world, which compare favorably with most schools in the United States. At posts without American-sponsored schools, local schools can often provide a good education for American children. The Department, through its Office of Overseas Schools, maintains detailed summaries of the quality of education provided at about 450 elementary and secondary schools overseas.